Distance sales

Whether you’re selling to businesses or individuals, distance is no longer an obstacle.
As national markets have compartmentalised, distance sales have gained momentum.
Still, markets remain quite distinct and international sales call for effort and know-how. Tailoring your catalogues to the preferences and constraints of national markets is an absolute must.

Extensive preparation and research on your target market are prerequisites. FEVAD (the French distance selling association) and its foreign correspondents are excellent resources. Local experts may also be helpful.

For the rest, follow these guidelines for international distance sales:

• Adapt your products, services, concept, and price structure to your target market. Once you’ve done your research, market testing is the last essential step.
• Offer a payment method that reflects local customs: Distance sales in Germany are based on cash on delivery, while in France customers usually pay when ordering. Make sure your customers are used to your conditions.
• Remember that logistics are an integral part of the service you sell: check that there are no weak links in the chain.
• Send out catalogues 
• Process orders
• Deliver items.

Take advantage of La Poste’s expertise in this field. Contact us.

Don’t forget to look into customs regulations: It would be a shame for your products to be held up upon arrival! For more information, take a look at our country by country guide.

La Poste, the international mail solution, looks forward to advising and supporting you as you venture out into our terrain: the world.