The 4 most common mistakes in international sales - and how to overcome them!

Would you like to improve your e-commerce business? If so, international sales could be the right option for you. Below are some of the key challenges and ways to overcome them.

Thanks to an extensive international delivery network, it has never been easier for online businesses to open their doors to the world. The good news is that there is a growing global market of consumers eager to purchase products from foreign brands.

Overseas Express is an exclusive member of the Eurodis network, which enables flexible, simple, and affordable road delivery of your parcels beyond the borders of Croatia.

Understanding how to sell internationally is a challenge, but being aware of common pitfalls and preparing properly for them—while taking the right steps to overcome them—is the key to successful international business.

A recent study showed that last year 57% of online shoppers made at least one purchase from a company based in another country.

Before deciding to sell internationally, it is important to consider some of the obstacles you may encounter. For example, there are international shipping challenges that must be addressed first if your company—and your customers—are to enjoy a seamless experience. In a vast and diverse world with multiple languages and cultural nuances, you will almost certainly encounter certain difficulties.

1. Selling in the wrong market

Selling in the wrong market can quickly lead to disastrous results. For example, selling swimwear in countries where winter conditions prevail for most of the year is unlikely to succeed. In addition, you must consider the economic situation in the countries where you sell. A mobile phone sold for $1,000 in the United States will not sell for the same price in markets with lower average incomes or higher poverty rates.

Thorough research is essential to learn more about the international market you are targeting. Make sure you fully understand the local market, its regulations, and culture before launching your product. Local market research should include market size, the local economy, projections of potential challenges, and existing solutions.

2. Realistic cost calculation

Although international sales can often be extremely profitable for e-commerce businesses, it is important to have a realistic understanding of the costs involved. International shipping costs are higher than domestic delivery costs. Taxes and additional fees may also be added on top of shipping costs. The best way to avoid overspending on international delivery is to thoroughly research all international costs and fees that you will need to charge. Once the estimated shipping cost is calculated, it becomes much easier to decide whether international sales are financially viable for your business.

3. Adapting to the target audience

Localizing your business means adapting it to the target market. This includes accurate translations on your website and in marketing materials. Many companies—even large corporations—have made this mistake. Do you remember the successful slogan of the American Dairy Association, “Got Milk?” When translated into Spanish, it became: “Are you lactating?” The same can happen with product names and descriptions.

Using local translation services that understand local colloquialisms is essential. Marketing in regions where different languages are spoken requires more than Google Translate. If customers cannot understand your product or feel offended due to poor translation, they are unlikely to make a purchase.

4. Local representation

When consumers call or otherwise contact a company, they prefer speaking with someone who speaks their language and where communication barriers are minimal. Customers feel more understood by someone from the same linguistic and cultural environment than by someone who does not speak their local language. For this reason, local representation can differentiate one e-commerce business from another.

For those working in e-commerce, international sales can be a profitable venture when done correctly. Being aware of major international sales challenges gives your business the best chance of success. If you thoroughly understand your market and target customer base, international sales can take your business to the next level—and we are here to ensure your products are delivered safely and on time to your customers. International shipping prices can be found in our price list.