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Cross Border Shipping: A Masterclass in Freight Solutions

Phuc Le
September 14, 2023

In 2022, the value of goods traded between the United States, Canada, and Mexico was over $130 billion, which was 20% more than in 2021. This shows how important it is to trade across borders to connect what's made with what's used.

However, shipping things across borders isn't always easy. There can be problems with knowing where things are, finding enough space to transport them, and dealing with changes in demand during different times of the year. That's why many companies, big and small, work with experts who specialize in helping things move smoothly across borders. Whether a company ships a lot or just a little, it's a good idea to work with a company that can make the process easier. This article will give you tips on how to make cross-border shipping in North America work better for you, like making your operations smoother and keeping track of your shipments in real-time.

WHAT IS CROSS BORDER?

WHAT IS CROSS BORDER?

Cross border logistics is a critical driver of our economy, connecting consumers, manufacturers, and factories. While it comes with challenges, data and metrics demonstrate the importance of international trade and the benefits of partnering with experts in the field to overcome logistical obstacles. This article aims to provide guidance on optimizing cross-border shipping based on these insights and real-time tracking of supply chains.

1. Consumer Access: Cross-border logistics ensures that consumers can enjoy a wide variety of products. For example, in the United States, about 97% of all clothing and shoes are imported. This means that most of the clothes and shoes we buy come from other countries, demonstrating how international trade connects us to the products we love.

2. Manufacturing Needs: Manufacturers rely on cross-border logistics to obtain the materials necessary for production. In the automotive industry, for instance, over 37% of auto parts used in the United States are imported from Mexico and Canada. This data shows how international supply chains are crucial for manufacturing.

3. Timely Deliveries: Factories depend on timely deliveries of essential materials to maintain smooth operations. The electronics industry is a prime example, with more than 30% of electronics components being imported from other countries. This illustrates the importance of cross-border logistics in ensuring the steady flow of materials.

Now, let's dive into the challenges of cross border logistics and how they impact the industry.

1. Visibility: According to industry research, approximately 40% of logistics professionals consider a lack of visibility into their supply chains as a significant challenge. This lack of visibility can lead to delays and inefficiencies in cross-border shipments.

2. Capacity Sourcing: Data from the American Trucking Associations shows that there's often a shortage of available trucks for cross-border shipments, especially during peak seasons. This scarcity of capacity can result in delays and increased costs.

3. Market Seasonality: The demand for goods can vary seasonally. For example, during the holiday season, there's typically a surge in cross-border shipments. This seasonality can strain logistics operations and lead to bottlenecks.

To address these challenges, many businesses, both large and small, seek the expertise of transportation service providers specializing in cross-border logistics. Research by Armstrong & Associates indicates that companies that partner with such specialists can reduce transportation costs by an average of 12%. These specialists offer value-added services that help streamline cross-border supply chains.

SELECTING THE IDEAL CROSS BORDER FREIGHT SERVICE PROVIDER

SELECTING THE IDEAL CROSS BORDER FREIGHT SERVICE PROVIDER

Selecting the ideal cross border freight provider is a critical decision for shippers, as it directly impacts the efficiency and success of their cross border supply chains. The complexity of international shipping demands careful consideration of various factors. Here, we delve into the crucial aspects to ponder and explore how a dependable provider:

1. Unique Operational Requirements: Every shipper has distinct operational needs for their cross border shipments. Questions abound, such as whether transloading is required, if door-to-door shipping is preferable, or whether custom brokerage services are in place. It's essential to find a provider that can accommodate these specific requirements. According to industry data, 60% of cross border shippers require transloading services to optimize their supply chains. Moreover, nearly 80% of cross border shipments have a preference for door-to-door delivery. To ensure seamless operations, it's paramount to partner with a provider capable of accommodating such unique requirements.

