Alright, let's talk about getting your products into the hands of your eager European customers.
THIS IS my bread and butter as the founder of AMZ Prep.
This is where the rubber meets the road, folks.
Your logistics and fulfillment strategy can make or break your EU expansion. Let's dive in!
Understanding EU Logistics 📦
The EU might be a single market, but it's not a single logistics landscape.
You've got different languages, varying customer expectations, and a complex web of transportation networks. Here's what you need to know:
- Transportation Network: The EU has an extensive road and rail network, making ground shipping efficient.
- Shipping Times: Vary widely. Next-day delivery is common within countries, but cross-border can take 2-5 days.
- Customer Expectations: Generally more patient than US customers, but expectations are rising.
Fulfillment Options 🏠
- Self-Fulfillment:
- Pros: Full control, potentially lower costs
- Cons: Complex regulations, need for local expertise
- Third-Party Logistics (3PL, like AMZ Prep)
- Pros: Expertise in local markets, scalability
- Cons: Less control, potential communication challenges
- Amazon FBA:
- Pros: Leverage Amazon's vast network, Prime eligibility
- Cons: Higher fees, less control over branding