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Expanding your eCommerce business from Canada to international markets can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a tremendous opportunity for growth. As global eCommerce sales soar, embracing international shipping opens the door to new customer bases, increased revenue, and building a more resilient operation. However, navigating international shipping comes with challenges— customs regulations, logistics complexities, fluctuating shipping costs, and diverse consumer expectations.
The good news? With the right strategies, tools, and partners, expanding your shipping capabilities doesn’t have to be a headache. By optimizing your shipping processes, understanding international regulations, and selecting the best carriers and fulfillment options, you can smoothly transition from a local to a global business.
Here’s how to strategically scale your shipping operations to connect with customers worldwide:
Understanding the Basics of Cross-Border Shipping
Begin by familiarizing yourself with the fundamentals of international shipping. Knowing the ins and outs is crucial for a smooth transition. Start by understanding the regulations and requirements for shipping overseas, including customs regulations, tariffs, and taxes in different countries.
For Canadian businesses, starting with nearby markets can be a strategic move. Offering affordable, reliable shipping is instrumental in building a customer base in new regions.
Navigating Customs and Regulations
One of the most challenging aspects of international shipping is navigating customs and regulations. Each country has its own set of rules and requirements, and failing to comply can result in delays, fines, or even the seizure of your goods. Key documents you’ll need include a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a certificate of origin.
It’s also essential to understand the import duties and taxes that apply to your products. For example, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) provides resources for determining duty rates based on the Harmonized System (HS) code of your goods. Additionally, you may need an Import/Export Business Number from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
Choosing the Right Shipping Methods and Carriers
Selecting appropriate shipping methods and carriers is crucial. Different carriers offer various services, rates, and levels of reliability. It’s important to choose a carrier that provides end-to-end tracking and ensures timely delivery.
ClickShip’s trusted carrier network ensures that your international shipping is in good hands. By leveraging ClickShip’s platform, you can access discounted rates on domestic and international shipping services from the most trusted carriers in North America.
Optimizing Packaging and Documentation
Secure and proper packaging, along with accurate documentation is vital for protecting your goods during transit and your brand’s reputation. Use appropriate padding, sturdy boxes, and trusted packaging materials is crucial.
ClickShip’s Smart Packaging Technology and OneSKU, Multi-Box functionality can help you select the right packaging for your merchandise in real time, helping to provide the most optimized rates for all your shipments, both local and international.
Leveraging ClickShip's Tools for Seamless Global Shipping
ClickShip provides a suite of tools designed to streamline international shipping. From real-time tracking to advanced shipping rules, ClickShip equips you to manage your global shipping operations efficiently.
ClickShip’s platform integrates seamlessly with leading eCommerce platforms and online marketplaces, offering your customers access to discounted rates on parcel and pallet shipping from the most trusted carriers in North America, including real-time rates at checkout with select integrations!
Contact one of our shipping experts today and see what makes ClickShip the most complete eCommerce shipping platform the world over!
Written by Brandon Draga
Brandon Draga is a full-time content writer at Freightcom, the leading shipping solution for businesses in Canada. When Brandon is not writing content to help businesses with their shipping needs, he can be found at local skate parks or writing fantasy novels.
