How to sell abroad: logistics and payment for goods

More and more Ukrainian entrepreneurs seek to enter the international market. Ukrainian goods attract interest abroad, and technology simplifies every stage of sales: from creating an online storefront to delivery and payment. However, to sell abroad successfully, it is necessary to take into account many nuances: logistics, customs regulations, currency control, and correct processing of payments.

What is needed to start sales abroad

To understand how to sell abroad and achieve a stable profit at the same time, it is important to take the first steps correctly, which will help to avoid financial losses and unpleasant surprises. The more carefully you plan the start and take into account technical nuances, the fewer risks will arise in the process of working with international clients, partners, and regulatory authorities. Preparation for export of goods from Ukraine includes legal registration, market analysis, selection of sales channels, and creation of a convenient infrastructure for sales, including logistics and financial instruments.

Legal registration of business

For legal trade at the international level, it is necessary to have the registered status of an entrepreneur, which ensures the legality of operations and opens access to the global financial infrastructure. The easiest option for a small business is registration of a sole proprietorship, which allows for quick setup and export of goods from Ukraine without an excessive bureaucratic burden. At the same time, it is important to choose the right KVEDs that allow you to engage in export activities. To sell abroad, it is necessary to obtain official business registration, after which you can conclude international contracts, cooperate with marketplaces and open currency accounts to receive payment.

Selection of goods for export

Assess which products may be of interest to the foreign consumer, taking into account local preferences, seasons, trends, and the level of competition. Remember: The export of goods from Ukraine must take into account legal restrictions, customs regulations, certification, and labeling requirements in the country of destination, which may differ significantly from those in Ukraine. Conduct basic research of competitors in the selected market to adapt your offer to its realities, create a competitive price, and appropriate positioning.

Sales channels and access to markets

Explore different venues, as each one offers unique opportunities to expand your geography export of goods from Ukraine and reach the target audience. Each has its own advantages, conditions, limitations, technical requirements for processing good,s and the specifics of working with payment systems. If you are just starting out to sell abroad, it is better to start with one channel and gradually scale up, gaining experience and studying the peculiarities of foreign markets. It is also important to consider language adaptation of content to effectively communicate with customers, increase trust, and facilitate the purchase process.

Preparation of the online site

Your website or page in the marketplace is the face of the brand, the first impression of which is often formed by visual presentation and ease of use. Clear navigation, high-quality photos of products from different angles, responsive design, and description of products in several languages – in English and, if possible, in the target market’s language. Integration with payment systems and delivery services should be planned immediately, allowing you to automate the processes of processing orders. Pay attention to usability: a convenient interface, fast page loading, and a clear structure not only help sell abroad conveniently and easily, but also increase the credibility of you as a seller and reduce the number of abandoned carts.

Setting up logistics and payments

Even the best product won’t sell if the buyer can’t pay for it and get it easily. That is why the convenience and reliability of logistics and payment solutions are of primary importance. Even before starting a business, deciding exactly how you will deliver goods and accept payment is essential — choose partners, check tariffs, and test integration. Consider the popularity of payment tools in the target country, the ability to accept international payments through platforms such as Payoneer, and the available shipping methods depending on the product category. The availability of several payment and delivery options increases the chances of successfully exporting goods from Ukraine and creates a positive user experience. Here are the basic steps:

• Register a sole proprietorship or other form of business activity.
• Choose a product that meets demand abroad and is not subject to export restrictions.
• Prepare a website or an account on marketplaces.
• Set up logistics and payment tools.

Read more about access to international platforms in our article As sell on eBay.

Logistics: how to send goods abroad from Ukraine

When it comes to international trade, where time, reliability and conditions are critical, well-organized delivery becomes one of the most important success factors, contributes to customer satisfaction and adds positive feedback. The choice of a logistics solution for export of goods from Ukraine affects not only the speed of delivery, but also the final costs, taxes, customs clearance and your brand’s image. Different services are suitable for various product categories and markets: what works well for small items on Etsy may not work for bulk shipments on Amazon or Shopify.

Choose delivery according to the type of product, its cost, sales volume, region and buyer’s expectations. Consider the possibility of integrating the chosen service with your online platform, the convenience of tracking parcels, cargo insurance and support in case of returns or losses. Carefully thought-out logistics will allow you sell abroad with the lowest costs.

