Maximize Profits: Selling Internationally on Etsy
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Selling on Etsy: Domestic vs International
- Understanding Customer Preferences
- Language Barriers
- Customs Issues
- Import Duties and Taxes
- Shipping Time
- Shipping Cost
- Overcoming Customer Concerns
- Language Barriers: Etsy's Translation Technology
- Dealing with Customs Issues
- Informing Customers About Shipping Times
- Addressing Shipping Costs
- Expanding Your Market: Selling Internationally
- The Benefits of Selling Internationally
- Tips for Successful International Shipping
- Conclusion
Article:
Expanding Your Market: Selling Internationally on Etsy
As an Etsy seller, you may be wondering if it's worth the effort to sell to customers in other countries. What are the laws and regulations you should be aware of? How much are customers willing to pay for shipping? And what about shipping times? Are customers on Etsy really willing to wait for international orders? In this article, we'll dive deep into the exclusive Etsy data survey conducted by eRank.com, covering everything you need to know about selling internationally on Etsy.
1. Introduction
Before we delve into the details, let's take a moment to understand the potential of selling internationally. According to a survey conducted by eRank.com, out of 1,010 Etsy shoppers, 56.3% were willing to buy from international sellers, while 28.7% were open to the idea. Only 15.8% of shoppers expressed unwillingness to purchase from international sellers. These numbers indicate a great probability for Etsy sellers to explore new markets by offering international shipping.
2. Selling on Etsy: Domestic vs International
Understanding customer preferences is crucial when deciding to sell internationally. The survey revealed that several concerns play a significant role in a customer's decision to buy from another country. Language barriers ranked low on the list, with only 21.1% of shoppers finding it concerning. This suggests that most buyers are understanding and willing to navigate through language differences.
3. Understanding Customer Preferences
Language Barriers
Etsy has a translation technology that can automatically translate listings into various languages. The survey data supports the notion that buyers are reasonable when it comes to language barriers. Non-English speaking sellers need not worry, as customers are generally accommodating. In case of communication in Etsy conversations, sellers can turn to tools like Google Translate or the Microsoft Translator app for accurate translations.
Customs Issues
Customs issues were a concern for 35.1% of the surveyed buyers. To prevent potential problems, sellers should ensure that all customs information is properly filled out when creating an international shipping label. This includes specifying the weight, dimensions, quantity, individual item weights, and value of the items. Fortunately, it is easy to find the tariff code for the item by conducting a simple online search.
Import Duties and Taxes
36.7% of shoppers expressed concerns about import duties and taxes. It is important to note that these fees are the buyer's responsibility. Sellers should inform customers about this and provide a link to Etsy's import fee policies if questions or disputes arise during the delivery process.
Shipping Time
Shipping time was the most concerning factor for 67.1% of the surveyed shoppers. To address this concern, sellers should be transparent about their shipping times in listing photos, descriptions, shop announcements, policies, and FAQ sections. By providing clear and accurate shipping information, customers will have realistic expectations and be more likely to proceed with a purchase.
Shipping Cost
Shipping cost was the top concern for 69.8% of the shoppers surveyed. While it may not be possible to reduce shipping costs, sellers can experiment with offering free shipping by incorporating the cost into the overall product price. This can attract buyers searching for items with free shipping and potentially increase sales.
4. Overcoming Customer Concerns
To ensure a positive customer experience and avoid potential issues, sellers should take proactive steps to address buyer concerns.
Language Barriers: Etsy's Translation Technology
Utilize Etsy's translation technology to automatically translate listings into multiple languages. This will help potential international buyers understand the product information and increase their confidence in making a purchase.
Dealing with Customs Issues
Properly fill out customs information when creating an international shipping label. Include accurate details such as package weight, dimensions, item quantity, individual item weights, item values, and the correct tariff code. Purchasing a cheap scale to measure weights and conducting an online search for the tariff code can simplify this process.
Informing Customers About Shipping Times
Clearly communicate shipping times through multiple channels, including listing descriptions, shop announcements, policies, and FAQ sections. Maintain constant communication with customers throughout the transaction process and use tools like the eRank.com Delivery Status report to stay updated on possible delays.
Addressing Shipping Costs
While shipping costs are beyond control, sellers can experiment with offering free shipping on certain products. By adjusting the overall product price to include shipping costs, sellers can attract buyers searching for free shipping options and potentially increase sales.
5. Expanding Your Market: Selling Internationally
Selling internationally presents an incredible opportunity to maximize profits and expand your customer base worldwide. With the right strategies and a solid understanding of customer preferences, international selling can become as streamlined and effortless as domestic shipping.
The Benefits of Selling Internationally
By expanding your market to international customers, you increase your overall profit potential. You gain access to a wider customer base and tap into markets that may have a higher demand for your products. Selling internationally also allows you to diversify your sales and reduce reliance on domestic markets.
Tips for Successful International Shipping
To succeed in international selling, maintain clear and consistent communication with customers, address any concerns promptly, and provide accurate shipping information. Utilize tools and resources such as Etsy's translation technology, customs information guidelines, and delivery status reports. Stay informed about import duties and taxes, and ensure that customers are aware of their responsibilities in relation to these charges.
6. Conclusion
Expanding your market through international selling on Etsy is a strategic move that can significantly increase your overall profits. By understanding customer preferences, addressing their concerns, and implementing effective strategies, you can successfully navigate the world of international shipping. Utilize the resources available, stay informed, and provide an exceptional customer experience to achieve Etsy success.
FAQ
Q: Is it worth selling internationally on Etsy?
A: Yes, selling internationally on Etsy can significantly increase your profit potential by accessing new markets and customer bases worldwide.
Q: What are the main concerns for customers when buying from international sellers?
A: Customers are primarily concerned about language barriers, customs issues, import duties and taxes, shipping time, and shipping costs.
Q: How can sellers overcome language barriers when selling internationally?
A: Etsy's translation technology can automatically translate listings into various languages, providing buyers with product information in their preferred language.
Q: How can sellers address customs issues?
A: Sellers should ensure that customs information is accurately filled out when creating international shipping labels. This includes providing details such as package weight, dimensions, item quantity, individual item weights, item values, and the correct tariff code.
Q: What can sellers do to alleviate concerns about shipping times?
A: Sellers should be transparent about shipping times by including this information in listing photos, descriptions, shop announcements, policies, and FAQ sections. Constant communication and the use of delivery status reports can also help address concerns.
Q: Is it necessary to offer free shipping for international orders?
A: While not necessary, offering free shipping can attract buyers who search specifically for items with free shipping. Sellers can incorporate shipping costs into the overall product price to provide this option.
Q: How can sellers expand their international market successfully?
A: Sellers can expand their international market by utilizing Etsy's translation technology, addressing customer concerns, staying informed about import duties and taxes, and providing exceptional customer service throughout the transaction process.
