DHL Express survey highlights the resilience and growth potential within the e-commerce sector

DHL Express 2024 E-Commerce Survey  has been published, revealing insights from over 1,000 SMEs across the US on how they prioritise e-commerce today, and their perceived opportunities and challenges for the rest of the year.

• Election Impact: 65% of respondents said the U.S. presidential election candidates’ stances on international trade will affect their vote.
• Optimism Despite Challenges: 65% expect their e-commerce sales to increase YOY (2023 vs. 2024), with 24% expecting a significant increase
• Top Concerns: 40% of respondents view shipping costs as the biggest threat to their business, while 38% identify inflation as their primary challenge.
• Global Expansion: Over half of the survey respondents (53%) see international growth as the biggest opportunity for e-commerce business, targeting the EU, UK, Mexico, and Canada.

Despite economic challenges, e-commerce business outlook is optimistic.

The outlook for e-commerce sales in 2024 remains optimistic among SMEs. According to the survey, a significant 65% of respondents anticipate that their e-commerce sales will increase year-over-year (2023 vs. 2024), with 24% expecting a significant increase and 41% predicting a slight increase. This positive sentiment highlights the resilience and growth potential within the e-commerce sector, as businesses continue to adapt and find new ways to thrive in the fluctuating environment. Only 6% of respondents foresee a decrease year-over-year, indicating a strong overall confidence in the continued expansion of online sales.

Inflation and shipping costs remain a strong concern.

Inflation and shipping costs are prominent concerns for e-commerce businesses today. The survey reveals that 40% of respondents view shipping costs as the biggest threat to their business, while 38% identify inflation as their primary challenge. Likewise, 60% of respondents note that inflation is the top issue they will be following for the rest of the year, compared to other subjects like the presidential election, AI regulation and ESG regulation. These concerns overshadow other issues, like cybersecurity and global conflicts. The rising costs of goods and supply chain needs are putting pressure on profit margins, forcing businesses to find innovative solutions to manage expenses and maintain competitiveness in the market.

International business growth is a top priority for SMEs.

International expansion is a key focus for SMEs in 2024. Over half of the survey respondents (53%) see international growth as the biggest opportunity for their e-commerce business. This is further supported by their priority markets for expansion, with 43% targeting the EU and UK, and 29% looking towards Mexico and Canada. This emphasis on international growth reflects a business desire to diversify markets and tap into new customer bases, leveraging global e-commerce trends to drive future success. Likewise, 43% of respondents share that international delivery speed is the most important service benefit DHL offers, followed by flexible delivery options (24%.) As businesses look to expand globally, customs compliance also remains top of mind, with multiple SMEs noting that compliance with destination customs to streamline clearance will be key to market growth.

International trade views will affect the way businesses vote in the 2024 U.S. presidential election.

The views of U.S. presidential candidates on international trade are poised to significantly influence voting decisions among business owners. According to the survey, 65% of respondents agree that the candidates’ stances on international trade will affect their vote, with 23% strongly agreeing. This underscores the importance of international trade policies in shaping the business environment, as e-commerce businesses seek to navigate and capitalize on global market opportunities. The focus on trade views highlights the interconnectedness of politics and business strategies in the current economic climate.

Overall, SMEs remain optimistic about the potential for e-commerce growth despite the economic hurdles. A combination of international delivery speed, flexibility and customs expertise form the backbone of DHL’s reliable delivery services for SMEs, all of which are fundamental in supporting e-commerce growth. DHL is dedicated to adeptly navigating hot spots and exhibiting flexibility to re-route shipments when necessary, ensuring that deliveries are made precisely when and where customers require them. Furthermore, DHL’s expertise in handling customs complexities helps businesses avoid delays and smoothly navigate regulations, facilitating seamless international expansion. These elements collectively enable SMEs to thrive in a dynamic e-commerce landscape.