DHL Express SME survey reveals pain points for logistics managers

As the landscape of international trade continues to evolve, DHL Express recently conducted a survey polling U.S. small and medium-sized businesses, including its customers, to capture their perspectives on current international trade trends, challenges, and opportunities.

The survey, which had more than 8,500 responses, reveals SMEs are concerned about tariffs and are expanding their international audience to offset the China tariffs.

Additional key findings include:

• A majority of respondents (56 percent) said the recent changes in tariff policies have had a moderate or significant impact on their business operating costs.
• An overwhelming majority (55 percent) said both Canada and Mexico are a top priority for their business this year, likely because of the USMCA, which will provide important benefits to U.S. exporters and importers upon its final ratification.
• Almost 1/3 (30 percent) of respondents experienced 34-100 percent YOY (from 2017 to 2018) growth in international e-commerce sales, and that growth is only expected to continue throughout 2019.
• Over 1/3 (34 percent) of respondents are focusing most this year on faster shipping options to drive sales.
• 45 percent would rather have their in-laws move in than have to worry about international trade barriers/regulations for their business.

Greg Hewitt, CEO, DHL Express U.S, told LM in an interview that his company regards this market intelligence as a key differentiator.

“By giving small and medium-sized businesses the tools to grow, we have become not just a shipping provider, but a trusted partner to our customers who rely on our expertise on issues like duties and taxes, emerging markets, last mile delivery, tariffs, and Customs clearance,” he said.

Hewitt also noted that this “leading global brand in the logistics industry” has a strong presence in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.