Global CommerceZone Inc., Chicago, signed a services agreement with the U.S. Postal Service yesterday to ensure improved package delivery and help online retailers capitalize on opportunities in the global marketplace.
The agreement will initially cover shipments to Canada, France, Germany, Japan and the United Kingdom.
Customers of the international e-commerce fulfillment company will be able to use USPS’ Global Package Link, a high-volume, trackable package delivery service that provides total landed costs and helps mailers fulfill merchandise orders to customers around the world.
The service will help e-commerce companies shipping products that can be delayed by problems associated with diverse currencies, complex customs regulations, language barriers and local laws and taxes.
“GPL, particularly its proprietary Customs Pre-Advisory System, will enable us to quickly move thousands of our customers' packages through customs with virtually no manual paperwork,” said Jim Treleaven, president and CEO, Global CommerceZone. “It's an important part of our ongoing efforts to develop integrated, end-to-end solutions that will overcome current barriers and enable online retailers to effectively reach and serve international customers.”
According to Treleaven, a number of retailers have stopped or curtailed their overseas shipments because of problems associated with currency, customs and local delivery services.
For online retailers not using the Global Package and Global CommerceZone services, he said, the return rates on international shipments are often as high as 30 to 50 percent.
“GPL and companies such as Global CommerceZone will be the backbone of international consumer e-commerce,” said Bob Michaelson, manager, international marketing and sales for international business, USPS. “As online shopping becomes even more pervasive, the need for our combined services will grow exponentially.”
