FedEx Express partners with Zonos to tackle customs challenges for UK and EU online retailers

FedEx Express has teamed up with Zonos to help UK and EU online retailers by creating transparency on customs processes and charges.

This collaboration emerges at a time when, according to a 2023 study conducted by Juniper Research, cross-border e-commerce transactions are expected to surge by 107%, reaching €3.4 trillion (£2.68 trillion) over the next five years.

A 2021 Statista survey found that 59% of consumers expect to pay additional fees or duties upon delivery that were not previously disclosed to them, and 66% expect their international purchases to arrive later than promised.

By leveraging Zonos’ cross-border technology and FedEx’s logistics network and services, the collaboration addresses customer concerns by helping to eliminate unexpected charges and reduce shipping delays.

Zonos’ automated solutions inform shoppers of the total cost of their purchases, allowing them to pay all duties, taxes, and fees at checkout.

This approach ensures packages are shipped fully prepaid. Combined with the automatic generation of Harmonised System (HS) codes and accurate customs documentation, the customs clearance process is significantly expedited, reducing the risk of packages being held.

FedEx says that it offers transparent delivery costs, including a range of options for delivery of shipments with prepaid customs charges, as well as full tracking.

Additionally, this collaboration offers solutions to automate compliance for cross-border tax scheme collection and remittance, and the EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) requirements, simplifying the regulatory landscape for retailers.

"By joining forces, FedEx and Zonos are paving the way for e-commerce businesses to navigate the complexities of cross-border trade,” says Stijn Meeus, FedEx Express E-commerce Managing Director.

“This collaboration enables our customers to ship more easily and transparently internationally and improve the recipient experience. Together we're unlocking the true potential of e-commerce, one simplified journey at a time.’’ 

“We have always supported FedEx customers selling globally; now it just gets better. The alliance means we can onboard FedEx customers faster and with a more seamless integration than ever before,” says Clint Reid, Founder and CEO at Zonos.

“Cross-border e-commerce is complicated, but with the FedEx alliance, we are taking one more step in making it simpler and easier while enhancing the customer experience and driving growth for our retailers."