2. Comprehensive Services: When seeking a cross-border freight provider, shipping managers look for a wide range of services to meet customer orders effectively. These services may include transloading, intermodal options, warehouse and distribution, supply chain optimization, full truckload (FTL) and less than truckload (LTL) solutions, varied equipment choices, expedited shipping, on-demand capacity, routing guides, and round-the-clock customer support. A comprehensive survey reveals that 72% of shipping managers prioritize real-time visibility in their cross border supply chains. This is indicative of the growing need for transparency and tracking capabilities. Additionally, over 85% of shippers require intermodal transportation options to optimize their logistics operations.

3. Vetted Carrier Networks: Experienced cross border freight providers have established extensive carrier networks to facilitate international trade into Mexico and Canada. This involves a rigorous vetting process to ensure carriers have qualified drivers and suitable equipment. Compliance with safety standards and regulations is paramount, especially for Mexican carriers entering the United States. Metrics show that over 85% of shippers consider carrier qualification, such as driver credentials and equipment suitability, as a top priority.

4. On-Demand Capacity and Insurance Protection: RFlexibility in capacity is crucial for cross border operations. A survey among shipping managers reveals that 76% value on-demand capacity for their cross border freight, emphasizing the need for providers capable of accommodating fluctuating shipping volumes. Additionally, data shows that cargo insurance costs typically range from 2% to 3% of the cargo value, underlining the importance of insurance protection. 

5. Technology-Driven Solutions:As technology reshapes logistics, shipping managers increasingly seek tech-driven solutions. According to industry reports, 80% of cross border shippers emphasize the importance of real-time visibility in their operations. Innovative tracking software, ensures that shippers receive live updates on all cross border loads. Furthermore, metrics demonstrate that automation reduces manual data entry, allowing companies to allocate resources more efficiently.

6. Enterprise Integration: Traditionally, data collection in cross border logistics has been a labor-intensive process. Metrics reveal that manual data entry consumes up to 20% of operational resources, highlighting the need for automation. A majority of shippers (71%) prioritize automation and streamlined data collection, recognizing the potential for cost savings and operational improvements.

7. Real-Time Visibility: One of the most significant challenges for North American shippers in cross border freight is real-time visibility. Tracking shipments across borders can be challenging, with manual check calls being the norm. 

ESSENTIAL STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL CROSS BORDER ECOMMERCE

ESSENTIAL STRATEGIES FOR SUCCESSFUL CROSS BORDER ECOMMERCE

Before embarking on the journey of shipping products internationally to a global customer base, it's vital to ensure your business is fully prepared. Shipping across borders can be complex, but by implementing these best practices, you can navigate the challenges effectively:

1. Identify Your Target Market:

Begin by pinpointing the geographical locations of your potential customers. Analyze where your current customer base is predominantly located. Research indicates that, on average, only 30% of global online shoppers buy from cross border eCommerce sites. To make informed decisions, it's crucial to determine where your customers are predominantly located. For instance, if your business is primarily catering to customers in a specific region, such as Texas and New Mexico in the U.S., your focus may not be on cross border efforts. However, if you have a significant customer base in another country, like Spain, it's crucial to enable cross border transactions for those customers. 

2. Select Target Countries:

Determine whether you want to expand your shipping globally or focus on select countries. Data suggests that 45% of global cross border eCommerce sales go to just six countries: the United States, China, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia, and Germany. The decision should align with your customer distribution. If you choose to ship globally, be aware of the costs associated with international shipping, as each country has distinct shipment costs and restrictions. Careful consideration of these factors is essential before allowing international orders on your site.

3. Evaluate Export and Delivery Taxes:

The assessment of export and delivery taxes is crucial. Metrics reveal that customs duties can add 20% or more to the cost of imported goods in some countries. For instance, eCommerce sellers in the United States typically won't encounter U.S. export regulations or taxes for B2C international sales. However, you should be aware of the de minimis value limits per shipment or sale in the receiving country, as orders above this limit may incur delivery duties. Understanding the export and import taxes associated with cross border shipping is essential, and you should determine whether your business and customers are willing to bear these additional charges.

4. Adhere to Local Regulations:

Compliance with local laws and regulations in the countries where you intend to sell is imperative. Different countries have varying product regulations and restrictions. Commonly restricted or regulated product categories include cosmetics, food and alcohol, medical and safety products, electronics, tobacco, and clothing. It's vital to research and understand the product restrictions in your destination country before accepting orders and shipping them.

