Unlocking Global Opportunities: Seamless Cross-Border eCommerce Solutions With SkyNet Worldwide Express

From its humble beginnings, SkyNet has risen to become a globally recognised brand with a reach to over 190 countries. 

Since 2021, SkyNet South Africa has embarked on an aggressive acquisition strategy, bolstering its presence and capabilities with the acquisition of the SkyNet operations in Belgium, Germany, Mozambique, Namibia, and United Kingdom in November of that year.  More recently the acquisition of the SkyNet operations in Hong Kong has created a multitude of opportunities for businesses seeking to expand their reach into the lucrative Asian markets. China alone exports 1.8m parcels daily on a global basis and the latest trends see countries like Cambodia and Vietnam increasingly becoming eCommerce factories of choice in this region. 

Hong Kong, renowned as a vital gateway to China, has long been recognised for its role in the world of eCommerce and express courier parcel services.  As the epicentre of Asia’s largest eCommerce market, China holds immense significance in the world of eCommerce.  The strategic location of Hong Kong and its unique economic attributes make it a vital supply chain gateway for this dynamic market. Consolidation is nothing new in business, and more so in the eCommerce industry.   A recent strategic partnership in Hong Kong and Dongguan, China now provides for a fulfilment and consolidation solution. 

With three hundred and eighty-eight million online shoppers in Africa and the opportunities this creates for cross-border trade, investing in Hong Kong was an easy decision” says Tommy Erasmus, CEO of SkyNet International Holdings.

However, with great opportunities come unique challenges, particularly in cross-border eCommerce. SkyNet recognises the complexities faced by eTailers, especially when it comes to accurately calculating VAT and Duties throughout the eCommerce value chain.  

To address this challenge, SkyNet has forged strategic partnerships with industry leaders to streamline the calculation of landed costs, ensuring seamless cross-border compliance.  This innovative approach enables the collection of VAT and Duties directly from either the sender or consumer prior to the package leaving the country of origin. This minimises delay and ensures smooth transactions and revenue compliance in the relevant markets.  

According to a recent blog by Wise Systems, last-mile delivery accounts for 53% of the total cost of shipping.  One of the biggest cost factors in last mile delivery is redelivery attempts.   To reduce these costs, SkyNet South Africa is in the process of developing an integrated out-of-home delivery offering to augment their current best-in-class home delivery reach. This will include a network of Lockers and Counter points that consumers can select to avoid the frustration of a home delivery where deliveries often fail due to non-availability of the consumer at that time. SkyNet is committed to provide consumers and eTailers with the power of choice by offering a multi-channel last mile delivery capability either through collaborations with best-in-class existing networks or self-owned. 

Shopify recently noted that the average return rate for eCommerce is typically 20% to 30% and the reasons for returns vary from product dissatisfaction, incorrect sizing, or discrepancies between the product and its online description.  To simplify the returns process, SkyNet’s online returns approval process enables eTailers to manage returns through a user-friendly dashboard.  Consumers receive a QR code or link with their initial purchase, allowing them to request a return of an item directly on SkyNet’s Returns dashboard.  The system automatically triggers a notification to the eTailer who then can authorise the return (or reject it). This seamless process accelerates refunds and ultimately enhances customer satisfaction.  

Realising the cost implication of cross-border returns to eTailers, SkyNet once again set-out to find a solution that will reduce the costs associated with cross-border returns.  Through the Return Fulfilment solution, SkyNet offers a return grading product where non-damaged items are repackaged and remotely warehoused for resell rather than an expensive return to country of origin.  

Using innovative, customer-driven solutions, SkyNet empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of cross-border trade with confidence. With its comprehensive suite of solutions and commitment to service excellence, SkyNet is the trusted partner for businesses embarking on a journey of global expansion. 

Experience the power of seamless cross-border logistics with SkyNet Worldwide Express and unlock a world of endless possibilities for your business.

Visit our website skynetworldwide.com to find out more or contact us on +27 87 106 9966 to partner with SkyNet on your journey to global expansion.