In a recent episode of The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström, recorded live at eTail Boston, Helaine Rich, Vice President of Strategic Sales and Administration at ePost Global, discussed how retailers can prepare their global ecommerce strategies for peak season amid regulatory changes and shifting consumer expectations.
Rich highlighted the growing importance of accurate data for international shipments as USPS and global regulators increase requirements:
“Well, one of the main things that people are focusing right now on within the USPS changes in the international area is the need for more data… We work with our customers to understand the importance of proper descriptions, HS codes, et cetera. We have a HS code API so that we can help assign that correct HS code. Again, it’s only based on the quality of the data that the customers are providing.”
She also noted how brands are adapting their strategies to manage costs and consumer expectations:
“People know they have to get their inventory in earlier. With what’s going on again with the tariffs, I think people are also taking advantage in buying more inventory now as opposed to potentially paying a higher cost later. And as a result, they’re also starting their sales earlier… Historically it’s always been Black Friday. That starts in October now.”