In an era increasingly governed by digital interactions, businesses are urgently required to stretch beyond domestic boundaries. The global cross-border business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce market is estimated by Statista to reach US$7.9 trillion by 2030. Furthermore, markets like Vietnam are expected to experience immense growth, at a forecasted annual rate of 30% between 2021 and 2025 as reported by the International Trade Administration. This guide serves to assist businesses in Vietnam looking to capitalise on these encouraging trends through DHL Express Commerce (DEC), a well-rounded e-commerce management solution fashioned for the complexities of international shipping and order fulfilment.
The need for an integrated e-commerce management solution
Navigating the labyrinthine landscape of international e-commerce expansion involves more than merely translating your website into different languages. Currency conversion, tax compliance, and international shipping logistics introduce layers of complexity that cannot be brushed aside. DEC furnishes businesses with a streamlined enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform that integrates these disparate elements, minimising errors and inefficiencies. With this application programming interface (API), companies can shift their attention towards areas such as product development, customer relations, and marketing solutions — areas where their expertise is better leveraged.
Understanding the DEC customer and merchant journey
For the Customer
As customers navigate through the DEC interface, they'll find that the process is designed for their convenience, every step of the way.
- Checkout and cart: The customer chooses their desired items and places them in their cart.
- Address details: Subsequent to that, they will key in comprehensive delivery details.
- Shipping method: Customers can select DHL Express Vietnam as their shipping service.
- Payment: Payment is then finalised.
- Order completion: The e-commerce order is submitted for merchant review, initiating the fulfilment process.
For the Merchant
From order confirmation to the final delivery, DEC provides merchants with a range of features designed to streamline the e-commerce process.
- Order Confirmation: After reviewing the orders and making adjustments, data is submitted to DHL Express Vietnam.
- Collection: Merchants can opt for automated dispatch or manual collection.
- Order Shipped: The package is fully trackable post-dispatch.
- Delivery: Electronic proof of delivery confirms successful order fulfilment.
About DEC’s functionalities
Displaying checkout rates and transit time: Consumer convenience
One of the standout features of DEC is its ability to display real-time checkout rates and transit times directly on your e-commerce platform. This transparency provides customers with valuable information that aids them in making informed decisions. It not only instils confidence but also leads to higher conversion rates. Merchants can customise this feature to align with their shipping policies, offering a seamless and informative experience from browsing to checkout.
Receiving and validating orders: The second milestone
The fulfilment process begins the moment an order is received. DEC integrates orders from a range of e-commerce platforms, such as Shopify, WooCommerce, and Magento, into a singular dashboard. Subsequently, these orders undergo stringent validation checks for product availability and customer information, minimising complications later in the fulfilment process.
Label creation and shipping: The backbone of fulfilment
A seemingly minor error in labelling could lead to significant issues with customs clearance, delays, or even returned packages. DEC takes the hassle out of this crucial step by offering an intuitive interface for generating accurate shipping labels. Additionally, merchants have the ability to print invoices directly from the dashboard, enhancing the administrative process.
Order preparation and pickup: The final steps
With accurate labels at hand, DEC provides a comprehensive checklist to guide you through the remainder of the order preparation. This includes ensuring that the packaging is suitable for international shipping and verifying that all customs documentation is in place.
Versatility and integration: Key Features that set DEC apart
A plethora of payment options
E-commerce payment gateways can often become a bottleneck in the buying process, leading to abandoned carts. DEC sidesteps this issue by offering integration compatibility with various credible e-commerce payment systems, from Shopify to WooCommerce and Magento Payment Gateways.
End-to-end tracking: A win-win for businesses and customers
In an era where customers have come to expect real-time tracking for their orders, DEC offers a robust tracking system that keeps both the seller and buyer in the loop. This transparency not only enhances the customer experience but also reduces the burden on customer service teams to provide timely and accurate order updates.
Dedicated IT support
DHL Express offers reliable IT support to assist merchants in integrating and troubleshooting the DEC platform, ensuring that technical issues are swiftly resolved to maintain operational efficiency.
Importing your own invoice via document manager
DEC offers a Document Manager feature that allows merchants to upload and manage their own invoices. This feature provides flexibility and control over the invoicing process, making it easier to comply with various international shipping regulations.
