Cross Border eCommerce Checklist

2020 has been a difficult year for people, businesses, and economies. Although no one could prepare for the impact Covid-19 would have globally, with retailers being thrown into a downward spiral, e-consumers have found a way to adapt. While storefronts may be closing, online shopping continues to surge as more and more people embrace the world of e-commerce — which offers an easier, more convenient, and safer way to shop during the pandemic than physical retail. Business-owners looking to enter or expand their e-commerce profit should look to China’s e-commerce market, which continues to grow. This year, Chinese consumers are forecasted to spend $242.41 billion, up from last year’s $186.04 billion. But before businesses in North America can enter this booming sector, they’ll need to figure out a strategy for Cross Border eCommerce in China.

What is Cross Border eCommerce

Cross Border eCommerce in China is a broad term that refers to online trade or sales between businesses and consumers, known as B2C; businesses to businesses or brands or wholesalers, known as B2B; or between two private people, referred to as C2C.

The rise of social media has given Cross Border eCommerce a huge momentum in the last few years. It is now easier than ever before to surpass borders and access global markets. Through Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, YouTube, and WeChat, more and more brands can gain international exposure like never before. China’s eCommerce brought in $5.8 trillion last year, making it the world’s second-largest retail market and an appealing market to break into. A successful plan for Cross Border eCommerce in China can generate more revenue for businesses small and large. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

International Support

Before a business starts promoting themselves internationally, or fully enters into Cross Border eCommerce in China, they will need to ensure they have enough team members to handle future growth. These team members do not have to be in-house, but they must have a firm understanding of the business they are working for and the level of customer service they are expected to provide. Businesses must also be strategic when looking at Cross Border eCommerce in China — localization goes beyond just translations. Payments and shipping methods must localized, as must branding. Businesses may have to update creative assets, depending on the markets they are entering. What sells well in North America may not translate in China, and vice versa.

Understanding of Product Restrictions

While many products are safe to sell across borders, not every product is. Before a business considers Cross Border eCommerce in China, they need to be aware of all the product restrictions on a country-by-country basis. Restrictions around apparel, footwear, cosmetics, skincare, electronics, and health goods will vary by location.

Scalable Technology

For small and medium-sized businesses that are looking to break into Cross Border eCommerce it is very important that they are ready to scale-up quickly. Whatever e-commerce technology a business prefers mustn’t be cost-prohibitive, but most importantly, it needs to be able to handle a global market. Rather than using multiple platforms and apps, find a technology strategy that is able to handle discounts, coupons, shipping and payments, analytics, and reporting. Visit our website to know more.