What is E-Export? How is E-Export Done?

What is E-Export? How to Do E-Export?

E-export refers to selling products or services abroad via digital platforms. Unlike traditional export processes, it provides both time and cost advantages through the use of online platforms. With e-export, businesses can access global markets, reach a wider customer base, and increase their revenues.

This process includes steps such as shipping products abroad, integrating payment systems, and managing logistics. Especially popular platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Etsy are essential tools for companies engaged in e-export.

What is E-Export? Key Points About Micro Export in the B2C Business Model

B2C (Business to Consumer) is a business model where products are sold directly to individual consumers. Micro export is a type of export usually carried out within the B2C model and applies to shipments under specific weight and value limits. In Türkiye, micro export applies to shipments that do not exceed 300 kilograms and 15,000 Euros.

Micro export transactions have been simplified with the Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB). This model makes it possible for small and medium-sized enterprises to enter global markets. By simplifying logistics and customs processes, it allows international sales with lower costs.

What Documents Are Required for E-Export?

For a successful e-export process, certain legal and operational documents must be prepared. These documents ensure that exports are conducted in accordance with international trade standards.

• Tax Certificate: A tax certificate is mandatory for businesses to operate legally. Export transactions cannot be conducted without this document.
• Commercial Invoice: The commercial invoice is an official document that details the type, quantity, and value of the shipped products. It serves as proof of the transaction with the buyer.
• Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB): A digital customs declaration used for shipments within the scope of micro export. ETGB speeds up customs procedures, especially for small-scale shipments.
• Exporter Association Registration: Companies wishing to export from Türkiye must register with the relevant exporter association. This registration ensures the official recognition of export transactions.
• Packing List: This document, listing the shipped products in detail, is referenced during customs procedures.

What is the Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB) and How Is It Done?

ETGB is a digital document used in the scope of micro export that simplifies customs procedures. It is especially preferred for shipments made via express cargo services. Thanks to ETGB, exporting companies can avoid complex customs procedures and complete their transactions quickly.

How Is It Arranged? Logistics companies prepare the ETGB based on information received from the exporter. The product details, shipment information, and recipient details are entered into the system to generate the document.

Terms of Use: ETGB is mandatory for shipments not exceeding 300 kilograms and 15,000 Euros in value. For shipments above these limits, a traditional customs declaration is required.

How to Do E-Export? Step-by-Step Guide

E-export is a trade model that enables businesses to sell their products and services abroad via digital platforms. To achieve a successful e-export process, several key steps should be followed:

• 1. Target Market Research: The first step is to identify countries where there is demand for your products. By conducting target market research, you can analyze customer needs and the competitive landscape.
• 2. Product and Pricing Strategy: It is important to select products and set competitive prices suitable for your target market. This both increases your preference among customers and forms the basis for long-term success.
• 3. Choosing an E-Commerce Platform: You can sell via international platforms such as Amazon, eBay, Etsy, or your own e-commerce site. Ensure that the platform you choose matches your customer base.
• 4. Logistics and Shipping Processes: By working with reliable logistics companies, you can deliver your products abroad quickly and safely. With ETGB for micro export, procedures become much easier.
• 5. Digital Marketing and Promotion: To be visible in global markets, effectively use digital marketing tools such as Google Ads, social media advertising, and SEO.

Advantages of E-Export: Ways to Enter the Global Market

E-export offers many advantages that facilitate businesses’ entry into the global market. Here are the most important advantages of e-export:

• Global Access: E-export enables your business to reach millions of customers worldwide, helping you overcome local market limitations.
• Low Cost: Compared to traditional export, you can enter global markets with lower logistics and operational costs. Customs and logistics are less costly thanks to micro export.
• 24/7 Open Store: With e-export, you can offer your products to customers worldwide at any hour. You have the opportunity to make sales even in different time zones.
• Brand Awareness: International sales increase your brand awareness and help you gain a stronger position in the global market.
• Flexible Business Models: E-export offers a wide range of business models. You can sell directly to consumers or choose alternative methods such as dropshipping.

Disadvantages of E-Export: Risks to Watch Out For

While e-export offers businesses the opportunity to access the global market, it also brings some risks. These risks can range from operational processes to customer satisfaction. Here are the main disadvantages to consider:

• Logistics Problems: Issues such as longer delivery times or damaged products can occur when shipping products abroad. This can negatively affect customer satisfaction.
• Cultural and Language Differences: Understanding the expectations of customers in different countries can be challenging. Therefore, it is important to develop strategies suitable for the cultural and language differences of your target market.
• Legal Regulations: Every country has different import and export rules. Detailed research is required to comply with these regulations; otherwise, issues such as products being held at customs may arise.
• Costs: Additional costs may arise for logistics, marketing, and operational processes. Also, you should consider the risk of exchange rate fluctuations when dealing with different currencies.