5. Localize Your Online Store:

Data-driven localization is essential for enhancing customer engagement and sales. Metrics show that localized content and language adaptation can increase conversion rates by up to 70%. Furthermore, studies indicate that 55% of consumers prefer to shop in their native language. To cater to diverse markets, it's imperative to provide region-specific versions of your site with culturally relevant content, images, and prices. Data also reveals that offering local payment methods can boost sales by up to 12%, highlighting the importance of accommodating preferred payment options.

Expanding into international markets presents significant growth opportunities for your business, but it also comes with unique challenges. To succeed in cross border eCommerce, take the time to understand the specific needs and regulations of each country you plan to serve. By adhering to best practices, such as localizing your online store, staying compliant with international laws, and carefully considering extra international delivery costs, your business will be well-prepared to thrive in the global marketplace.

More Insights

September 8, 2023

Unlocking Customer Potential Experiences With LCL Logistics

Adapting to shifting consumer buying behaviors in today's disruptive supply chain environment requires a level of flexibility that many businesses currently lack. However, this adaptability can be attained through the utilization of online LCL Logistics booking. Those who embrace LCL logistics to elevate the customer experience will not only survive but thrive in this ever-changing terrain. Customer experience encompasses every aspect of customer interaction with a brand, spanning from initial engagement to post-purchase support. It plays a pivotal role in driving repeat business and long-term success. However, despite earnest efforts, brand loyalty is on the decline. Empowered by heightened expectations, evolving preferences, and the convenience of omnichannel shopping, consumers today are more discerning and less loyal than ever before. In this dynamic landscape, businesses must place customer-centric strategies at the forefront of their priorities.

WHAT IS LCL LOGISTICS?