Main delivery options

To export goods from Ukraine successfully, it is important to choose the right delivery service. Cost, speed, and reliability are key factors influencing the choice. Here are the main options used by Ukrainian exporters.

Method of delivery	In which case is it suitable	Features of delivery	Estimated price*
Ukrposhta	Small in size and inexpensive product	Tracking, delivery 10-20 days. Budget, worldwide coverage	From 5–10 USD for 0.5 kg
New Post Global	Medium and large products	Fast, but more expensive. There is an API, integration with marketplaces	From 15-35 USD for 1 kg
DHL / FedEx / UPS	Premium delivery	High cost. Fast, reliable, there is support documentation	From 40–60 USD per 1 kg
Forwarders	FBA, bulk shipments	Convenient for difficult routes. Warehouse and repackaging services	Individually, depending on the party
Most Express	USA, Canada, Europe	Specializes in deliveries for Ukrainian e-commerce sellers	From 10-20 USD for 1 kg
Shipito / NP Shopping	Working with postal addresses in the USA	For delivery from/to the USA through a virtual address; convenient for dropshipping	From 8-25 USD per parcel
Postal operators of recipient countries	Local deliveries upon arrival in the country	USPS, Deutsche Post, Royal Mail – often cheaper for the last mile	From 3-10 USD per last mile

* Prices are approximate, valid for 2025. Check the tariffs on the carriers’ websites.

Documents for export of goods from Ukraine

For international trade, as well as for a full-fledged launch export of goods from Ukraine, you may need the following documents:

• Invoice — confirms the price and conditions of sale of the goods;
• Packing list (packing list) — details the contents of the parcel for customs control;
• Declaration of customs value — used to assess customs payments;
• Certificates of conformity or quality — if the country of import requires it;
• Export declaration — is processed through customs or with the help of TIR documents.

We recommend contacting a logistics company or customs broker, especially for complex or regular shipments.

How to accept payment for goods from abroad

Safe receipt of payment is one of the main tasks in international trade. The choice of payment system depends on the volume of sales, the target market, and the channel you plan to use to sell abroad. For those who plan to scale export of goods from Ukraine, is especially important to take into account the availability of the selected payment platform in Ukraine, the currency of transactions, the amount of the commission, as well as convenience for the buyer himself.

The main methods of receiving payment at the export of goods from Ukraine

To sell abroad successfully, it is important to choose a convenient and reliable method of receiving payment in advance. Below are the most popular solutions for exporters from Ukraine.

Payment platforms (for example, Payoneer)

• Advantages: direct transfer of funds, convenient integration with large marketplaces (eBay, Amazon, etc.), the possibility of withdrawing funds to a bank account.
  
• Who is suitable for: FOP, small business, freelancers.
  
• Commission: roughly ~1% for the input payment.
  

Bank transfers (international SWIFT transfers)

• Advantages: direct payments from clients to a foreign currency account, legally confirmed terms of cooperation.
  
• Who is suitable for: medium and large businesses, B2B companies.
  
• Commission: $15-25 per incoming transfer.
  

Payment gateways for websites and online stores

• Advantages: quick acceptance of payment by card on the website, convenient connection to CMS, automatic checks and reports.
  
• Who is suitable for: e-commerce, sellers of digital goods, small online stores.
  
• Commission: ~2.5–3%.
  

Invoice platforms with acquiring support

• Advantages: invoice creation, automatic tax accounting, support of international payments, and sometimes registration of business abroad.
  
• Who is suitable for: freelancers, software developers, creators of digital content.
  
• Commission: usually ~3–5%.
  

Cash or instant transfers

• Advantages: speed of receipt, the possibility of working without a bank account.
  
• Who is suitable for: one-off or private orders.
  
• Commission: from 2% + a fixed amount depending on the service.
  

How to issue an invoice correctly

An invoice (invoice) is a key document for settlements with foreign clients, and it is from it that the official payment process begins. If you plan to sell products or services abroad, be sure to learn how to create invoices correctly—this is a guarantee of transparency and trust between you and the buyer.

