Did you know that maritime vessels account for 40% of U.S. international trade value?
As a small business, you want to reach as many customers as possible. But when it comes to international shipping, the process can be complex and confusing.
You don’t want your business to miss out on potential sales due to a lack of understanding about how international shipping works. And you certainly don’t want any delays or extra costs that come with not knowing what you need for successful international shipments.
That’s why we’ve created this complete shipping guide on everything you need to know about international shipping for small businesses – so that you can start selling your products around the world without any hassle!
Keep reading for our top international shipping tips!
Insurance
With insurance, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your items are protected in the event of any unforeseen circumstances. Whether you’re a small business owner or an individual sending out personal items, insurance is an absolute must when it comes to shipping internationally.
Don’t take any chances when it comes to your precious cargo – get insurance and rest easy knowing that you’re covered.
Tax and Duties
Shipping products to different countries can be a tricky task, especially if you’re not familiar with customs regulations. To ensure that your goods arrive at their destination smoothly, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the taxes, duties, and other associated fees for each country you plan on shipping to.
Don’t overlook these important aspects, as they could prove costly to you in the long run. By adhering to these regulations, you’ll be able to successfully navigate any challenges that may arise during the shipping process and ensure your goods arrive in perfect condition.
Packaging
Packaging is very important for things that you ship. It will help make sure it gets to the right place safely. Especially when shipping to another country, packaging can keep your items safe during their trip.
But with the right packaging materials, you can be sure that your goods arrive safely and securely, no matter where they’re headed. From durable boxes and protectively padded envelopes to custom packing materials designed specifically for your needs, the right packaging can make all the difference in the world when it comes to shipping your goods around the globe.
Tracking
Businesses used to not tell customers what was happening with their orders. Now, businesses use technology to track orders. This lets customers know where their package is. It also helps businesses and customers trust each other more.
A tracking system helps businesses know where their packages and shipments are. Customers can use it to see where their order is, track the package, and get notifications about when it will arrive.
Consider investing in a tracking system to streamline your shipping processes and give your customers peace of mind.
Understand Customs Regulations
International shipping can be hard to understand. You must research the customs regulations of the country you want to ship your product. The rules will depend on what type of product you are shipping and which country it is going to.
You should know the rules and laws about shipping items. This will help make sure your shipment is allowed in the area it’s going to. Knowing the rules can also stop you from having any extra fees or making it take longer than expected.
Before you send your products, find out the rules for shipping them. That way you can get them to where they need to go quickly and easily.
Streamline Order Processing
Order processing is a critical aspect of any business, but it can be time-consuming and tedious. Luckily, with the right tools, this process can be streamlined and much more efficient. By using order processing software, businesses can easily manage everything from order fulfillment to international shipments.
This software automates many of the steps involved in processing orders, reducing errors and saving time. With just a few clicks, orders can be processed, and customers can receive their products quickly and accurately. This not only saves time but also improves customer satisfaction, ensuring repeat business.
Offer Transparency
Transparency is key when it comes to international shipments. Customers want to know the cost and estimated delivery time upfront so they can plan accordingly. It can be frustrating to receive unexpected fees or have a package delayed without any explanation.
Businesses can make customers trust them by being honest. They should tell customers how long it will take for their order to arrive. This depends on where the item is going. That way, everything is clear and customers know what to expect.
Being honest and clear with customers will help them and the business. People will trust the business more, so they will stay loyal customers.
Accelerate Growth
Expanding your business is an exciting prospect, but it can also be a daunting one. However, with international shipping, the world is your oyster. Not only does it afford you the potential to reach hundreds, if not thousands, of new customers, but it also allows you to build meaningful relationships with those very same people.
And as we all know, a business is nothing without its customers. So why not leap and accelerate your business growth with international shipping? With the right strategy in place, the sky is the limit.
Add International Shipping to Your Business
International shipping is a great way to maximize your reach online and expand your small business. With the right strategy, tools, and support, you can make global expansion an achievable goal for any business.
At 1021 SunRise we specialize in helping small businesses grow their international presence. We offer end-to-end solutions that cover everything from consulting services to logistics management so that you have peace of mind when it comes to managing overseas customers or suppliers.
Contact us today if you’re ready to take your business global!