WHAT IS LCL LOGISTICS? LCL (Less-than-Container Load) logistics refers to a shipping and logistics service that involves combining multiple smaller shipments from different shippers into a single container for transportation. This approach is typically used when individual shipments are not large enough to fill an entire shipping container. HOW LCL LOGISTICS SERVICES ENHANCE THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Using LCL (Less-than-Container Load) logistics services can improve the customer experience in several ways:
  • Cost Savings Passed to Customers: LCL shipping allows businesses to save on shipping costs, as they only pay for the space they use within a container. This cost efficiency can be passed on to customers through lower shipping fees or more competitive product pricing, enhancing the overall value proposition. Data from a study by Statista indicates that shipping costs are a significant factor influencing online purchase decisions for 86% of online shoppers. Lower shipping costs achieved through LCL logistics can directly improve the customer experience.
  • Global Expansion: LCL logistics facilitates international shipping, enabling businesses to expand their market reach. When businesses can reach a broader customer base, it can lead to increased sales opportunities and access to new markets, ultimately benefiting the customer. The World Trade Organization (WTO) reports that cross-border e-commerce is growing at an average rate of 13-15% annually, showcasing the importance of global access. LCL logistics facilitates this expansion, giving customers access to a broader range of products.
  • Faster Delivery Time: By strategically positioning inventory in warehouses closer to customers, LCL logistics can lead to faster and more efficient order fulfillment. Customers receive their orders more quickly, contributing to a positive shopping experience. According to a survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF), 47% of consumers expect delivery within two days. LCL logistics, with its streamlined processes, can significantly contribute to meeting or exceeding these expectations.
  • Reduced Stockouts: Proper inventory management, made possible by LCL logistics, reduces the likelihood of stockouts. When customers can consistently find the products they want in stock, it enhances their trust in the brand and encourages repeat purchases. The Harvard Business Review highlights that stockouts can result in a sales loss of up to 10% and customer dissatisfaction. Effective inventory management, a hallmark of LCL logistics, helps prevent these losses.
HOW LCL LOGISTICS SERVICES ENHANCE THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
  • Real-time Shipment Tracking: LCL logistics providers often offer robust tracking and transparency features. Customers can track their shipments in real-time and receive accurate delivery estimates, reducing uncertainty and frustration. A survey by Convey reveals that 98% of consumers consider shipment tracking important, and 84% expect accurate, real-time updates.
  • Flexibility During Peaks: LCL logistics support businesses to peak seasons or sales events, businesses can scale their shipping needs more effectively. During the 2020 holiday season, Deloitte reported a 25-35% increase in e-commerce sales. LCL logistics' flexibility in scaling operations can help businesses cope with such demand spikes, ensuring timely deliveries and satisfied customers.
  • Responsive Customer Support: Many customers today are environmentally conscious. LCL logistics can be more environmentally friendly, as it optimizes container space and reduces the need for oversized shipments. This commitment to sustainability can resonate with eco-conscious consumers.
  • Improved Communication: LCL logistics providers often offer better communication channels for addressing customer inquiries and issues related to shipping. This results in quicker problem resolution and better customer satisfaction.
A COMPARE TABLE ABOUT LCL VS FCL A COMPARE TABLE ABOUT LCL VS FCL The table provides a comprehensive comparison between LCL (Less-than-Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) shipping methods, two fundamental approaches used in logistics and cargo transportation. These methods differ significantly in terms of container ownership, cost structures, shipping volumes, and more, each offering distinct advantages and trade-offs. LCL shipping is advantageous for businesses with smaller shipments, as it allows multiple shippers to share a container, reducing costs. It offers flexibility in accommodating varied cargo sizes and types, making it suitable for businesses with diverse product ranges. However, LCL shipping may involve transshipment and longer transit times due to the need for consolidation and deconsolidation at multiple ports, potentially leading to a slightly higher risk of cargo damage. It is particularly useful for companies seeking cost-effective solutions and targeting multiple markets. Conversely, FCL shipping involves exclusive use of an entire container, making it ideal for high-volume shipments or bulky goods. It ensures faster transit times as it follows a direct route to the destination port, reducing handling and the associated risk of damage. However, FCL shipping may be less cost-effective for smaller shipments, as businesses pay a fixed container cost regardless of the cargo volume. It is well-suited for companies with consistent large shipment volumes and a strong presence in specific markets. Ultimately, the choice between LCL and FCL shipping depends on the specific needs and priorities of a business. Smaller businesses with variable shipment volumes may find LCL shipping more cost-effective and flexible, while larger enterprises with substantial cargo volumes may opt for FCL shipping to ensure faster delivery and better control over their shipments. TOP 7 CRUCIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE LCL LOGISTICS SERVICES TOP 7 CRUCIAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR EFFECTIVE LCL LOGISTICS SERVICES LCL (Less-than-Container Load) logistics services offer a practical solution for businesses looking to ship goods without needing a full container. However, successfully utilizing LCL services requires careful planning and consideration of several critical factors. Here are the top seven crucial considerations to ensure your LCL logistics services are effective:
  • Cargo Consolidation: LCL involves combining shipments from multiple shippers into a single container. Consider the potential delays and complexities associated with consolidation and deconsolidation at various ports. Plan your shipping schedule accordingly to accommodate these processes. According to industry data, LCL shipments may experience delays during consolidation and deconsolidation processes, adding an average of 1-2 days to transit times.
  • Accurate Documentation: Proper documentation is paramount. Ensure all required shipping documents are complete and accurate, complying with international regulations. Accurate paperwork is essential for customs clearance and prevents shipment delays. Accurate paperwork can expedite customs clearance, resulting in a 30% reduction in clearance time on average.
  • Proper Packaging: To prevent damage during transit, ensure your cargo is appropriately packed and secured. Select suitable packaging materials based on the nature of your goods to prevent shifting or breakage. Data reveals that improper packaging can lead to damage in up to 15% of LCL shipments, underlining the significance of proper packaging materials and methods.
  • Booking Timing: Secure your LCL bookings well in advance, especially during peak shipping seasons. This ensures you have space reserved on vessels and reduces the risk of last-minute logistical challenges. During peak shipping seasons, booking LCL services at least four weeks in advance is recommended to secure space, as vessel utilization rates can exceed 95%.
  • Experienced Freight Forwarder: Choose a reputable freight forwarder or logistics provider with experience in handling LCL shipments. Their expertise will help you navigate LCL logistics complexities and ensure efficient cargo management. Businesses working with experienced logistics providers report a 15% decrease in shipping-related issues, translating to smoother LCL logistics processes.
  • Customs Compliance: Familiarize yourself with the customs regulations and requirements of the destination country or countries. Ensure your cargo adheres to these regulations to avoid clearance issues. Companies with a strong focus on customs compliance achieve a 95% success rate in customs clearance compared to 75% for those with less compliance emphasis.
  • Cargo Tracking: Leverage tracking and tracing services provided by your logistics provider to monitor your shipment's real-time status and location. This helps you stay informed and address any unexpected delays promptly. Shippers utilizing cargo tracking services experience a 25% reduction in shipment-related uncertainties, leading to more informed decisions.
 
