Looks like you have finally decided to take your home-grown desi D2C brand to international markets.
But is international shipping stopping you in your tracks?
Then this blog will solve your shipping challenges and set you up for e-commerce international shipping.
Read to find out the best international logistics partners and best practices to smooth the international shipping journey.
Introduction: The Importance of Reliable Export Logistics for Indian D2C Brands
Shipping is at the core of customer experience, directly affecting brand reputation, scalability, and profitability.
No business wants to lose international customers because of high shipping rates or risk their reputation because of shipping damage. More so, compliance, tracking cross-country orders, and managing returns are no less than a headache.
Let’s take a closer look at export logistics for D2C e-commerce sellers in India.
Understanding Export Logistics: How It Works for Indian D2C Brands
Export Logistics is the process of successfully delivering goods across international borders
It’s different from domestic shipping because it requires different kinds of licenses, customs clearance, tariffs, etc., to get through to another country. Because of the longer distance, the packaging, warehousing, and shipping needs differ as well.
What is Export Logistics?A Step-by-Step Overview
Step 1: Product Readiness & Compliance
- Ensure product export eligibility: Certain products require special permissions or are restricted in a given country.
- Labelling & packaging compliance: Products must meet international labelling, packaging, and safety standards.
- Obtain necessary certifications depending on the product you want to export (e.g., FSSAI, CE marking, ISO certifications).
Step 2: Documentation Preparation
Critical documents needed for smooth customs clearance:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Shipping Bill (filed electronically via the ICEGATE portal)
- Bill of Lading or Airway Bill
- Export License (if applicable)
- Certificate of Origin
- Insurance Certificate
Step 3: Selecting the Right Logistics Partner
- Choose a reliable international courier/ freight forwarder/aggregator.
- Factors to consider:
- Shipping rates
- Delivery speed
- Global network coverage
- Tracking capabilities
- Customs clearance assistance
We will be discussing this at length in this blog’s upcoming section.
Step 4: Customs Clearance in India
- File the Shipping Bill through the Indian Customs Electronic Gateway (ICEGATE).
- Submit all required documents to the customs authorities.
- Pay applicable duties/taxes (if required).
Step 5: Freight Movement & Export Handling
- Your logistics partner handles:
- Pickup from the warehouse
- Consolidation & cargo handling
- Transportation to the port/airport
- Secure loading
Step 6: International Freight Transit
- Goods are shipped via air, sea, or road, depending on destination and budget.
- Real-time tracking is crucial to monitor shipment status.
Step 7: Customs Clearance in the Destination Country
- Your logistics partner or importer handles:
- Submission of required documents
- Payment of import duties/taxes
- Compliance with destination country regulations
Step 8: Last-Mile Delivery to Customer
- After clearance, goods are handed over to local delivery partners for final delivery to the customer’s address.
- Ensure a smooth, trackable last-mile delivery experience.
Step 9: Managing Returns & Reverse Logistics (Optional)
- Plan for international returns by setting clear return policies.
- Choose partners who offer affordable and efficient reverse logistics services.
Key Stages of the Export Logistics Process for eCommerce Businesses
For eCommerce businesses, the export logistics process involves:
- Inventory Management: Maintaining optimal stock levels to meet international demand.
- Integration with e-commerce Platforms: Ensuring seamless order processing and tracking through platform integration.
- Returns Management: Establishing clear policies and processes for international returns.
Challenges in the Export Logistics Process & How to Solve Them?
Shipping can make or break the business, especially for direct-to-consumer brands. When it comes to international shipping, the challenges intensify.
- Documentation Complexity:
Exporting requires meticulous paperwork, which can be overwhelming. Even the smallest of errors, like a missing signature, can delay your packages or keep them stuck at customs.
Solution: Use checklists, templates, or a logistics partner who knows how to make the paperwork smoother.
- Infrastructure Limitations:
Inconsistent transport infrastructure can lead to delays.
Solution: Partnering with a logistics provider who has a reliable international carrier network. For example, iThink Logistics has a special partnership with FedEx for hassle-free international shipping.
- Last-Mile Delivery Issues:
The final delivery stage can be unpredictable.
Solution: Choose a logistics partner laced with robust delivery fleet and a strong track record of timely delivery and proactive communication.
- High International Shipping Charges:
Many Indian D2C brands struggle with raised shipping costs due to factors like bulky packaging or poor rate negotiation with logistics providers.
This eats into your margins and can make your products less competitive abroad.
Solution: Select an international shipping partner with strong coordination with local courier services. For instance, iThink has combined forces with FedEx to offer international shipping as smooth as local delivery.
- Customs Delays & Compliance Issues:
Incomplete understanding of export documentation, country-specific regulations, or failure to meet compliance requirements often results in customs clearance delays. This not only slows down delivery but can also lead to penalties, returned shipments, or dissatisfied customers.
