
Why is International E-commerce in the Middle East Booming?
With online sales reaching $80 billion last year and an overall growth rate of 11% forecast by 2022, it’s clear to see that e-commerce busin…
e-commerceBusiness is booming and your brand’s target customers aren’t just in your backyard anymore — now they’re all around the world. In fact, measures have been taken beginning early this year to ban geoblocking across the EU. This means that consumers will have the ability to shop online without being blocked or rerouted to another site because of nationality or place of residence.
However, in today’s global shipping market, purchasing items internationally can be expensive and confusing. The added shipping costs, language barriers, and currency conversions can quickly discourage shoppers from considering a purchase from the other side of the world. Cross-border shoppers also worry about the security of their payments, with preferred payment methods differing from country to country.
It’s essential for etailers to provide the right international shipping solution to support these customers. Including additional features such as preferred and secure payment methods, local language and currency, and global package tracking can make cross-border shoppers feel right at home. A more familiar and comfortable checkout experience will encourage your international customers to return.
When customers order their products with sufficient time for delivery, most expect that they will be able to choose from a variety of shipping options, including free or reduced alternatives that deliver within a reasonable amount of time. Since the etailer needs to cover the cost of shipping either way, free delivery options are more commonly offered on domestic orders. However, it is important to offer both domestic and international shoppers some form of shipping savings when they are willing to wait a little longer for their package.
Consumers prefer to see the status of their packages after making an online purchase. According to the latest IPC cross-border e-commerce shopper survey, 61 percent of consumers had tracking available on their purchases, but still consider this a pain point. Providing your customers with accurate and timely tracking information is key to customer satisfaction. Online shoppers, especially those ordering from international sellers, want detail on where their package is throughout the entire shipping process. By offering an efficient and user-friendly package tracking system that provides shoppers with access to tracking from shipment through delivery, etailers can quickly increase customer satisfaction. Customers will shop with confidence, knowing exactly where their packages are and when they will be delivered.
Before feeling confident about completing a purchase online, shoppers want to know that they have the option to make a return if need be. Providing a clear and upfront explanation of how your business handles returns will help prevent misunderstandings that could cost you repeat customers. Include pertinent information on your e-commerce site such as how shoppers can contact you about a return, whether they can expect to receive a refund or a credit, and whether or not they need to pay for the return shipping. For international customers, offering a simplified, global returns process will significantly increase your chances of gaining repeat business.
Enquire about our e-commerce solutions to discover how Asendia can help your business grow globally.
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