Shippit launches new service to boost Australian retail abroad

As international shipping prices continue to rise, with a 5% increase over the past year, Australian retailers are facing significant challenges in reaching global markets. According to Shippit's recent State of Shipping Report, 66% of retailers are prioritising international expansion, highlighting the need for more efficient global shipping solutions. Despite these initiatives, a mere 6% of global shoppers currently purchase from Australian brands.

In response to these challenges, Shippit has announced the launch of Shippit International, a cross-border shipping solution aimed at addressing the complexities and expenses associated with international shipping. This new service offers features such as automated duties and taxes, faster shipping (1-2 days to the U.S. via FedEx), and flexible multi-carrier options. The solution aims to provide Australian retailers with the necessary tools to explore new customer bases and diversify their revenue streams.

International shipping has been a persistent issue for Australian retailers due to rising costs and complex regulations. Over the past year, international parcel delivery costs have risen by nearly 5%, creating additional barriers for retailers. Long transit times and unexpected customs duties have further compounded the issue, with nearly 60% of global consumers reporting poor international delivery experiences. Additionally, 75% of these consumers have reconsidered future purchases from the same brand due to these challenges.

"International shipping is pivotal to our growth as we expand into global markets," said Christopher Lockwood, at City Beach Australia. "To sustain high customer satisfaction and meet the needs of international consumers, we require streamlined and cost-effective shipping solutions. Reliable and affordable shipping options are crucial for reaching new audiences and driving our business forward."

Shippit International aims to address these issues directly by providing Australian retailers with access to global markets through a flexible, multi-carrier solution. By using Shippit's Smart Routing service and securing competitive rates with key carriers such as FedEx, the company offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional shipping providers. This approach simplifies global expansion for retailers, ensuring efficient transit times and competitive pricing.

Inga Latham, Chief Product Officer at Shippit, stated, "eCommerce has opened up the world, but for too long, Australian retailers have struggled to access global markets. Shippit International is designed to meet these needs by providing reliable, cost-effective international shipping. It enables retailers to tap into new markets, which is essential as Australian consumers face cost-of-living pressures that are impacting discretionary spending. With only 6% of global buyers shopping from Australian retailers, this solution offers a significant growth opportunity. Our goal is to empower retailers to expand their reach with confidence, knowing they have the tools to deliver a seamless experience to customers worldwide."

Key services of Shippit International include simplified global expansion with automated calculations for duties and taxes, market-leading rates through Shippit's Smart Routing International service, and fast and reliable transit times. The partnership with FedEx offers exclusive rates for FedEx's express International Priority service, allowing Australian retailers to benefit from 1-2 day transit times to the United States. This is expected to ensure fast and reliable deliveries, even during peak periods such as the lead-up to Christmas. Additionally, FedEx's 7-day delivery option further enhances retailers' ability to meet holiday shipping deadlines.

This new solution from Shippit is poised to support the growing number of Australian retailers looking to expand their presence in international markets, providing them with the technology and partnerships needed to overcome the barriers of cross-border shipping.