September 8, 2023
Phuc Le
Content Writer at Amilo
August 24, 2023

International Shipping: Reach Every Corner of the World

If you want your ecommerce business to grow, considering international expansion is a logical next step. But this decision brings the challenge of figuring out how to ship products worldwide. To tackle international shipping for your ecommerce platform, you'll need a plan that suits both you and your business. You don't have to become a shipping expert, but you should grasp the available choices and find an approach that can meet your shipping needs in the future.

WHAT IS INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING?

WHAT IS INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING? International shipping involves moving goods across foreign borders. It plays a crucial role in connecting global economies and enabling sales to customers located outside your business's home country. There are several notable distinctions between international shipping and domestic shipping, primarily relating to expenses and paperwork. Compared to domestic shipping, international shipping tends to be pricier due to the longer distance traveled by the package, often involving various transportation methods such as air, land, and sea. Additionally, international shipping frequently entails the payment of import taxes and duties in the receiving country. In terms of documentation, international shipments necessitate customs forms—unlike domestic shipments. Furthermore, ecommerce international shipping usually takes more time compared to domestic deliveries.

UNDERSTANDING THE COMPONENTS OF INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING COSTS

When it comes to international shipping costs, there are four essential elements that play a crucial role in determining how efficiently you can manage global deliveries. These factors have a direct impact on both your business's operational effectiveness and customer satisfaction across the world.
1. Packaging
Before embarking on any international shipment, obtaining the right packaging supplies is paramount. Depending on the variety of shipments you handle, you might require multiple box sizes to accommodate varying product dimensions. Consider including cushioning materials like bubble wrap or stuffing to safeguard your items during transit. These packaging materials can be procured both online and at local post offices or office supply stores. Opting for a balance between sturdy and uncomplicated packaging is ideal. Customers prefer receiving products in a single, well-packaged box rather than multiple boxes of different sizes for a single item. Striking this equilibrium between durable packaging and cost-effectiveness might necessitate some research. Seek out deals and discounts where possible. For instance, if you use USPS as a business, you can order boxes for free. Incorporating packaging costs into your overall product pricing is usually straightforward, with packaging expenses ranging from around $1 to $5 per unit, depending on size and quality.
2. Cost of Shipping
Incorporating shipping costs into your pricing strategy is fundamental to setting accurate prices for your products. Achieving a balance between not incurring losses on shipping expenses and not overcharging customers is essential. Here's how to approach it effectively: Consider and Compare: The nature of your products and their sizes or weights determines how you should price shipments. Are your products consistently sized, or do they vary?  To calculate the costs of international shipping:
  1. Use a rate calculator for your selected carriers and simulate pricing for an average domestic order shipped internationally.
  2. Repeat the process for your smallest domestic sale.
  3. Similarly, calculate costs for your largest domestic sale.
UNDERSTANDING THE COMPONENTS OF INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING COSTS With these three figures, you can establish a foundation for pricing ecommerce international shipping. This exercise will also help you identify shipments that might incur higher costs than others. Utilize platforms like Shopify's shipping calculator to assess international shipping costs. Structure Your Pricing: There are three main pricing structures for international shipping: free shipping, carrier rate shipping, and flat rate shipping.
  • Free Shipping: If your profit margins allow, consider offering free international shipping. Customers appreciate this option, and it can boost sales. Calculate order thresholds for free shipping to ensure it's financially viable.
  • Carrier Rate Shipping: Integrated with platforms like Shopify, carrier calculated shipping offers real-time pricing and various shipping options. This customer-friendly option ensures that customers pay the same rate you incur for shipping through Shopify Shipping.
  • Flat Rate Shipping: If your international shipping costs remain consistent in terms of package size/weight and cost, consider employing flat or manual rate shipping.
3. Handling Charges
In addition to packaging and material costs, it's wise to include handling charges. International shipments navigate additional facilities compared to domestic orders, necessitating careful packaging. To calculate handling charges: Calculate Your Handling Costs: Determine your minimum hourly wage for preparing and packing shipments. Estimate the average time it takes to prepare an order for shipment. Multiply the hourly wage by the time required to prepare an order. For example, if it takes 10 minutes and your wage is $11 per hour, the handling charge would be $1.83. Remember that handling charges are discretionary, but they reflect the additional care required for international shipments. Customers expect to pay slightly more for quality shipping, and effective handling is a vital aspect of quality.
4. Duties and Taxes
Accounting for duties and taxes is crucial for transparency and customer satisfaction. The global cross-border ecommerce market is projected to reach $627 billion by 2022, indicating a significant market segment affected by duties and taxes. Research by the International Chamber of Commerce underscores the importance of clearly communicating these charges to customers, as unexpected fees lead to dissatisfaction and a high likelihood of returns. Implementing Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) is recommended by DHL Express for seamless customer experiences. Data from a survey by Pitney Bowes indicates that 81% of consumers are more likely to make a purchase if they know the total cost upfront, reinforcing the need to transparently include these charges in your pricing.

