Stamford, Conn. – Pitney Bowes Inc. today released a white paper that offers insight into how retailers can break down the shipping barriers that are holding back profitable international growth.

The white paper, entitled "2010 Outlook: International E-Commerce," highlights the fundamental market trends that underpin this explosive growth opportunity. The paper also notes the unique challenges associated with cross border e-commerce.  Customs regulations, import duties, complex shipping rules, foreign taxes and the lack of in-country services represent bona fide challenges. In addition, the white paper discusses how new Web-based technologies can help simplify these issues, and turn the historically complex cross border sale of goods into a real opportunity.

"Retailers looking to tap into the enormous growth potential of international e-commerce no longer need to navigate the complexities alone," said Leslie Abi-Karam, Pitney Bowes executive vice president and president, mailstream solutions management. "The retailers we work with understand that new technologies and international shipping services have greatly reduced logistics barriers.  That frees them up to concentrate on sales, marketing and merchandising."

Understanding and managing the challenges of international shipping are also critical for success.  A few of the key areas the white paper explores include:
 - Complying with local laws and regulations;  
- Managing shipments across multiple carriers and multiple posts;  
- Handling international duties and taxes;
- Setting up an international returns and special handling process; and
- Maintaining a positive customer experience.

The white paper also offers insight on how to build expertise on international shipping without building infrastructure, as well as suggestions for overall profitability and growth once an organization is ready to sell internationally.