In preparation for the “Opportunities in Ecommerce & Social Media” presentation FastPivot’s Director of Social Media Communications, Jonathan Poston, delivered in Quito, Ecuador the other week for the Ministry of Production’s Technology Conference, we had the pleasure of interviewing Carlos E. Neira, Program Manager for DHL Express – Americas on “Global Shipping Logistics Considerations for ecommerce merchants.” Portions of that interview regarding “global shipping logistics considerations” are posted below in hopes that these international shipping tips may be useful to ecommerce merchants who are planning to extend their ecommerce business internationally. Thanks again for taking the time to share these insights Carlos.
FastPivot:
What considerations should ecommerce merchants keep in mind when shipping abroad?
Neira:
- Establishing credit, understanding exchange rates, setting market-appropriate pricing and related financial issues, and finding a reputable international logistics partner all key when  shipping abroad.
- General knowledge of the market and understanding of global terminology related to international trade can help you position your merchandise and your company for success.
- Fulfilling all Customs requirements and correctly completing all procedures can be especially difficult for those who are exporting for the first time. If you find the process too difficult to manage on your own, contract a customs broker who can guide you through the export process.
- As an ecommerce merchant it’s important to know about the tools that exist across international markets to facilitate foreign commerce. For example, the INCOTERMS serve to normalize the process of shipping and receiving merchandise. In addition, they are used to determine the costs of various international commercial transactions and establish -the responsibilities that both the exporter and the importer must assume.
- International logistics companies like DHL have the expertise to analyze your shipping needs with you and put you in touch with a trustworthy broker who knows your industry and can provide the specific experience and services your business needs. This will help to ensure that you realize your foreign commerce transactions in the simplest and most correct manner.
FastPivot:
What are some international shipping problems to avoid?
Neira:
- Failure to complete proper documentation or adhere to the rules regarding shipping to any country can cause considerable delays, so it is important to pay close attention to this aspect of your business.
- Inadvertently trying to export goods that are controlled or prohibited can cause long-term problems for your business.
- Goods that are packaged improperly can be delayed in transit, and poor packaging that does not conform to government requirements can cause your shipment to be returned to you.
- Make sure your shipping information and product descriptions are clear. Failure to do this can cause your shipment to be delayed or returned to you.
- Don’t describe the items you’re shipping by part number or catalog number.
- Avoid the use of acronyms that may be confusing or indecipherable to people outside your company or industry.
- Use words that describe the items completely and will be understandable in layman’s terms.
- Use a reputable international / logistics company to ship your merchandise abroad. These companies have the expertise and international reach to help you determine the best way to ship your product and can advise you on the best way for you to approach working with customs.
- Customs practices vary by country and can range from simple, straightforward procedures to confusing processes that change depending on your industry or the goods you are shipping. In some lands, you may find it easier to contract an expediter or customs broker.
As Neira points out, international shipping considerations and worldwide logistics for ecommerce merchants involves a whole set of complex issues that standard in-country shipping does not. Therefore we highly recommend that ecommerce merchants who are considering expanding internationally consult with the appropriate worldwide shipping logistics experts before getting started.
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