Expanding into international markets used to be a logistical nightmare, with sky-high costs and complex requirements, from localizing offerings to compliance with local laws. However, advancements in online retail technology have made cross-border ecommerce easier and more accessible than ever.

In November 2024, we set out to conduct one of the largest surveys into the ecommerce landscape, gathering responses from over 8,000 participants and 400 executives across North America, Europe, and Australia. Over 70% of businesses reported excitement about expanding operations internationally in 2025, with 32% of them already having firm plans in place.

In this blog, we’re going to put the insights to work, offering guidance on how modern ecommerce technologies can simplify your international expansion.

The Challenges of Cross-Border Ecommerce

Many businesses often restrict themselves to local markets because international ecommerce has traditionally come with significant challenges. However, the first step to overcoming any obstacle is understanding what stands in your way.

Regulatory Hurdles: Whether it’s import taxes, customs duties, or strict regulations on manufacturing, different countries can have wildly different laws that you’ll need to abide by in order to avoid fines and bans. Without the right tools, navigating these requirements can quickly become a time-consuming and costly endeavor.
Logistics Complexity: Managing international shipping, fulfillment, returns, and the associated transactions across multiple countries often requires working with multiple carriers and financial institutions. This can result in inefficient workflows and missed opportunities, especially when trying to scale your operations.
Localization Issues: Adapting to foreign markets goes beyond regulatory compliance. You’ll need to tailor your product listings, currencies, website, and customer support systems to meet the specific needs of each region. This can be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with local consumer behaviors and preferences.
Consumer Expectations: Regardless of locality, customers worldwide expect fast and reliable service. Our survey found that 55% of respondents under 35 said they prioritize delivery speed, with 62% highlighting convenience as their main interest.

How Technology Is Simplifying Global Ecommerce

With 96% of retailers incorporating AI into their ecommerce operations, many are turning to various technological solutions to streamline their expansion efforts. Those identified as “Tech Trailblazers” are experiencing the most success in leveraging these tools for cross-border growth. There are 3 key ways technology is simplifying global ecommerce:

1. Automating Cross-Border Logistics & Fulfillment

AI-powered supply chain management solutions are revolutionizing how businesses manage their cross-border operations. Inventory management and distribution can now be automated, improving efficiency and reducing the likelihood of human error. AI also optimizes the fastest and most cost-effective routes for last-mile delivery, saving both time and money.

Third-party software solutions like ShipStation, combined with online marketplaces like Amazon Global Selling, offer business access to regional warehouses and micro-fulfillment centers across the globe. Prioritizing real-time tracking and delivery transparency is crucial, as consumers value these aspects highly when making purchasing decisions.

2. Simplifying Compliance & Tax Management

Tools like Avalara and TaxJar provide hassle-free VAT and customs management in multiple regions, further removing barriers to international growth. AI-driven algorithms help detect fraudulent activity, safeguarding your business against scams and minimizing risks.

Other solutions include digital identity verification and compliance tracking. By keeping records of all parties involved in a purchase, you’re better able to meet regional regulations.

3. Localizing the Customer Experience with AI & Automation

AI and automation play a pivotal role in overcoming the final localization challenges for businesses, particularly small ones. Real-time product page translations powered by AI and automated currency conversions according to market rates can improve your customer’s experience and increase conversion rates.

Fraud detection and active transaction monitoring are essential when providing goods and services abroad. This is particularly important when adopting a variety of region-specific payment options like WeChat, Alipay, Klarna, and Mercado Pago. These tools help ensure secure, seamless transactions across borders.

There’s also the classical use of AI in customer support. Multilingual chatbots mean you can respond to customer questions instantaneously, providing customized solutions and improving the overall customer experience.

Key Technology Tools for Seamless Global Expansion

Thanks to an evergrowing interest in the ecommerce market, there’s been a plethora of pre-made tools facilitating global expansion for online retailers, the most prominent being:

Ecommerce Platforms & Marketplaces: Established platforms come with existing credibility, making it easier to break into new markets. Popular solutions include Shopify Plus, BigCommerce, and Amazon Global Selling.
Logistics & Fulfillment Solutions: International shipping companies typically have industry contacts and local relations established, allowing them to get the best rates, like ShipStation, DHL Cross-Border Solutions, and FedEx International.
AI & Personalization Tools: Machine learning and AI allow for more flexibility when on a tight budget, especially when those solutions are trained on ecommerce customer data, like Dynamic Yield, Rebuy, and Klevu.
Compliance & Tax Management: Knowledge of tax laws is a must for conducting any business online. Stick to reputable solutions such as Avalara, TaxJar, and Global-e to ensure compliance with international tax regulations.

3 Future Trends in Cross-Border Ecommerce Technology

2025 marks the beginning of an exciting new phase for the ecommerce market, one that’s expected to mature rapidly in the coming years. Businesses are seizing this opportunity to invest in innovative cross-border ecommerce technology to meet the growing demand.

Blockchain for Transparency and Security

Tech giants like IBM are already investing in blockchain to speed up and simplify international transactions. This comes with the added benefit of supply chain transparency and customer privacy, addressing key concerns for younger generations who prioritize security and ethical business practices.

AI-Powered Dynamic Pricing

As AI continues to grow smarter with more targeted training data, algorithms can optimize real-time pricing strategies. By analyzing international market data in real time, an AI-driven approach can help you stay ahead of the competition at all times.

Sustainable Logistics Solutions

With younger consumers, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, placing a high priority on sustainability, businesses are turning to automated logistics software that offers carbon-neutral solutions. These solutions optimize delivery routes and secure favorable deals with shipping companies, all while reducing the environmental impact and maintaining a positive customer experience. Around 5% of consumers report that eco-friendly delivery is a top priority.

What’s Next to Come in Cross-Border Ecommerce

Going international used to be reserved for mega-corporations with the resources to cover upfront costs, but thanks to technology, cross-border ecommerce is now open to all. From logistics and regulatory compliance to localization, everything can be automated with third-party software or specialized AI-powered algorithms.

Companies investing heavily in new tech for their global expansions are witnessing 3x the growth rate. Join the revolution, and start by getting an evaluation of your tech stack to see how you can best invest in automation and AI-driven solutions for seamless international expansion. Download the Ecommerce Delivery Benchmark 2025 Report for free today to get started.