Why Should You Do E-Export? Open the Doors to the Global Market

E-export offers new opportunities and income sources for businesses. Here are the main advantages of e-export:

• Global Access: E-export enables businesses to reach millions of customers worldwide, allowing you to go beyond local market boundaries and reach a wider audience.
• 24/7 Sales Opportunity: Thanks to digital platforms, e-export allows your business to be open at all hours. Customers can buy your products even in different time zones.
• Brand Awareness: International trade makes your business known on a global scale. This increases your brand’s reputation in the long run and provides a competitive advantage.
• Government Incentives: In Türkiye, there are various incentives and support programs for businesses engaged in e-export. These supports help reduce your costs.

How to Start E-Export? Step-by-Step Starter Guide

Starting e-export is a major step in opening your business to the global market. Here are the steps to follow in this process:

• 1. Determine Your Target Market: Analyze the countries where your products are likely to be in demand. Choosing your target market is critical for a successful e-export process.
• 2. Prepare Your Products: Make your products compliant with international standards. Pay attention to labeling, packaging, and quality standards.
• 3. Choose an E-Commerce Platform: You can use international platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Etsy or create your own e-commerce website. When choosing a platform, consider your target audience’s shopping habits.
• 4. Plan Logistics and Customs Processes: Work with reliable logistics companies to ensure your products reach customers on time and without problems. You can use ETGB to simplify customs procedures.
• 5. Create a Digital Marketing Strategy: Use social media ads, Google Ads, and SEO to reach your target audience. Digital visibility is important to increase your sales.

What Can You Sell for E-Export? Most Popular Products

E-export offers the opportunity to enter international markets with a wide range of products. However, choosing the right product is one of the most important factors for success. Here are the most preferred product categories in e-export:

• Fashion and Textiles: Fashion products such as clothing, shoes, and accessories are among the most preferred categories in e-export. Especially Turkish quality textile products are in high demand in global markets.
• Cosmetics and Personal Care: Organic and natural cosmetic products are increasingly in demand worldwide. Turkish bath products, soaps, and care oils stand out in this category.
• Food Products: Olive oil, spices, dried fruits, and Turkish desserts have a significant market share in e-export. These are ideal products for customers interested in Turkish cuisine.
• Home Decoration: Carpets, rugs, ceramics, and handmade decorative items are frequently preferred by international customers, standing out for their cultural and aesthetic value.
• Electronic Products: Smartphone accessories, small home appliances, and personal electronic devices appeal to a broad customer base in global markets.

Government Support Programs and Grants for E-Export

There are various government support programs for businesses engaged in e-export in Türkiye. These supports aim to increase the competitiveness of businesses in international markets and reduce their costs.

• Overseas Market Research Support: The Ministry of Trade provides financial support to businesses for overseas market research. This support helps you better understand your target market.
• Advertising and Promotion Support: Incentives are provided for digital advertising and promotional activities carried out abroad. You can benefit from these supports for social media campaigns, Google Ads, and other digital advertising platforms.
• Logistics Support: There is government support for logistics costs incurred when shipping products abroad. This is a significant advantage especially for businesses engaged in micro export.
• Membership Support for E-Commerce Platforms: Government incentives for joining international platforms such as Amazon, eBay, and Alibaba help e-export businesses gain visibility in global markets.
• Branding and Overseas Fair Support: Financial support is provided for participating in international fairs and branding activities. These supports ensure your business is recognized in global markets.

What is Micro Export? E-Export Method for Small Businesses

Micro export is an export model that facilitates the overseas sale of products by small and medium-sized enterprises. This model is valid for shipments not exceeding 300 kilograms and 15,000 Euros, and is especially supported by the ETGB (Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration).

• Advantages of Micro Export: Micro export provides major advantages for businesses thanks to low logistics costs and fast customs procedures. It covers sales to both individual consumers (B2C) and small wholesale buyers (B2B).
• Fast Customs Procedures: Micro export digitizes and accelerates customs processes through ETGB. This allows businesses to deliver products to customers faster.
• Opportunities for Small Businesses: Micro export enables participation in international markets without the need for large-scale investments, helping small businesses achieve growth and globalization goals.

What Products Can Be Shipped Under Micro Export?

Micro export is a method carried out within certain weight and value limits. This model offers great opportunities for certain categories of products, usually those that are portable, durable, and in high demand.