WHEN SELECTING SHIPPING CARRIERS, CONSIDER KEY FACTORS:

Adaptability is key in the dynamic shipping industry. Continuously reassess and refine your strategy in response to evolving offers and industry shifts, ensuring your international shipping operations remain optimized.  WHEN SELECTING SHIPPING CARRIERS, CONSIDER KEY FACTORS:
  • Costs: Amplify cost savings by employing multiple shipping carriers. While postal carriers often offer affordability, express carriers excel in speed and versatility. Regional courier services can be beneficial for addressing last-mile delivery complexities.
  • Delivery Options: Cater to diverse customer preferences by offering a variety of delivery timelines. Providing a range of choices enables customers to balance speed and cost according to their priorities.
  • Tracking and Insurance: Elevate customer satisfaction with comprehensive shipment tracking. Amilo provides integrated tracking, and you can enhance transparency by adding ePacket tracking. For added security, consider insuring parcels against potential loss or damage.
 
August 24, 2023
Phuc Le
Content Writer at Amilo
August 24, 2023

13 Smart Strategies to Reduce International Shipping Costs

Many businesses often operate under the assumption that their methods of international shipping and the associated costs are fixed and unchangeable. However, just because a certain approach has been traditionally followed doesn't mean it shouldn't be challenged. In fact, there are numerous opportunities to make improvements, even in areas as fundamental as arranging international shipments.  Taking a more strategic approach can lead to substantial savings, potentially up to 50% of the regular international shipping expenses. Presented below are 13 specific suggestions aimed at curtailing these international shipping costs, complete with an estimated calculation of the potential savings.

1. Establish Consistent Volume Agreements for International Routes

13 Smart Strategies to Reduce International Shipping Costs Creating ongoing partnerships with international carriers for specific shipping routes is a strategic move. By committing to regular shipments along a particular international lane, carriers can optimize their operations, which includes exploring opportunities for efficient backhaul utilization and expanding their global network. This heightened level of operational efficiency can lead to significant cost savings for your international shipping endeavors. Additionally, in the current landscape of limited shipping capacity, carriers often prioritize loyal customers who consistently provide reliable freight volumes, ensuring your shipments receive preferential treatment. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 2-12% compared to standard international shipping rates.

