What if you can increase your profit by 10x by offering international shipping? The logistics industry is evolving, and the global market offers immense growth opportunities. Many small and medium-sized logistics businesses in Nigeria have noticed a trend of customers requesting international shipping options.
At Terminal Africa, we’ve seen how businesses that embrace this demand can transform their operations. For example, FSI Logistics started by running errands, handling local deliveries with dispatch rides and eventually added international shipping to their services. They increased their revenue and profit significantly within six months.
If you’re ready to take your logistics business to the next level, here’s how you can expand with international shipping.
Is There a Demand for International Shipping in Your Business?
The first step to expansion is identifying the need for international shipping in your customer base.
- Are customers asking? If you’re receiving inquiries about international deliveries, that’s a clear indicator.
- What are the trends? Many logistics businesses are exploring cross-border shipping to meet growing customer expectations.
- What about your competitors? If others in your industry are offering these services, it’s time to catch up or risk falling behind.
Partner with a Trusted International Shipping Platform
Transitioning to international shipping can seem daunting, but a reliable partner can simplify the process.
- Terminal Africa offers tools and resources to connect your logistics business with multiple trusted couriers for international deliveries.
- With features like real-time tracking, competitive pricing, and seamless payment solutions, Terminal Africa makes the process straightforward for you and your customers.
Partnering with Terminal Africa is as easy as creating a free account at https://terminal.africa
How Can You Manage Customs and Regulations Smoothly?
Cross-border deliveries come with unique challenges, but they’re manageable with preparation.
- What documents do you need? Commercial Invoices, waybills, and phytosanitary certificates are some of the documents you need depending on what you’re shipping. Please read our complete blog to learn all about shipping documentation here. Terminal Africa provides detailed guides to simplify this.
- Are there restricted items? Each country has specific rules, so knowing what you can and can’t ship is crucial. Here is the complete list of prohibited items.
- Should you offer insurance? Yes, it’s a great way to protect your customers’ shipments and build trust.
How Can You Build Relationships with E-commerce Businesses?
E-commerce brands are constantly looking for reliable logistics partners. This could be your chance to grow.
- What services can you offer? Create tailored packages for bulk shipments and offer solutions for frequent international deliveries.
- Can you scale with them? Be ready to adapt as their business grows, ensuring a mutually beneficial relationship.
How Can Proper Packaging Improve Your International Shipping?
Packaging plays a crucial role in ensuring your shipments reach their destination safely and intact.
- Why is proper packaging important? International shipments travel longer distances and through multiple checkpoints, making them more susceptible to damage.
- What materials should you use? Use sturdy boxes, protective fillers like bubble wrap, and waterproof materials to safeguard items.
For detailed packaging tips and best practices, check out our blog on Types of Packaging Materials and Their Uses for Shipping. It’s a valuable resource for businesses looking to excel in international deliveries.
Expanding your logistics business with international shipping can significantly boost your revenue, broaden your customer base, and position you as a leader in your industry. Just like FSI Logistics, you too can leverage our expertise to make this transition seamless and profitable.
