International shipping
If you want to expand your e-commerce business, international trucking is a great next step. But you need to figure out how to ship internationally.
To properly ship internationally, you need a business strategy. However, you don’t need to know everything about shipping. But you need to understand the options available. And find an approach that works over and over again.
There are many reasons for not being able to ship internationally right now. Maybe you are just starting to see this as an option. Or maybe you’ve even tried it once or twice. But chose to stick with your local or domestic market.
Building an international delivery strategy
Although it is difficult to give an exhaustive list of best practices applicable to each business, there are several central solutions that you will need to consider for your international delivery strategy .
- Start small and close.
By holding cargo near your home, you can set realistic expectations for customers regarding delivery times and rates. From small and close range, you can also feel what you need to expand your supply.
- Track current demand.
Check your store’s traffic analytics and see which markets or countries are already visiting your online store. You can also evaluate interest by direct customer requests for sale in their market. Repeated visits or high traffic may show interest in your products or offers.
- The main languages of any market for expansion.
Communication is important when working with clients. If you are fluent in several languages, consider visiting countries that speak these languages first. If you speak only one language, find other countries or markets where this language stands out.
- Identify non-domestic markets that are suitable for business.
Are there markets around the world that you think are best for your business? Some research may be required here. Immerse yourself in the consumer trends and tastes of these markets. An item that is a holiday gift in the United States may mean something else, such as in South Korea.
Now you need to think about what to send. You can offer your entire product line. However, before you start shipping around the world, think about these aspects of your products and your business.
Light and small items will be more cost-effective for transportation and easier to pack.
The longer the product, the better. Delivery of products that break easily can increase the likelihood of unsatisfactory delivery. If you decide to ship them, invest in strong packaging!
Read country’s rules and regulations
Once you have an idea of which regions provide the most immediate capabilities and which products you will ship, it’s time to check the national rules and regulations.
Some countries prohibit items directly; others may limit them. Being informed about the existing rules and regulations of the transportation can ensure uninterrupted delivery.
Check and see if any of your products — or components of your products — are listed as “dangerous goods” when shipped. In general, a “hazardous product” is defined as a product that could be harmful in transit. The best place for this information is the government website.
Using multiple carriers is one way to save on shipping costs.
Mail carriers are often cheaper, but may work more slowly and may not offer many options for packet types and speeds. Express operators are faster and provide more service options, such as insurance, but can cost more.
EVEREST PROFI – international shipping .