By Women Who Influence | The Influence
A product can be competitively priced at the warehouse and still become difficult to sell once delivery is included. International orders add a chain of responsibilities that owners need to understand before promising a final price or arrival date.
Know what the delivery terms describe
The International Trade Administration explains that Incoterms are internationally recognized trade terms used to allocate responsibilities and certain costs and risks between buyers and sellers. Its shipping guidance points to freight, insurance, duties, taxes, customs clearance and documentation as issues to clarify.
A shipping term is not a substitute for a complete sales agreement or a determination of the rules that apply to a specific shipment. Owners should seek advice for the product and destination involved.
Map the journey before making the promise
Our perspective: describe the path from your business to the customer. At each handoff, ask who arranges the service, who pays, what information is required and what happens if the shipment is delayed.
A quoted carrier charge may not describe every cost a customer will face. Before marketing an international offer, work through a realistic example with the logistics provider and confirm which charges are included. Avoid using a domestic delivery experience as the only basis for an overseas promise.
Include the return journey
A product that arrives damaged or does not meet the order creates another operating question. Consider how a customer would report the issue, who would handle the response and what the process would cost. Clear communication belongs alongside the shipment itself.
For a growing business, the useful goal is a repeatable delivery process that both parties understand. The first international order should help reveal the work required to serve the next one.
Sources: International Trade Administration guidance on Incoterms and shipping options. Operational questions are The Influence’s analysis, not customs or legal advice.