2. Optimize Off-Peak Shipping Days for International Shipments

Adjusting your international shipping schedule can result in measurable cost reductions. For instance, consider shipping a day earlier or later than usual. Fridays, known for their reduced shipping activity in the consumer goods realm, are characterized by retailers stocking their shelves by Thursday for weekend sales. Similarly, Mondays tend to have lower shipping demand, with carriers often seeking shipments to fill their available capacity. The feasibility of this approach depends on the type of cargo – non-perishable goods might offer more flexibility. Exploring off-peak international shipping options is especially advantageous for non-consumer product shippers. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 10% compared to peak international shipping days.

3. Leverage Nearby Consolidation Programs for Smaller International Shipments

Engaging in international retail consolidation is a mutually beneficial strategy. By consolidating your smaller international shipments with those of neighboring businesses destined for the same global retailers and distribution channels, efficiency is maximized. This method allows you to share the cost of a more economical international shipping solution, which could involve container or air freight consolidation. Meanwhile, retailers and distributors receive timely deliveries and can optimize their warehouse and storage space, resulting in reduced operational costs. To identify potential partners, explore local business associations, international trade organizations, or collaborate with a third-party logistics provider (3PL) offering consolidation programs for companies shipping to the same global customers. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: Up to 25% compared to the cost of individual, unconsolidated international shipments.

4. Cultivate Long-Term Relationships Instead of Constant Rate Shopping

While annual RFP processes might seem necessary to demonstrate your dedication to reducing international shipping costs, the practice of severing ties and engaging new international carriers each year isn't the most effective approach. Consider it analogous to "speed dating" in the realm of international shipping. Establishing enduring, strategic partnerships with international carriers can yield considerable transportation management benefits that directly impact your financial bottom line. Longer contractual periods provide carriers the chance to attract additional customers within the same global region, resulting in a more streamlined network with fewer inefficient empty miles. A carrier that optimizes its global assets becomes more profitable, enabling them to provide you with more favorable international shipping rates. Moreover, a multi-year agreement, such as a three-year contract, secures a consistent rate throughout the agreement, mitigating annual fluctuations – and the possibility of increases. Committing to a long-term partnership with an international carrier also translates to enhanced service quality, a factor of significant value. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 3-5% annually; these estimated savings could potentially double during periods of tight international shipping capacity.

5. Extend Delivery Lead Times for Enhanced International Planning

Injecting meticulous planning into the international supply chain and furnishing international carriers with advanced notice about upcoming shipments empowers them to optimize resources, encompassing ships, planes, drivers, and warehousing facilities. Providing advanced shipping notifications allows international carriers to orchestrate their global assets efficiently. Notably, a major cost for international carriers arises from vessels and planes idling at ports or airports, awaiting loading. Elevating the planning timeline mitigates these costs and enables carriers to pass on some savings to you. The potential for improved planning extends across all facets of the international supply chain – from cargo pickups and staging to loading on ships or aircraft. Longer lead times equip international carriers to effect behind-the-scenes enhancements, resulting in heightened efficiency and offering you more favorable international shipping rates. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 5-20%.

6. Streamline Dunnage for International Cost Efficiency

Numerous products necessitate protective measures like airbags, strapping, and blocking to safeguard them during lengthy international journeys, whether across oceans or through international airfreight routes. However, excessive precautions can inflate international shipping costs unnecessarily. International carriers possess invaluable insights that can help you optimize your dunnage and reduce international shipping expenses without compromising on the safety of your goods. Do not hesitate to seek their guidance. Many international carriers implement dimensional weight pricing models that incentivize shippers to use appropriately sized packaging, reducing box weight and minimizing the need for excess dunnage. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 1-3% per international shipment load.

7. Foster a Reputation for Efficient Loading in International Shipments

When international carriers determine pricing, they often account for a 2-hour loading window. However, if a carrier knows that a particular shipper consistently loads cargo within an hour, it can influence the pricing and cultivate a positive carrier-shipper relationship. Shippers with a track record of swift loading times may even negotiate these favorable load times as part of their rate structure. This proactive approach eliminates the need to chase after additional charges, which can be a substantial time and resource drain. An operationally efficient shipper not only saves money but also becomes a preferred choice for carriers, resulting in a dual advantage. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: Dependent on your current reputation. You can estimate that carriers often factor around $40 per hour into their rates for each hour it typically takes to load cargo.

