How to Make the Most of International Shipping
International shipping is an increasing trend in ecommerce. It helps your business connect with more customers. It can also help build trust with customers who may not be familiar with your brand. A well-planned strategy can aid you in making the most of international sales and avoid the pitfalls that many businesses face.
When Even Mix Ships Internationally, it's essential to be aware of your customers' expectations and be ready to meet them. According to a survey by the IPC, more than 62 percent of buyers from overseas want free shipping and 93 percent aren't likely to buy from a shop that doesn't provide this service.
Before you start shipping, determine the countries you want to target and the products you're planning to sell there. Then, get informed on the country-based rules and regulations that govern your goods' importation into each country, so you are able to determine if a certain country is appropriate for your business.
Once you've identified your country's' specific import requirements, you can start preparing the shipment. You need to pack the items properly so they will be able to survive the transit and arrive at the destination in one piece. This is a challenging procedure since you won't be able to inspect the item until it is removed from the country. It is crucial to follow packaging instructions and label your package properly.
Next, it's important to think about the cost of international shipping, so that you can inform your customers of any extra charges they might have to pay. This can be done by clearly laying out your shipping policy on your product pages and in your shopping cart, and in the checkout process.
You should make sure that your shipment is in compliance with all legal requirements. This includes determining the legal conditions of sale, such as Incoterms (International Commercial Terms), which describe where responsibility for shipping and delivery ends and who pays what costs, among other things.
When your goods arrive at the destination, you'll have to plan for customs clearance as well as transportation. Often, these processes may take several days.
Selecting the right carrier is an essential part of your international shipping plan and there are numerous options out there for shipping companies of all sizes. It is essential to choose a company that will meet your brand's needs, and provide exceptional customer service.
If your customers are concerned about the security of their packages while in transit, you may want to consider a freight forwarder that has an established and secure network as well as insurance. This will protect both your brand and customers from any potential liability while during transit.
A shipping company that offers tracking services is another way to reduce the risk of your merchandise being stolen. Many of these companies keep track of your package as it travels across the globe, which means you'll have a better idea of when your package will arrive at its destination.