Everybody says, 'save money on shipping.' But if you have ever attempted shipping a product to an international destination, you would have likely encountered at least one 'jaw dropping moment' because of the cost of shipping.
The world has gone flat. Global agreements have made it easy to get a product from one counter to another and the internet has given it visibility. Despite all this, international shipping remains out of reach for many due to its price tag.
But the good news is that you can outwit those expensive prices. Here are a collection of 10 pro tips, supported by real examples and facts, to assist you in saving big. And the most excellent part? You don't need to give up reliability!
So let's get started and make shipping between borders a whole lot less agonizing.
Before we dive into the savings, let's first understand why shipping overseas is so expensive. The major chunk is ofcourse the distance but there are other costs as well such as customs fees, fuel surcharges, and carrier handling charges.
So now let's reveal our 10 Expert Hacks to Reduce Shipping Costs
Sending multiple packages to the same area? The best way is to put them all into one shipment. This reduces customs charges and handling costs. Consider this as an equivalent to carpooling for your packages. Ofcourse, it requires more planning but it also helps you to reduce shipping costs.
Here's a tip: Lighter, smaller packages save money. So get rid of heavy fillers and large boxes and replace them with lean, custom-fit packaging. According to a 2023 Pitney Bowes study, reducing package weight by 10% can cut shipping by up to 15%.
Having knowledge of trade agreements can be a big flex! Trade agreements such as USMCA or EU-US agreements can eliminate or minimize duties. So do the research and check if your goods qualify. These agreements are like a coupon for customs charges as they help reduce shipping costs.
If you make regular shipments, then you are at the perfect position to negotiate carrier rates. Most companies will be more than happy to offer discounts if they know you have solid volume.
Not all carriers are created equal for all destinations. Check the network of the carrier and their reputation. A carrier with a good network in your destination country will result in preventing additional fees or delay.
Shipping during holidays or peak seasons is bound to drive up costs. So it's more efficient to plan ahead to ship during slower months when rates are lower. It helps to save money on shipping.
Prepayment of duties (through Delivered Duty Paid, or DDP) relieves you from the shocks of surprise costs of recipients, making returns and additional fees unnecessary. It's a win-win situation.
Store inventory in regional hubs or bonded warehouses helps you to postpone duties and ship locally. This in result helps to reduce expenses for high-volume companies.
Returns cost a bomb in global shipping. So, workout a way where your returns are minimum. You can achieve that by having accurate product descriptions, size charts, and quality inspections.
Custom regulations update frequently. It's important to stay informed to avoid fines or delay due to erroneous paperwork or prohibited items.
International shipping is of course costly but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. From streamlining packages to getting updated with regulations, these 10 tips can make a huge difference, whether you are a business owner or just sending a gift. Try a couple on your next shipment and you will surely end up saving right away.
If you are looking for international affordable courier services and for more savings for your international shipping requirements, get in touch with us! Atlantic International Express has been in the industry for years and knows how to make international shipping affordable for you!
Costs stem from long distances, customs fees, fuel surcharges, and carrier handling charges. These factors add up quickly, making global shipping pricier than domestic.
Combining multiple packages into one shipment reduces customs and handling fees, like carpooling for packages. This approach requires planning but significantly lowers per-package costs.
Smaller, lighter packages cut costs. Custom-fit packaging eliminates unnecessary weight and bulk.
Yes, agreements like USMCA or EU-US reduce duties. Research if your goods qualify for these savings. These agreements act like coupons, slashing customs-related expenses.
Select carriers with strong networks in your destination to avoid extra fees and delays. A reliable carrier ensures efficient delivery without hidden costs.
We offer affordable, tailored international shipping with expert tips to minimize costs. Contact us today! Our years of experience ensure cost-effective solutions for your needs.
