Ship Internationally from India – The How to Guide
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Are you receiving orders from your global clients but are not able to deliver your products to them? Do you know the ways to ship internationally? We will help.
Do you know that eCommerce or online commerce accounts for 20.1% of the total retail sales globally? How has that become possible?
One of the primary reasons why eCommerce became popular is because online businesses have started providing free and fast shipping options.
As a result, more and more people, sitting from the comfort of their spaces, can easily find what they need online and order it.
Today, the world is a global village. Your online business must be reaching thousands, within your country and even abroad. In those cases, it becomes important to ship internationally.
However, we receive thousands of queries daily regarding the same. So, we thought of writing this post. Here, we are going to tell you in detail how to ship internationally from India. So, let’s proceed.
Stepwise Guide to Ship Internationally from India
The following are steps that you need to keep in consideration when you want to ship internationally from India:
1. Understand Your Shipping Requirements
Identify Your Market: First of all, you need to determine which countries you want to reach. Analyze your customer base and decide on your target markets.
Product Considerations: Moreover, make sure that your products are eligible for export and are not on any prohibited or restricted lists. This is essential to avoid delays in customs.
2. Choose the Right Shipping Carrier or Aggregator
Research Carriers: You need to find reliable international shipping providers known for their fast shipping options. Major carriers like DHL, FedEx, and Blue Dart are popular choices.
Consider Shipping Aggregators in India: These platforms, such as Zopoxo, allow you to compare rates, manage documentation, and track shipments. It is all from a single dashboard. Furthermore, they often negotiate discounted rates and have extensive coverage, making them ideal for small to medium businesses.
3. Understand International Shipping Regulations & Documentation
Customs Compliance: Be aware of the export regulations in India and import regulations in your destination countries. Each country has specific requirements that must be met and you should know about your target country.
Essential Documents: Next, you have to prepare key documents such as:
- Commercial Invoice: Details the transaction and product value.
- Packing List: Lists the quantity, dimensions, and weight of the products.
- Certificate of Origin: Indicates where the product was manufactured.
- Export Declaration and Customs Forms: These are critical for clearing customs on both ends.
4. Packaging and Labeling for International Shipments
Secure Packaging: Use high-quality, sturdy packaging materials to protect your products during transit. Here, you can consider bubble wrap or other customized packaging solutions.
Accurate Labeling: Clearly print the sender’s and recipient’s addresses, contact numbers, and any handling instructions. Proper labeling helps in smooth customs clearance and delivery.
5. Book Your Shipment and Get a Quote
Online Tools and API Integration: Use courier aggregator platforms or the websites of major carriers to obtain instant quotes. Many shipping aggregators offer user-friendly interfaces that integrate with your eCommerce platform.
Compare Options: When you want to ship internationally, evaluate cost, delivery timelines, and additional services, like tracking, to select the best option for your needs.
6. Track Your Shipment for Timely Delivery
Real-Time Tracking: Most carriers and shipping aggregators provide tracking numbers that allow you to monitor your shipment’s progress. This is crucial for managing any delays and ensuring fast shipping.
Notifications: Set up email or SMS alerts to stay informed at each step of the delivery process.
7. Handle Customs Clearance and Duties
Customs Brokerage: If needed, work with a customs broker to ensure that all documentation is correct and that duties and taxes are paid promptly.
Prepare for Additional Charges: Inform your international customers whether duties, taxes, or fees will be paid by the sender (Delivery Duty Paid) or by the receiver (Delivery Duty Unpaid).
8. Final Delivery and Customer Support
Local Delivery Coordination: Once cleared, the shipment is handed over to local carriers for final delivery. Also, make sure your chosen provider has reliable local partners.
After-Sales Service: Provide support for returns and exchanges, and gather feedback to continually improve your international shipping process.
Wrapping Up
Shipping internationally from India does not have to be challenging.
By following this stepwise guide, you can ensure that your products are delivered safely and efficiently to customers worldwide.
Remember, global expansion is within your reach. Equip your online business with the right tools and partners, and ship internationally today!