I'm an ECA wanting to sell my products internationally. How do I determine how much to charge for shipping to other countries that is fair to both me and my customers?
Shipping internationally is one of the major concerns for all ECAs because it raises these issues:-
a). The overall prices of the product increases with shipment to various overseas destinations
b). Shipping costs (high) deter buyers especially if the ECA is outside their geographical region
c). The above two has a negative impact on the sales of an ECA.
It is therefore advisable to first check out the shipping charges that are levied for various international locations. Once you have this, you will be able to judge whether it is financially prudent to ship at international levels or keep it local. I do not see any point and neither will your buyers accept to pay a higher shipping cost than the value of the product. It is also not feasible to disguise a high shipping charge into the cost of the product as Free Shipping Worldwide - it is possible to detect this and you may find that your buyers will feel cheated if this is what you intend doing.
You may need to include a clause for additional shipping charges to other international destinations according to what the courier or other postal service will charge you to ship your products. It would not make financial sense to eat on your profit and reduce the shipping charge for the buyer just so that you can ship internationally. However, you can also keep your options open and accept enquiries for international business - levy the shipment charge and forward a quote to interested buyers provided the product in question justifies paying that high shipping charge.
Find a balance between the product you are selling, the shipment for international business and simultaneously try to retain your customers.
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Shipping internationally is one of the major concerns for all ECAs because it raises these issues:-
a). The overall prices of the product increases with shipment to various overseas destinations
b). Shipping costs (high) deter buyers especially if the ECA is outside their geographical region
c). The above two has a negative impact on the sales of an ECA.
It is therefore advisable to first check out the shipping charges that are levied for various international locations. ...more