• Fashion and Accessories: Clothing, bags, shoes, and accessories are among the most preferred categories in micro export. These products are advantageous due to their light weight and global demand.
• Electronic Products: Small home appliances, smartphone accessories, and personal technological devices are frequently shipped under micro export.
• Handicrafts and Gift Items: Handmade decorative products, souvenirs, and cultural objects attract great interest from international customers.
• Food Products: Olive oil, dried fruits, spices, and packaged foods are preferred in micro export due to their durability and the fame of Turkish cuisine.
• Cosmetics and Personal Care Products: Natural cosmetic and personal care products are in high demand especially in the European and US markets.

Products Not Covered by Micro Export: What to Watch Out For

Micro export does not cover certain product categories. The export of these products may violate international trade rules or the regulations of the importing country. Here are the main products that cannot be shipped under micro export:

• Hazardous Materials: Hazardous products such as flammable, explosive, and toxic substances cannot be shipped under micro export. Exporting these types of products requires special permits and certifications.
• Live Animals and Plants: Live animals, seeds, and certain agricultural products are excluded from micro export due to quarantine requirements.
• Prescription Drugs and Medical Products: Medicines, medical devices, and health products are not included in micro export as they require special permits and additional regulations.
• Cultural and Historical Artifacts: Exporting cultural heritage artifacts from Türkiye is legally restricted. Special permits are required to export these products.

Checking whether your products comply with the regulations of the importing country before shipment will help prevent potential issues in the process.

Required Documents and Procedures for Micro Export

Certain documents must be prepared for the legal execution of the micro export process. These documents are important for compliance with the regulations of both the exporting and importing countries.

• Tax Certificate: A document proving that the business operates legally. Micro export is not possible without a tax certificate.
• Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB): One of the key documents of micro export, ETGB enables fast and smooth completion of customs procedures. This document is usually prepared by logistics companies.
• Commercial Invoice: A document that includes the price, quantity, and delivery address of the products. The commercial invoice is a fundamental reference for both the buyer and customs procedures.
• Packing List: A document that includes the type, quantity, and packaging details of the shipped products. This document is highly important during customs inspections.
• Transport Documents: Transport documents issued by the cargo company ensure that products reach abroad safely. These documents serve as a reference for both the exporter and the logistics company.

Preparing all documents completely ensures a fast and smooth micro export process. Also, acting in accordance with customs regulations plays a critical role in preventing possible delays.

Advantages of Micro Export: Growth Opportunities for Small Exports

Micro export offers small and medium-sized businesses the opportunity to participate in international markets. Compared to traditional export processes, it is easier and less costly, providing significant advantages for businesses.

• Low Costs: Micro export is conducted with lower costs in terms of logistics and customs procedures, which is a major advantage, especially for small businesses with limited budgets.
• Fast Customs Procedures: Customs procedures are expedited by using the Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB) in micro export. Thus, products reach customers more quickly.
• Access to Global Markets: Micro export allows businesses to enter international markets. This way, you can expand your customer base and increase your revenue.
• Flexibility: Micro export is ideal for small orders, allowing you to test the market and try your products in different markets without making large stock investments.

Invoicing and Legal Requirements in Micro Export

Certain documents must be prepared for the proper execution of legal procedures in micro export. These documents include commercial invoices and ETGB.

• Issuing Commercial Invoice: The commercial invoice should include the type, quantity, and value of the shipped products. Buyer information and delivery details should also be present on the invoice.
• Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB): This document, mandatory in micro export transactions, ensures that customs procedures are completed quickly and digitally.
• VAT Exemption: Products shipped under micro export are generally exempt from VAT, which is a major cost advantage for businesses.
• Legal Compliance: Businesses engaged in micro export must comply with the trade and tax regulations of the countries where they operate. This is critical to avoid possible penalties.

What Products Can You Sell via Micro Export? Most Preferred Products

Products suitable for micro export are generally light, portable, and durable. Here are the most preferred product categories in micro export:

• Fashion and Accessories: Clothing, shoes, bags, and accessories are popular products for micro export. Especially Turkish textile products are in high demand worldwide.
• Cosmetics and Personal Care: Natural cosmetic products have a large customer base, especially in Europe and the US.
• Food Products: Olive oil, spices, dried fruits, and Turkish desserts are frequently preferred in micro export.
• Electronic Products: Smartphone accessories, small home appliances, and personal electronic devices appeal to a wide customer base in global markets.
• Home Decoration: Handmade decorative items, carpets, and ceramics attract great interest from international customers.