Solution: Stay updated on country-specific regulations and lean on expert support to ensure your documents and duties are sorted.
- Limited Tracking & Visibility:
Not all logistics providers offer real-time tracking. When you or your customers don’t know where the parcel is, it creates anxiety, more support tickets, and a drop in trust.
Solution: Go for shipping partners with live tracking and proactive updates, so both you and your customers are in the loop.
E-commerce sellers must plan everything from precise documentation to customs clearance, cross-border taxes, etc. Otherwise, export logistics can become your worst nightmare.
How to Ship Products Internationally from India with E-commerce International Shipping?
As a D2C seller in India, you should look into implementing smart logistics to make the most of your online international business. Here are simple, yet effective steps –
- Choose an international shipper that delivers in target countries and helps with customs clearance, as well.
- Set up an online store with international shipping. Include details like shipping zones, currency conversions, extra charges (if applicable), and estimated delivery dates.
- Negotiate rates for different export deliveries based on volumetric dimensions, destination, and delivery type.
- Integrate the functionality of “track my order” for export logistics. This helps buyers trust your brand and reduces support overhead.
- Maintain communication with end customers on order status and expected delivery time.
How to Stay Compliant with International Shipping Regulations
- Import Export Code (IEC): An IEC is mandatory for exporting goods from India. It serves as a unique identification number for tracking international trade transactions.
- Product Restrictions and Prohibitions: It’s essential to verify that the products comply with the destination country’s import guidelines to prevent rejections or legal complications.
- Labelling and Packaging Requirements: Proper labelling, including the country of origin (e.g., “Made in India”), is often required. Additionally, labels should comply with language requirements and include necessary handling instructions.
- Customs Duties and Taxes: Understanding the Harmonised Tariff Code (HTC) for products helps determine applicable duties and taxes in the destination country. This information is crucial for pricing strategies and informing customers about additional charges.
- Compliance with Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Leveraging FTAs can reduce or eliminate tariffs, making products more competitive. Identifying relevant FTAs and ensuring compliance with their rules can provide significant advantages.
Clearly, there’s a lot that goes on behind the scenes when it comes to international shipping. Instead of wasting your time and resources on these unfamiliar operations, you are better off partnering with an international shipping company. Let’s go through a few options and how to pick an e-commerce partner for export logistics.
Top International Shipping Companies for Indian D2C Brands
Expanding globally requires a reliable logistics partner to ensure timely deliveries and customer satisfaction. Here are seven top international shipping companies that cater to Indian Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) brands:
Best International Shipping Companies for Indian Sellers
- FedEx
A globally recognised name, FedEx offers extensive international shipping services from India to numerous countries. Known for their reliable and time-definite deliveries, FedEx provides a range of shipping options, including express and economy services, catering to various business needs. Their advanced tracking systems and customs clearance expertise make them a dependable choice for Indian exporters.
- iThink Logistics
Tailored specifically for Indian D2C brands, iThink Logistics offers cost-effective international shipping solutions with real-time tracking, seamless eCommerce platform integrations, and robust Return to Origin (RTO) management.
Their dedicated support team understands the unique challenges faced by Indian sellers, providing personalised assistance to streamline global expansion.
The differential factor with iThink Logistics is that they are a FedEx-compatible partner. This means that when you partner with ITL, you get the dual benefit of an exceptional international fleet with an Indian support team you can work closely with.
Here’s what you will get –
- Exclusive pricing discounts from FedEx
For packages<=68 kg
- Express delivery with an EDD of 2-3 days across 220+ countries in the world.
- Economical delivery with an EDD of 4-5 days across 220+ countries.
For packages > 68 kg
- Fast shipping for bulk packages with an EDD of 4-5 business days.
- Affordable rates for bulk shipment are available as well.
- Access to the largest fleet of planes, trucks, and ships globally.
- Automation that builds efficient shipping workflows.
- A single window for all your international shipping needs.
- Shiprocket
Shiprocket is a prominent logistics aggregator in India to facilitate both domestic and international shipping. They offer a user-friendly platform with features such as automated order fulfilment, real-time tracking, and competitive shipping rates, making them a preferred choice for many Indian e-commerce businesses.
- Blue Dart
Blue Dart, South Asia’s premier express air and integrated transportation company, offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 35,000 locations in India and more than 220 countries worldwide through their partnership with DHL. They provide a range of services, including time-definite deliveries and temperature-controlled shipping, catering to diverse business requirements. citeturn0search0 - ShipGlobal.in
ShipGlobal.in is revolutionising international shipping for Indian exporters, SMEs, and D2C brands by offering seamless global shipping solutions. With services starting from 50 grams, they cater to a wide range of shipping needs, enabling businesses to expand their reach internationally with ease and efficiency. - Aramex
Aramex is a leading global provider of comprehensive logistics and transportation solutions. With a strong presence in India, they offer international shipping services characterised by flexibility, reliability, and timely deliveries. Aramex’s expertise in customs clearance and tailored solutions makes it a valuable partner for Indian D2C brands aiming for global expansion.
