International Shipping: How to Expand Your Business Globally

Expanding your business internationally is an exciting opportunity, but shipping products across borders comes with unique challenges. From customs regulations to shipping costs, getting it right can make the difference between happy global customers and logistical nightmares.

In this guide, we’ll break down how to master international shipping, reduce costs, and ensure smooth deliveries—so you can grow your business worldwide with confidence.

Why Go Global? The Benefits of International Shipping

Before diving into logistics, let’s look at why expanding internationally is worth it:

✔ Larger Customer Base – Tap into new markets and increase sales.
✔ Higher Revenue Potential – Some countries have less competition or higher demand for niche products.
✔ Brand Authority – Being globally available boosts credibility.
✔ Diversification – Reduce reliance on a single market.

But to succeed, you need a smart shipping strategy.

Key Challenges of International Shipping (And How to Solve Them)

1. High Shipping Costs

International shipping can be expensive, but there are ways to reduce costs:

• Negotiate rates with carriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS).
• Use regional fulfilment centres (like Prolog Fulfilment) to cut down on long-distance shipping.
• Offer tiered shipping options (e.g., standard vs. express).

2. Customs & Duties

Unexpected fees frustrate customers. Avoid surprises by:

• Clearly displaying potential duties at checkout.
• Using Incoterms (e.g., DDP – Delivered Duty Paid) to clarify who pays taxes.
• Providing accurate HS codes to prevent customs delays.

3. Long Delivery Times

Slow shipping = lost customers. Solutions:

• Partner with local fulfilment centres (e.g., store stock in the EU or US for faster delivery).
• Offer tracked shipping to manage customer expectations.
• Use express services for premium customers.

4. Returns & Customer Service

Handling international returns is tricky. Best practices:

• Set clear return policies (who covers costs?).
• Use a local returns hub (like Prolog’s UK/EU warehouses) to streamline the process.
• Offer refunds or replacements instead of returns where possible.

How to Choose the Right International Shipping Strategy

Option 1: Direct Shipping from Your Country

• Pros: Simple, no need for overseas warehouses.
• Cons: Expensive, slow, higher risk of customs issues.
• Best for: Small businesses testing new markets.

Option 2: Fulfilment Centres Abroad (3PL Partnerships)

• Pros: Faster delivery, lower costs, better customer experience.
• Cons: Requires inventory management in multiple locations.
• Best for: Scaling brands with steady international demand.

(Prolog Fulfilment offers international warehousing & shipping solutions, helping you store stock closer to customers for faster, cheaper deliveries.)

Option 3: Dropshipping (Supplier Direct Shipping)

• Pros: No upfront inventory costs.
• Cons: Less control over shipping times and quality.
• Best for: Businesses with reliable overseas suppliers.

Top Tips for Successful International Shipping

1. Research Your Target Markets – Some countries have strict import rules (e.g., Australia bans certain foods).
2. Optimise Packaging – Lightweight, sturdy boxes reduce costs.
3. Automate Customs Docs – Use tools like ShipStation or Prolog’s integrated software to generate labels.
4. Offer Local Payment Methods – Not everyone uses PayPal (consider Alipay, Klarna, etc.).
5. Monitor Performance – Track delivery times, complaints, and adjust as needed.

How Prolog Fulfilment Can Help

Expanding globally is easier with the right partner. Prolog Fulfilment provides:
✔ International warehousing (UK, EU & beyond).
✔ Customs expertise to avoid delays.
✔ Multi-carrier shipping options for the best rates.
✔ Real-time tracking for you and your customers.

Whether you’re shipping to Europe, the US, or Asia, we handle the logistics so you can focus on growth.

Final Thoughts

International shipping doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right strategy—whether it’s using fulfilment centres, optimising customs paperwork, or negotiating better rates—you can unlock huge growth potential.