Are you looking to take your business global? If so, you’ll need to know how to sell internationally. This can be a daunting task, but with the right preparation and knowledge, it can be a breeze to get international sales.
What are some common obstacles that need to be overcome when selling internationally?
1. Language barriers
One of the most common obstacles faced when selling internationally is language barriers. It is important to research the language spoken in your target market and make sure that you have a good understanding of it before attempting to sell there. There are a number of ways to overcome this obstacle, such as hiring bilingual staff, using translation services (hreflang can be used on eCommerce stores, to list just one), or developing marketing materials that can be easily understood by a wide audience.
2. Cultural differences
Another common obstacle is cultural differences. What may be considered normal or acceptable in one culture may be offensive or taboo in another. It is important to do your research and understand the cultural norms of the international markets before attempting to sell there. There are a number of ways to overcome this obstacle, such as hiring staff from the target market, developing marketing materials that are culturally sensitive, or partnering with a local company.
3. Regulatory barriers
Another obstacle that needs to be overcome when selling within the global market is regulatory barriers. Each country has its own set of laws and regulations that need to be followed in order to sell there. It is important to research the laws and regulations of your target market before attempting to sell there. There are a number of ways to overcome this obstacle, such as hiring a lawyer, developing a good relationship with a local partner, or working with a trade association.
What are some common regulations that need to be followed when exporting goods?
The first step to selling internationally is understanding which regulations apply to your product. Depending on the type of product you’re selling, you may need to obtain a license or permit from the U.S. government. You will also need to make sure that your product meets the safety and quality standards of the country you’re selling to.
It’s important to be aware of the common regulations that apply to exporting goods, as failure to comply can result in delays, fines, or even the seizure of your product.
What are some common shipping methods for exporting goods?
Once you’ve determined which regulations apply to your product, you’ll need to choose a shipping method. The most common shipping methods for exporting goods are by air, sea, or land.
Each shipping method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that’s best for your particular product. For example, shipping by air is generally the fastest option, but it’s also the most expensive. Shipping by sea is slower, but it’s usually the most cost-effective option.
What are some common payment methods for exporting goods?
When selling goods internationally, you’ll need to choose a payment method that’s suitable for both you and your buyer. The most common payment methods for exporting goods are letters of credit, cash in advance, and open account.
Each payment method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the one that’s best for your particular product and buyer. For example, letters of credit are generally the safest option for both buyers and sellers, but they can be complex and time-consuming to set up. Cash in advance is a simpler option, but it requires the seller to bear the risk of non-payment.
What are some common risks involved in exporting goods?
There are a number of risks involved in exporting goods, including the risk of non-payment, the risk of damage or loss during shipping, and the risk of regulatory compliance issues.
It’s important to be aware of these risks before you start exporting goods, so that you can take steps to mitigate them. For example, you may want to consider using a letter of credit to reduce the risk of non-payment, or using insurance to cover the risk of damage or loss during shipping.
What are some common methods of shipping internationally?
There are a few common methods of shipping internationally:
1. Air shipping – This is the quickest method of shipping, but it is also the most expensive.
2. Sea shipping – This is the slowest method of shipping, but it is the most economical.
3. Land shipping – This is a middle ground between air and sea shipping, offering a balance of speed and cost.
What platforms allow global selling?
There are a number of online marketplaces that allow for international selling, Shopify, Amazon, and Ebay, to name a few. Make sure you pick the right platform for what you’re selling, it’s all about identifying the right customer’s in the right environment to smash international business.
Thinking about expanding? Get in touch with the 18 Growth team today!