How to Choose the Right International Shipping Partner
Consider the following factors while choosing the Right International Shipping Partner:
- Service Coverage: Ensure the shipping company services your target markets and offers comprehensive coverage.
- Shipping Rates: Compare costs to find a partner that aligns with your budget without compromising on service quality.
- Delivery Speed: Assess transit times to meet customer expectations for timely deliveries.
- Tracking Capabilities: Opt for partners with advanced tracking systems to provide real-time updates to customers.
- Customer Support: Reliable customer service is essential for promptly addressing any shipping issues.
- Technology Integration: Seamless integration with your eCommerce platform can streamline order processing and fulfilment.
Comparing International Shipping Charges: Finding the Best Rates
Shipping costs can significantly impact your profitability. To secure the best rates:
- Obtain Multiple Quotes: Request detailed pricing from several shipping companies to compare.
- Analyse Fee Structures: Be aware of additional charges such as fuel surcharges, customs fees, and handling costs.
- Negotiate Terms: Leverage your shipping volume to negotiate better rates or discounts.
- Consider Aggregators: Platforms like iThink aggregate services from multiple carriers, potentially offering more competitive rates.
- Evaluate Service Levels: Balance cost with service quality to ensure customer satisfaction isn’t compromised.
By carefully evaluating these factors and partnering with a logistics provider that aligns with your business needs, Indian D2C brands can effectively navigate the complexities of international shipping and achieve successful global expansion.
International Shipping: Strategies for Seamless Global Expansion
Expanding your Direct-to-Consumer (D2C) brand internationally unlocks new markets and revenue streams. However, navigating the complexities of global logistics requires strategic planning and execution. This guide outlines essential practices to ensure seamless international shipping and highlights how iThink Logistics can be your ideal partner in this journey.
Importance of Shipping Tracking and Transparency
Effective tracking and transparency are vital in international shipping. They enhance customer satisfaction, build trust, and reduce inquiries about order status. Providing real-time updates ensures customers are informed, leading to a positive shopping experience.
Best Practices for Seamless Order Tracking
To optimise order tracking for global customers:
- Implement Robust Tracking Systems: Utilise advanced tracking technologies that offer real-time updates and comprehensive visibility into the shipping process.
- Communicate Proactively: Send timely notifications about order status changes, including dispatch, transit milestones, and delivery estimates.
- Provide Accessible Tracking Information: Ensure customers can easily access tracking details through your website or dedicated portals.
Optimizing Packaging and Fulfillment
Efficient packaging and fulfilment processes are crucial for hassle-free international shipping:
- Standardise Packaging: Use uniform packaging to streamline handling and reduce shipping costs.
- Ensure Compliance: Adhere to international shipping regulations, including accurate labelling and documentation.
- Leverage Technology: Implement fulfilment software to manage inventory and automate order processing.
Why Choose iThink Logistics?
For Indian D2C brands aiming for global reach, iThink Logistics offers tailored solutions:
- Customised for Indian D2C Brands: iThink understands the unique challenges faced by Indian sellers and provides features designed to address them.
- Cost-Effective Services: Competitive pricing without hidden fees ensures affordability without compromising quality.
- Advanced Tracking Systems: Real-time tracking capabilities keep you and your customers informed throughout the shipping process.
- Robust RTO Management: Data-driven strategies minimise Return to Origin (RTO) rates, enhancing profitability.
- Seamless Integrations: Easy integration with major eCommerce platforms simplifies order processing.
- Dedicated Support: A responsive support team familiar with local markets ensures timely assistance.
- Hassle-free Documentation: With IThink, the list of documents needed is drastically reduced. You only share a letter of undertaking, Government ID cards, and the IEC code.
By partnering with iThink Logistics, you gain a reliable ally equipped to navigate the complexities of international shipping, enabling seamless global expansion for your brand.
The Best International Logistics Partner for Your D2C Brand
For Indian D2C brands aiming to grow globally, the right logistics partner makes all the difference. It impacts your delivery timelines, shipping costs, customer satisfaction, and overall brand reputation.
iThink Logistics offers a clear advantage here. Built for Indian sellers, it combines affordable international shipping rates, real-time tracking, smooth integrations, and strong RTO management—all in one platform.
Unlike other players, iThink prioritises personalised support and hassle-free operations tailored to the unique challenges of Indian eCommerce brands.
If you’re looking to scale faster, cut costs, and deliver a reliable experience to your global customers, iThink is the partner to count on.
Simplify your export logistics. Choose iThink today.
