UPS to address challenges in international e-commerce
UPS has launched UPS Global Checkout, an new service that makes it even easier for consumers around the world to buy online from shippers around the world.
Until now, international purchases often arrived with an unpleasant surprise – an additional bill for unpaid import costs. UPS Global Checkout solves that problem by guaranteeing upfront the amount online shoppers pay in duties, fees and taxes, and eliminating the frustration of unexpected costs at delivery.
UPS is the only global integrated carrier to offer a guaranteed landed cost solution for international shipping that is seamlessly incorporated into its shipping technology, transforming the shopping experience and offering complete transparency on costs. With updates in near real time, the service adjusts to policy changes, international tax laws, duties and tariffs, helping to avoid surprise costs and offering a positive delivery experience. Available in 43 origin countries and delivering to more than 200 destinations worldwide, the service helps businesses of all sizes grow globally by streamlining international shipping.
“With UPS Global Checkout, we’re making international shopping around the world as easy as buying in-store,” said Kate Gutmann, EVP and president of International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions at UPS. “Online shoppers can now enjoy full transparency and peace of mind with no surprises, knowing what they pay at checkout is the total cost for a cross-border purchase. This, combined with our total UPS premium delivery experience, benefits our customers – the retailers – by helping to drive additional sales. Given trade shifts around the world, expanding growth opportunities in new markets can now be seamless.”
Customs duties, taxes and fees are a significant concern for international shoppers. Every day, tens of thousands of residential deliveries around the world arrive with duties and taxes payable on delivery. And a survey of U.S. and U.K. shoppers found 41% were deterred from buying from an international e-commerce site if the amount of duties and taxes was not crystal clear at checkout.
“This new service addresses a need that we know is important for customers shipping internationally by providing clarity and confidence to people ordering their products,’’ said Daniel Carrera, president, UPS Europe, Middle East, Africa and India. ‘’We’re working to offer new, market-leading capabilities that not only make it easier for businesses of all sizes to compete globally, but also provide an unparalleled consumer experience.’’
