The e-commerce landscape in New Zealand is thriving, with revenue projected to reach US$5.85 billion in 20251. This growth mirrors the global surge in online shopping. Today, over 33% of the world's population is now purchasing goods and services online regularly, and e-commerce has exploded into a US$6.8 trillion industry with expectations to reach US$8 trillion by 20272.
While this presents significant opportunities for New Zealand businesses, especially Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), navigating the complexities of e-commerce can be challenging. As of February 2024, SMEs, defined as businesses with fewer than 20 employees, comprised 97% of all enterprises in New Zealand3. However, according to the CPA Australia Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey 2023-2024, New Zealand SMEs are still less likely to generate significant revenue from online sales compared to the regional average4.
Competition from larger players, both domestically and internationally, also poses another challenge for SMEs. The top online stores in New Zealand include giants like Woolworths, Shein, Apple, and Chemist Warehouse5, while international behemoths like Amazon, JD.com, and Walmart dominate the global e-commerce market6.
However, local SME owners should not be disheartened by the competition as the e-commerce market is constantly growing, presenting new opportunities for businesses of all sizes. With the right tools and integrated logistics support, local SMEs can capture a greater share of this booming e-commerce market. Furthermore, with DHL Express Commerce's comprehensive suite of e-commerce shipping solutions, local SMEs can thrive in the digital age.
Key features and benefits of DHL Express Commerce
DHL Express Commerce provides SMEs with the tools and resources they need to succeed in e-commerce, offering a range of features and benefits that streamline operations, reduce costs, and enhance customer satisfaction.
Simplified shipping
DHL Express Commerce simplifies the shipping process through e-commerce shipping automation and user-friendly e-commerce shipping tools. SMEs can easily generate shipping documents, schedule pick-ups, and track shipments, saving valuable time and resources.
Additionally, shipping integration with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Magento, and WooCommerce further streamlines operations, allowing businesses to manage their shipping processes directly from their e-commerce platform. This eliminates the need to switch between multiple applications, reducing manual effort and minimizing errors. For example, instead of manually creating shipping labels and entering tracking information, SMEs can automate these tasks through DHL Express Commerce, freeing up time for other essential business activities.
Global reach
Expanding into new regions and markets can be a game-changer for local SMEs, and DHL Express Commerce provides the tools to make it happen. With access to DHL Express' extensive global network, SMEs can tap into new customer bases and unlock growth opportunities in over 220 countries and territories worldwide.
This global reach allows businesses to diversify their markets and reduce reliance on any single region. While New Zealand currently exports significantly to Australia, the US, and Asian markets, DHL Express Commerce opens doors to untapped regions, including emerging markets with high growth potential, such as Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. This can help SMEs reduce their dependence on specific markets and mitigate risks associated with economic fluctuations or geopolitical events.
Competitive pricing
Cost-effectiveness is crucial for SMEs in e-commerce, and DHL Express Commerce offers competitive pricing and flexible shipping options tailored to their needs. Businesses can choose from various services and rates to optimize their logistics costs and improve their bottom line. By leveraging DHL Express' global network and volume discounts, SMEs can access cost-effective shipping solutions that were previously only available to larger enterprises, enhancing their competitiveness in the market.
Reliable delivery
Fast and reliable international delivery is paramount for customer satisfaction in e-commerce. Research from Sendcloud shows that 23% of shoppers won't return to a business after a single delayed delivery7, highlighting the importance of reliable shipping for building customer loyalty and brand reputation.
DHL Express Commerce ensures the timely delivery of shipments, minimizing delays and enhancing the customer experience. DHL Express' robust network and efficient processes ensure that your shipments reach their destinations on time, every time, strengthening your customer relationships and fostering trust in your brand.
Customer support
Navigating the complexities of international shipping can be challenging, especially for New Zealand SMEs with limited resources. However, DHL Express Commerce provides dedicated customer support, offering customer service solutions to assist e-commerce businesses with any inquiries or issues related to shipping, billing, customs, and duties.
This expert support ensures that any challenges are resolved quickly and efficiently, minimizing disruptions to business operations and providing peace of mind. Whether you need assistance with shipping documentation, customs clearance, or tracking your shipments, DHL Express' customer support team is readily available to provide guidance and support.
DHL Express Commerce: more than just shipping
Beyond its core shipping solutions, DHL Express Commerce offers additional value-added services to further support New Zealand SMEs in their e-commerce journey, such as:
E-commerce consulting
SMEs can access expert advice on various aspects of e-commerce, including packaging basics, e-commerce strategy, cross-border logistics, and international expansion. This guidance helps businesses optimize their operations, make more informed decisions, and skillfully navigate the complexities of today's e-commerce landscape.
Marketing support
DHL Express Commerce provides resources and tools to help SMEs promote their online business and reach a wider audience. This includes marketing materials, online resources, and access to expertise to enhance their marketing efforts. By leveraging these resources, local SMEs can effectively promote their products and services, build brand awareness, and drive traffic to their online stores.
Technology integration
Seamless shipping integration with popular e-commerce shipping platforms, shopping platforms, and other business tools allows SMEs to streamline their operations and manage their e-commerce activities efficiently. This integration simplifies workflows, enhances productivity, and reduces manual effort, allowing e-commerce businesses to focus on their core competencies and growth.
Unlocking e-commerce success for SMEs
DHL Express Commerce empowers SMEs in New Zealand to navigate the challenges of today’s e-commerce landscape and achieve their business goals. Our integrated logistics support and international logistics services, reliable international courier network, and dedicated customer support will help you navigate the challenges of cross-border logistics and achieve success in the global marketplace. By leveraging our comprehensive suite of e-commerce international shipping solutions, SMEs like yours can streamline shipping processes, expand global reach, and enhance customer satisfaction.
Open a DHL Express business account today to access DHL Express Commerce and unlock the full potential of your e-commerce business. With DHL Express Commerce, you can focus on growing your business while we handle all the complexities of shipping and logistics.
