When you sell globally on eBay, you gain access to over 180 active million active buyers across 190 countries. That’s more opportunities and higher profits for you. But before you begin, you’ll need to know all about regional differences.
In this modern age, information is easily accessible through the internet, and it is limitless. Products that is not intended to be sold in some countries might still be in demand due to the unintended exposure. This creates demand locally as importers will sell at much higher prices. Due to this reason buyers will go to international marketplaces to look for both unique and affordable products.
Even though sometimes the shipping is expensive, they will still make the purchase because that is the cheapest option they have. This can cause the average price of a product to differ from one country to another. Online traders understand this well. Therefore, they are active on cross border platforms to help make products accessible around the world.
Selling internationally is not going to be the same as locally. It should be seen as complementing local selling as it targets different markets.
Put your products in front of millions of new potential buyers
Tap into new markets that are different from local markets and find hot new products that eBay buyers find unique.
Sales can happen while you sleep as buyers from different regions are shopping around the clock.
Build your international brand presence.
Discover an alternative business model – stock clearance, products with better source ability.
No up-front cost for selling on eBay.
eBay local support to help you on your selling journey
Various shipping types from economy to expedited with different costs. You will need to identify which shipping solution is the best for your product.
Countries like the US and AU have tax exempts for items roughly below US$800. However, if you are exploring a new country to sell to, you will need to be aware of the tax rules. Online research or speaking to your logistics provider can get you these answers.
You will also be competing against international sellers. Having a solid strategy is important (such as inventory selection, pricing and shipping).
International returns can be challenging due to needing the item returned to you internationally. This will cost money. Returns are usually caused by buyers that are unhappy with the product. This is why it is important to list your item properly so that buyers know exactly what they are getting.
The largest eBay market is the US which not going to be an issue. However, as you expand your market reach, you need to list in the local language such as listing on eBay.de (Germany).
Various shipping types from economy to expedited with different costs. You will need to identify which shipping solution is the best for your product.
Countries like the US and AU have tax exempts for items roughly below US$800. However, if you are exploring a new country to sell to, you will need to be aware of the tax rules. Online research or speaking to your logistics provider can get you these answers.
You will also be competing against international sellers. Having a solid strategy is important (such as inventory selection, pricing and shipping).
International returns can be challenging due to needing the item returned to you internationally. This will cost money. Returns are usually caused by buyers that are unhappy with the product. This is why it is important to list your item properly so that buyers know exactly what they are getting.
The largest eBay market is the US which not going to be an issue. However, as you expand your market reach, you need to list in the local language such as listing on eBay.de (Germany).
Each region is unique. If you want to maximize your sales globally, you’ll have to first study the region you want to market to and understand what these differences are.
Learn the preferences and behaviour of buyers in the market. Most buyers prefer offers and shipping policies that are similar to what’s being offered by local sellers.
E.g: Western buyers are accustomed to free shipping and 30-days free return policies.
Study what local sellers are offering and try to match them or offer something better. This way, you’ll be able to compete against them and grab the attention of those buyers. Also, find out if buyers in that region will be interested in the product you want to market. Is it something they would need? Is it something they would use? After all, you wouldn’t try to sell ice to an eskimo, would you?
As currencies change across the borders, be wary of the price you set for your listings. It should be within the range of your competitors. Don’t price it too high or you could scare buyers away, and not too low or you’ll lose profits.
Worry not! We’ve got you covered! Study the right price to list your products by checking on eBay.
Each country has different laws and taxes. To save yourself from potential headaches, familiarise yourself with each country’s:
Different countries have different laws, and it is vital that you are aware of them. For example, all foods imported into the US must be FDA-approved, and the shipping of goods that are considered indecent or obscene are restricted from entering the UK.
Get familiar with the tax types and calculations in each country. Most importantly, give your buyers an early heads up that they are responsible for these taxes. This helps ensure smoother transactions and minimal disputes filed..
Learning about cross border shipping helps you ensure smooth-sailing deliveries. Not to mention, you protect your seller standards and avoid potential headaches. Every region has different shipping policies and laws that you have to comply with if you want to ensure a problem free delivery. Regardless of where you want to sell your products to, here’s where you’ll find advice, hints and tips on cross border shipping.