8. Extend Pick-Up Windows for International Shipments

Offering international carriers later pick-up times, such as between 6-12 p.m., can transform your load into a backhaul opportunity. By providing pick-up times beyond the standard hours when other shippers have finished their shipping activities, you enable carriers to utilize their resources more effectively. For instance, a carrier might decline a load scheduled for a mid-afternoon pick-up due to conflicting routes. However, a later pick-up allows them to make the delivery and optimize their return trip with your freight. This approach contributes to maximizing asset utilization, particularly for longer international hauls. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 15-20% reduction from standard international shipping rates.

9. Optimize Pallet Spaces in International LTL Shipping

Efficiently utilizing the cubic space of your products, arranging them to occupy fewer pallet spots, and reconfiguring the packaging can all facilitate fitting more cargo onto a pallet and inside a trailer. For example, employing smaller boxes for small components instead of using large boxes can optimize pallet loading and save pallet spaces. Engage your international carrier for suggestions on creating more efficient pallet configurations, with recommendations tailored to the specific nature of the products being shipped. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: Up to $150 per saved pallet space.

10. Promote Larger, Less Frequent International Shipments

Encourage your international customers to place larger orders, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness of shipping in bulk. Sending six pallets in a single shipment is notably more economical than dispatching two pallets every two days. However, retailers often prefer smaller, more frequent shipments. To address this, incentivize larger orders by sharing freight savings with the retailer or exploring options like Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI). VMI allows retailers to stock items without being charged until the products are on the shelves, incentivizing them to order more inventory upfront. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: Up to 50% compared to the cost of the smallest international LTL shipments, which could trigger minimum charge requirements.

11. Seek Local Carriers in Proximity to Your International Destinations

Opt for international carriers situated near your intended delivery points. This increases the likelihood of your shipment being utilized as a backhaul, resulting in a more favorable rate. Filling empty return miles is a key strategy for carriers to optimize their earnings, and it's also an effective method for reducing your international freight costs. Surprisingly, many shippers fail to explore carrier terminals conveniently located near their frequent international delivery destinations. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 20% compared to standard non-backhaul rates for that particular route.

12. Involve Logistics in Early Decisions Regarding Product Design, Packaging, and Carton Selection for International Shipments

All these factors impact the utilization of trailer space to its maximum capacity. What some companies overlook is that packaging represents a small fraction of the supply chain cost, accounting for less than 10% of every supply chain dollar. In contrast, warehousing constitutes around 25% of the cost, while transportation accounts for approximately 60%. Therefore, it's prudent to approach packaging design and carton specifications with the goal of enhancing freight efficiency. The decision-makers in marketing roles may not inherently possess this mindset. Often, the impact of packaging optimization on international freight rates goes unnoticed by many companies. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 10% when considering the combined cost of packaging, warehousing, and international transportation.

13. Consider Outsourcing Your International Transportation Operations

Especially for smaller companies, international freight management might not align with core competencies. The expenses and time commitments associated with hiring, training, and maintaining a transportation team, as well as keeping up with evolving systems requirements, can be substantial. This is further compounded by the need to manage and retain a driver workforce. Enlisting the services of a third-party provider for international freight management shifts the financial responsibility of staffing and capital expenditures. Additionally, it opens the door to innovative solutions that proactive carriers often suggest. Moreover, carriers are inherently more efficient due to their ability to procure resources like fuel in bulk. If you possess your own fleet of trucks, it's worth exploring the possibility of outsourcing international freight to external experts. POTENTIAL SAVINGS: 3 to 5%. Shippers with their own truck fleets frequently incur at least a 25% premium compared to the standard cost of outsourcing international delivery needs to reputable and dependable carriers.
August 24, 2023
Phuc Le
Content Writer at Amilo

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