Tips for cross-border SME shipping with DHL Express

Cross-border shipping has become essential for small and medium-sized (SME) businesses looking to expand their reach beyond local markets. For Thai business owners, engaging in cross-border shipping means dealing with international import-export regulations, varying shipping costs, customs clearance, and the need for meticulous documentation. While navigating these processes can be complex, they are important for overseas shipping efficiency and customer satisfaction.

However, with the right resources and delivery service, you can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth. This is where partnering with DHL Express can be beneficial for your small or medium-sized business. By working with DHL Express, one of the best international cross-border shipping service providers, you can easily navigate the complexities of shipping outside of Thailand.

To help you get started, we give you everything you need to know about sending your parcels through DHL Express’s efficient customer touchpoints: DHL Express ServicePoint, MyDHL+ website and 24-7 call center to meet customer preference any time, anywhere.

Tips for delivering parcels through DHL Express ServicePoint

If you’reyou’re planning to send your parcels internationally through a DHL Express ServicePoint near you, here are some tips to help you streamline the shipping process:

1. Have your shipping information ready

One of the first steps in streamlining the walk-in shipping process is ensuring that all necessary shipping information is prepared and readily available. Before you visit any DHL Express ServicePoint, you should have details of your recipient’s information, package contents, and the destination country's specific shipping requirements. Providing this information upfront can significantly expedite the process.

2. Prepare the necessary customs forms and documentation

Understanding and completing the necessary customs documents is crucial for a hassle-free shipping experience. For SME business owners in Thailand, having the complete forms and documents needed for international shipments, including commercial invoices, export declarations, and any other relevant paperwork, is important. This knowledge can help you avoid delays or penalties that come with customs clearance issues. For more information, check out how to avoid delays in shipment at customs.

3. Double-check packaging and labeling

Proper packaging and labelling are vital for the safe and successful delivery of your parcel. To ensure secure packaging, use durable and shock-resistant packaging for your products. This includes materials such as corrugated cardboard, foam, or plastic. These materials are suitable for protecting your goods from bumps and impacts. Additionally, your packages’ labelling should be clear and durable, with all your shipment’s information visible and accurate. This not only protects your shipment but also aids in the efficient handling and routing of your parcel through DHL’s network. Check out our complete packing guide for international shipping for more information.

4. Familiarise yourself with prohibited and restricted items

Before you ship, you should be aware of the items that are restricted or prohibited by the destination country. For example, if you’re planning to export goods to Singapore, prohibited goods as per Singapore Customs include chewing gum, firecrackers, and telephone voice-changing equipment, among others. Knowing these prohibited items and restrictions can save you time and ensure your package is not held up or refused by customs.

How to optimise online shipping through MyDHL+ website

With DHL Express’s convenient online platform, MyDHL+, you can create and manage shipments to and from various countries and territories where our services are available. Here is how you can optimise the shipping process with DHL Express’s export shipping tools:

1. Customise your shipping preferences

Tailor your shipping experience by setting your preferred shipping options, such as delivery times, shipment value protection, and pickup locations, within MyDHL+. By customising your settings, you can streamline your shipping process and ensure each package is sent according to your specific requirements.

2. Utilise bulk shipping tools

If your SME frequently sends multiple shipments, take advantage of MyDHL+’s bulk shipping tools. These tools allow you to process several shipments simultaneously, drastically reducing the time and effort needed to manage large volumes of parcels.

3. Access real-time quotes and transit times

Obtain quotes and estimated transit times for different service options using MyDHL+. That way, you can make informed decisions based on cost and delivery speed, allowing you to optimise shipping for both your business and your customers.

4. Track shipments with ease

You and your customers can easily track shipments using MyDHL+’s tracking capabilities. The platform gives you visibility into the status of your shipments from dispatch to delivery, ensuring you and your customers are always informed and enhancing trust and satisfaction.

5. Schedule pickups conveniently

Organise your logistics seamlessly by scheduling pickups directly through the platform. MyDHL+ offers the flexibility to arrange for pickups at your preferred times, ensuring that your shipping operations align with your business schedule.

Call: How DHL Express handles customer support 24/7 through call center

1. Effective communication and support

With our round-the-clock call support, you can expect trained professionals to help you with a wide range of shipping inquiries. You can trust DHL Express staff to provide you with detailed information, from tracking shipments to explaining shipping options, ensuring that you can receive the support you need whenever you need it.

2. Call assistance for shipping and customs

Understanding the complexities of international shipping, especially the nuances of customs regulations, can be daunting, especially for small or medium-sized business owners who are only beginning to expand globally. As such, our staff is trained to demystify these processes, offering step-by-step guidance on customs documentation, fees, and procedures. This personalised support helps streamline the shipping experience, making international commerce more accessible for you.

DHL Express’ comprehensive solutions for SMEs

DHL Express is committed to supporting the growth and global reach of Thai small or medium-sized businesses through our efficient and accessible overseas shipping solutions. Recognising the unique challenges faced by smaller enterprises in cross-border shipping, we provide tailored solutions that encompass reliable worldwide shipping and strategic logistics planning. Our extensive network and deep expertise in international shipping mean that SMEs can expect not just logistical support but also strategic advice on optimising their shipping operations for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and customer satisfaction.

By leveraging DHL's global infrastructure and local insights, Thai business owners can navigate the complexities of international commerce with confidence. Whether it's ensuring the timely delivery of parcels or providing exceptional customer support, DHL Express stands as a dedicated partner to SMEs in their journey toward global expansion.

Begin your global e-commerce expansion by opening a business account today.

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