Unlock Big Savings on International Shipping with These Expert Tips
For small businesses, shipping can be one of the biggest expenses—especially if you’re selling internationally. High freight costs, unexpected customs fees, and inefficient packaging can all eat into your profit margins.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to overspend on shipping.
With the right strategies, you can cut costs, improve delivery times, and keep customers happy. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips for saving money on shipping without sacrificing quality.
Let’s dive in! 🚀
1. Take Advantage of Package Consolidation
The Problem:
Many small businesses ship multiple orders separately, which leads to higher shipping fees and unnecessary costs.
The Solution:
Instead of sending multiple packages, consolidate your shipments to reduce costs.
✅ Save money on international shipping by bundling multiple packages into one.
✅ Avoid paying for extra packaging materials and reduce wasted space.
✅ Get bulk shipping discounts that lower your overall costs.
💡 How Viabox Helps: Viabox offers package consolidation services, combining multiple shipments into a single, cost-effective package.
2. Repack to Reduce Dimensional Weight Charges
The Problem:
Shipping carriers charge based on dimensional weight (size of the package), not just the actual weight. Oversized boxes = higher costs.
The Solution:
📦 Use smaller, properly sized packaging to lower dimensional weight.
🔄 Remove unnecessary packaging from suppliers to optimize space.
💰 Repack with cost-efficient materials to cut down on weight and size.
💡 How Viabox Helps: Viabox’s repacking service ensures your shipments are optimized for lower shipping costs while keeping your items safe.
3. Choose the Right Shipping Carrier and Method
The Problem:
Not all shipping carriers offer the best rates for every destination. Choosing the wrong carrier can mean spending more than necessary.
The Solution:
📍 Compare carrier options before shipping.
📦 Select the right shipping speed—not every package needs express delivery.
💰 Look for discounted shipping rates available through a freight forwarder.
💡 How Viabox Helps: Viabox partners with multiple carriers so you can compare rates and pick the best option for your business.
4. Plan for Customs Fees in Advance
The Problem:
Unexpected customs duties and taxes can increase shipping costs and cause delivery delays.
The Solution:
🛃 Research customs regulations before shipping to a new country.
📑 Ensure correct documentation to avoid fines or returned shipments.
💰 Consider Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) shipping to include customs costs upfront.
💡 How Viabox Helps: Viabox provides customs clearance support (by providing a Commercial Invoice), helping businesses navigate duties and taxes smoothly.
5. Track Exchange Rates to Avoid Hidden Costs
The Problem:
Currency fluctuations can make shipping costs unpredictable.
The Solution:
💱 Pay in local currency when possible to avoid conversion fees.
📊 Use forward contracts to lock in favorable exchange rates.
💰 Choose a payment provider with the best rates instead of relying on traditional banks.
💡 How Viabox Helps: Viabox offers multiple payment options, helping businesses manage exchange rate risks.
6. Optimize Your Return Policy to Minimize Losses
The Problem:
Returns can be expensive—especially for international shipments.
The Solution:
✅ Set clear return policies to avoid unnecessary returns.
📍 Offer local return addresses to reduce return shipping costs.
📦 Encourage exchanges instead of refunds to keep revenue within your business.
💡 How Viabox Helps: Viabox offers package forwarding services, so businesses can manage returns more efficiently.
7. Use a Freight Forwarder to Unlock More Savings
If your business is growing, using a freight forwarding service like Viabox can help you:
✔️ Access bulk shipping discounts
✔️ Avoid common shipping mistakes
✔️ Manage customs and international payments easily
✔️ Streamline packaging, tracking, and delivery
🚀 Start Saving on Shipping Today!
Sign up for a free Viabox account and take control of your shipping costs.