Taking your e-commerce business across borders? More and more entrepreneurs see international expansion as the opportunity for growth. And with good reason: cross-border e-commerce accounts for over 30% of all online sales worldwide – and that number keeps growing.
However, successful international shipping requires more than just offering worldwide delivery. Which markets offer the most potential? How do you ensure smooth logistics, including customs and returns? And how do you provide international customers with the same seamless shopping experience as your local buyers?
In this article, you’ll discover how to develop a robust strategy for international shipping. From market selection to logistics optimization, we’ll show you how to get started right away.
Step 1: Choose the right international market.
International shipping offers enormous growth opportunities. However, a successful expansion starts with a smart market selection. Not every country is the right fit for your business. Therefore, research where the highest demand lies, which countries have manageable regulations, and how you can guarantee a smooth customer experience.
Research where your products are in demand.
Start by analyzing search behavior and market trends. With tools like Google Trends and Semrush Market Explorer, you can immediately see where your product category is popular and whether there is growing interest. Also, take a look at the local competition. Are there already many established players, or is there an opportunity for you to stand out? Purchasing power and online consumer behavior also play a role: in some countries, customers spend more per order than in others. Additionally, expected delivery times can vary significantly.
By thoroughly researching these factors in advance, you’ll know exactly where your best opportunities lie.
How to avoid issues with customs and VAT.
Starting within the EU? Then you benefit from the free movement of goods. You only need to consider VAT regulations. For countries outside the EU, stricter rules apply regarding customs and import duties. Popular markets like the US and the UK have threshold amounts; VAT is only charged after a certain turnover.
When shipping outside the EU, you will encounter customs procedures. Each country has its own regulations concerning import duties and restrictions. An incorrectly completed customs declaration? You risk delays, extra costs, or rejected packages.
Avoid issues by correctly classifying and documenting your goods. Ensure you have a complete commercial invoice with detailed product information and the HS code (Harmonized System Code). Customs authorities worldwide use this code to determine the correct import duties.
Tip: With MyParcel, you automatically generate the correct documents for every international shipment. This way, you’ll never get stuck with customs paperwork, and your packages can cross the border smoothly.
Step 2: Align your international strategy with the customer.
A common mistake in international expansion is ignoring local buying habits. What works in the Netherlands doesn’t necessarily apply to Germany or France. Payment preferences, delivery time expectations, and service needs vary by country. By responding to these differences strategically, you make it easy for your international customers to shop with you.
Build trust with the right payment methods.
Each country has its own preferred payment methods. In the Netherlands, iDEAL is popular, while in Germany, consumers are more likely to trust PayPal or invoice payments. French customers, on the other hand, prefer credit cards and PayPal. By offering these local options, you remove a significant barrier for your international customers.
Choose shippers your customers trust.
What’s standard in the Netherlands, such as next-day delivery, isn’t always the norm in other countries. Some markets prefer flexibility over speed. Therefore, tailor your delivery options to what is locally customary.
With MyParcel’s multicarrier solution, you gain access to a network of reputable carriers, such as PostNL, DHL, DPD, and UPS. This way, you can always meet local preference – whether it’s popular pickup points or preferred delivery services. Your customers receive a trusted delivery experience without you needing to partner with multiple carriers.
Speak Your Customer’s Language.
Want to present a professional image in every market? Using the local language is crucial. In fact, 39% of consumers prefer to read content in their native language. Even more compelling: 66% choose a product with information available in their mother tongue when given the option between similar items.
Customer service also plays an important role in this. 75% of customers are more likely to return if they receive support in their own language.
Step 3: Future-proof your logistics and returns management.
The right market selected? Check. International customer strategy in place? Check. Now it’s time to optimize your logistics. Efficient shipping and returns management will determine whether your international growth truly becomes profitable.
Smart shipping: Good for your customer and the environment.
In addition to speed and reliability, sustainability is becoming increasingly important in cross-border e-commerce. Customers want not only fast delivery but also the smallest possible ecological impact. Nearly half of shoppers consider sustainability when making an online purchase.
With the right choices in packaging and shipping methods, you can save costs and contribute to more sustainable logistics:
- Use eco-friendly packaging, such as recycled or compostable materials.
- Avoid shipping ‘air’ by optimizing box sizes.
- Offer green delivery options, such as delivery via electric vehicles or bicycle couriers in cities.
How to avoid high return costs.
Returns are part of e-commerce. The average return rate in the e-commerce sector ranges between 20% and 30%. Return shipments cost businesses an average of € 12.50 to € 20 per parcel. As a result, return costs can consume up to 35% of the gross margin per order.
With a clear return policy, you can keep returns manageable and improve customer satisfaction:
- Clear return conditions: state the return options on your website and specify who covers the costs.
- Local return addresses: in some countries, it is common for customers to drop off their returns at a local distribution point instead of paying high international shipping costs.
- Return data analysis: by understanding the reasons behind returns, you can make improvements to your offerings or product descriptions. MyParcel offers smart return solutions, such as a branded return page and automated return processing. Additionally, with MyAnalytics, you can easily analyze shipping and return data. This gives you, as an entrepreneur, more control over return flows.
How to start shipping internationally tomorrow.
Ready to take your business across borders? With the right approach, you can make international shipping profitable right away. Here are the key steps:
- Choose a market that suits you by analyzing search behavior, competition, and regulations;
- Adapt your shop to local preferences; from payment methods to delivery options;
- Ensure efficient logistics and returns tailored to the market.
Start growing across borders today. MyParcel supports you every step of the way, from automatic customs documents to local return solutions.
Ready for the next step? We’d love to show you how MyParcel can streamline your international shipments. Request a personalized quote today.