The Cost of Micro Export: The Economic Aspect of E-Export

Micro export provides an economical solution for small and medium-sized businesses. However, there are certain cost items to be considered in this process:

• Logistics Costs: Logistics costs in micro export may vary depending on the product’s weight, size, and the country of delivery. Working with a reliable logistics company allows you to optimize your costs.
• Customs and Tax Fees: Micro export transactions are usually carried out with low customs charges, but it is important to check the import taxes of the target country in advance.
• Digital Marketing Expenses: You may need to invest in marketing tools such as digital ads, SEO activities, and social media campaigns to reach your target audience.
• Platform Commissions: Businesses selling on platforms like Amazon or eBay pay certain commissions. Planning for these expenses in advance is important.

Micro export provides businesses with the opportunity to enter international markets with low initial costs. With proper planning and cost management, you can get the most out of this process.

Micro Export with Demresa: Easy and Fast Export Solutions

Demresa offers fast and easy solutions for businesses engaged in micro export, enabling participation in international markets. The professional support provided in logistics, customs, and delivery processes contributes to business growth.

• Fast Logistics Services: Demresa offers reliable logistics solutions that ensure products reach customers in the shortest possible time. Customized services for target markets increase customer satisfaction.
• Digital Customs Procedures: One of the biggest advantages of micro export, the Electronic Commerce Customs Declaration (ETGB), is quickly and smoothly processed by Demresa, simplifying customs procedures for businesses.
• Expert Support: Demresa’s expert team guides businesses at every step, ensuring a smooth e-export process. Process management is a great convenience, especially for new businesses.

Differences Between E-Export and E-Commerce: Which Method is Right for You?

E-export and e-commerce are two different business models that involve selling via digital platforms. However, the main differences between these methods may vary depending on the business’s objectives and customer base.

• E-Commerce: E-commerce is a model focused on local markets for selling products or services. It is an ideal solution for businesses serving a local customer base.
• E-Export: E-export involves selling products to international customers. It is a suitable method for businesses seeking to enter global markets and includes additional procedures such as customs and logistics.
• Target Audience: While e-commerce generally focuses on local customers, e-export targets international customers. You can choose either method depending on your business’s growth objectives.
• Operational Processes: Logistics and customs procedures are more complex in e-export and require professional support. E-commerce, on the other hand, is a simpler and faster model.

Key Differences Between E-Export and Traditional Export: Which Option is More Advantageous?

E-export and traditional export are two different models of international trade. Their processes and advantages may differ based on the needs of the business.

• Traditional Export: Traditional export usually involves sending large-volume products abroad. This model, which takes place through wholesale and distributors, is more suitable for large businesses.
• E-Export: E-export enables small and medium-sized businesses to sell products to individual customers. It is carried out at lower costs, especially under micro export.
• Costs and Challenges: Traditional export requires high initial costs and complex logistics procedures. E-export is a more accessible method, facilitated by digital platforms and ETGB.
• Marketing and Distribution: In traditional export, products are usually sold wholesale, while e-export allows direct sales to individual customers. This offers a chance to appeal to a wider customer base.

What is a Customs Tariff Statistical Position (GTIP) Code? Its Role in the Export Process

The Customs Tariff Statistical Position (GTIP) code is a 12-digit code used to classify and identify products in international trade. This code ensures compliance with the trade policies of each country and enables customs procedures to be conducted in an orderly manner. In Türkiye, GTIP codes are regulated and monitored by the Ministry of Trade.

• The Importance of the GTIP Code: GTIP codes ensure that products are correctly identified in export and import transactions. They play a critical role in determining customs duty rates, applying tariff regulations, and compiling trade statistics.
• Advantages of Using the Correct GTIP Code: Correct classification of products helps prevent issues in both exporting and importing countries. Using the correct GTIP code reduces the risk of products being held at customs and speeds up trade transactions.
• How is the GTIP Code Determined? When determining the GTIP code, factors such as the product’s material, intended use, and technical specifications are considered. For example, different codes are used for textile products, electronic devices, or food items. In Türkiye, these codes can be checked via the “Turkish Customs Tariff Schedule.”
• Its Role in the Export Process: During export, the GTIP code is included in the customs declaration and serves as a fundamental reference for the classification of products. Using an incorrect code may result in products being held at customs, higher tax rates, or penalties.
• The Effect of the GTIP Code in International Trade: GTIP codes are regulated based on the “Harmonized System” (HS) created by the World Customs Organization (WCO). This ensures that products are classified in accordance with international trade standards and facilitates trade.