Going global is ideal to grow your customer base and scale your business. Whether you are an established brand or new in the market, you certainly want to take your business to the next level and shipping globally is one of the best ways to expand. While many online sellers prioritise what to sell in the foreign market and which foreign market to target, understanding how to ship orders to the foreign market is equally crucial. Knowing the best way to deliver orders timely to your international customers will facilitate an efficient and profitable global business.
In this blog, we have shared how to ship packages internationally efficiently. You shall also learn the factors to consider while choosing a shipping partner to ensure a beneficial business.
Choose the Right Shipping Partner
Gathering information about the various international shipping terms and conditions associated with your target overseas market is necessary to ensure smooth shipping. Partnering with a shipping firm that knows how to ship internationally and is dedicated to ensuring compliance can help your business flourish in the global market. However, finding the right shipping partner requires thorough research and careful consideration.
Considerations Before Choosing an International Courier Partner
You must consider several factors while choosing an international courier partner because it will significantly impact your success in the international market. Here are some key considerations that can help you select the right courier partner for efficient international package shipping:
- Global Coverage
One of the first things you should check is whether your potential courier partner covers the regions you require shipping to. It is necessary to ensure that they can handle deliveries to all your target markets. This reduces delayed shipping and other complications.
- Goodwill in the Market
Choose a shipping company that has a good reputation and stronghold in the industry. Its team members must know how to ship a package internationally safely and hassle-free. Learn about your shortlisted company’s track record by reviewing its client list and checking its customer reviews. Collaborating with a company with a good reputation is necessary to ensure a smooth shipping process. It often translates to satisfied customers and repeat sales, thereby increasing your revenue.
- Shipping Cost
International shipping costs can burn a hole in your pocket. The shipping charges vary based on the shipping time; expedited shipping is faster and more expensive than standard shipping. Research well and look for shipping companies that offer services at competitive rates without compromising on quality. You may use multiple shipping partners if that helps save on freight costs.
- Delivery Options
Some customers want their orders delivered right away, while others are willing to wait. Offer your customers multiple shipping options to serve them better. Provide them choices to tradeoff between shipping speed and prices. This can play a crucial role in decreasing cart abandonment.
- Order Tracking
Most international carriers provide live order tracking to you and your customers in exchange for some additional charges. Opt for a carrier that offers real-time tracking to ensure transparency.
- Insurance Cover
Many shipping partners offer affordable insurance services. If you are worried that your package might get lost or damaged in transit, securing your parcel with an appropriate insurance cover is a good option. Ensure that the shipping company you choose offers adequate insurance coverage for your shipments.
- Knowledge about Customs and Other Regulations
Thorough knowledge of the customs duties, taxes, and other regulatory norms of different countries you plan to trade with is necessary. A knowledgeable and experienced shipping partner will simplify the complex customs process for you. Lack of knowledge in this arena can lead to delays, penalties, and even legal issues.
- Customer Support
A robust customer support system is crucial for the timely resolution of issues that may arise during the transition. Well-trained customer care executives can handle your queries, register your requests, and work on shipping and handling issues efficiently. This helps you manage your customer concerns better. A shipping partner that offers support through multiple channels, including email, phone, and chat, is a good choice.
Be Transparent About Your International Package Shipping Policy
Always be transparent about your international shipping policy. Communicate with your customers about the shipping cost and what it includes; unexpected or hidden costs on the checkout page will significantly influence their purchasing behaviour. Clearly communicate all your costs on the shipping policy page.
While shipping orders internationally, it is crucial to create and follow shipping policies strictly. Thus, map out your strategy regarding the shipping policy. The following are the points your shipping policy must cover:
- Courier Options – Understand the policies of your shipping partner and the services it offers – same-day or overnight deliveries, etc.
- Shipping Cost – Consider whether you want to offer free shipping to your customers. You should factor this while calculating your shipping costs.
- Shipping Time – Transparency is the key to online business. Your policy should clearly mention the time it will take for the package to reach your customers.
ShiprocketX: Your Shipping Partner In Going Global
Does Shiprocket deliver internationally? Yes, ShiprocketX, can ship your products to 220+ destinations globally at the lowest freight rates. Shipping international packages is challenging, but with ShiprocketX, you can make it easier by streamlining the process. You can choose between multiple courier partners and get maximum reach globally. You can also integrate your global sales channel easily. A unified tracking process lets you track your package and send live notifications to your buyers.
Conclusion
Expanding your business in the overseas market can be challenging. International package shipping may seem daunting if you do not have support from a reliable shipping partner. Thus, it is suggested to invest time in finding a shipping company that possesses expertise in the field. Considering the aforementioned points, including the cost involved, delivery options, the reputation of the company, its customer support staff, and order tracking efficiency is necessary to find a reliable partner.