The invoice must include:

• Issue number and date
  
• Seller and buyer data (company name, address, registration data)
  
• List of products with quantity, price, and units of measurement
  
• Total amount due, currency
  
• Details for payment (banking or payment platforms)

The invoice can be created manually or with the help of specialized platforms like Payoneer, which allow you to automate the process, add a logo, save templates and reduce the risk of errors in details.

📌Banner: Learn more in the invoicing article (link will be added after publication).

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Even experienced entrepreneurs who have already started sell abroad, may face non-obvious difficulties. Errors in paperwork, payment or choice of delivery service can not only delay the shipment, but also cause financial losses or loss of customer trust. Successful export of goods from Ukraine requires a systematic approach and careful attention to each stage — from communication with the buyer to a correctly filled out invoice.

Shipping without documents

One of the most common mistakes is sending goods without an invoice or packing list. Even if the product is inexpensive, the lack of accompanying documentation can cause delays at customs or even its return. To be safe sell abroad, always issue an invoice that shows all the details of the deal, as well as the packing slip – especially for bulk lots.

Lack of verification of accounts in payment systems

Unverified accounts in payment systems are a frequent reason for delayed or canceled payments. If you are just starting out with the export of goods from Ukraine, be sure to complete identity and/or business verification on the Payoneer platform. This will open up access to additional features, reduce the risk of blocking, and increase customer confidence.

Ignoring customs regulations of the destination country

Different countries have restrictions on the import of goods, from a list of prohibited categories to labeling or certification requirements. Before sending the order, check the customs requirements on the websites of the customs authorities of the recipient country or consult with the logisticians. This will help to avoid fines, delays, or confiscation of goods exported from Ukraine.

Use of personal accounts

Accepting international payments to personal accounts is not the best decision, especially if you plan to sell abroad regularly. First, it violates banking regulations. Second, in the event of an audit by tax authorities, questions may arise regarding the origin of the funds. The optimal solution is to open a foreign currency account at the FOP and use specialized payment services.

Tips for scaling international sales

After you have debugged exports of goods from Ukraine and have learned to sell abroad according to all the rules, it’s time to think about business scaling. This involves not only increasing sales volumes but also entering new markets, optimizing processes, and developing the brand outside the country.

Use global platforms

Connecting to such global marketplaces allows you to reach millions of customers in the US, Europe, and Asia. Such platforms have a wide audience, proven buyer protection systems, and advertising capabilities. A Payoneer Store Manager tool for centralized revenue management, analytics, and multi-account integration can be especially useful for exporting goods from Ukraine.

Invest in localization

Product description, SEO, advertising, reviews — everything should be adapted to a particular market’s language and cultural characteristics. This significantly increases brand trust, increases conversion and helps sell abroad without misunderstandings with foreign clients. Localization also allows you to run ads more effectively and attract repeat sales.

Automate logistics and payment

Integration of logistics APIs (for example, Nova Poshta Global or Meest) and a payment service (Payoneer) allows you to reduce the team’s burden, avoid human errors, and ensure smooth operation. In addition, automation reduces order processing time and provides an opportunity to sell abroad with high-quality customer service.

Build brand trust

Reputation is a key asset in international trade. To ensure that your export of goods from Ukraine was successful, provide information about yourself, production photos, and reviews from other customers. Clearly articulate a return policy and offer quality guarantees. Such details often influence a foreign buyer’s decision to make the first order.

Read more in the article How to sell on Amazon: scaling a business with Payoneer

Summary

Entering the international market is an opportunity to scale business and a challenge that requires clear planning and a strategic approach. Exporting goods from Ukraine is becoming increasingly easier thanks to the development of payment platforms, logistics services, and global marketplaces. However, successful international sales are always the result of systematic work: legal preparation, proper logistics organization, compliance with tax regulations, and attention to details.

Remember, it’s better to spend more time preparing than dealing with returns, blocked payments, or customs issues. Pay attention to each stage—selling abroad will become easier and easier after that, and exporting goods from Ukraine will become a profitable direction of your business.

CTA:  Accept payments from international customers – create a Payoneer account and start selling internationally today

FAQ block: Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

• Can I sell goods abroad as an FOP from Ukraine?

Thus, the FOP in Ukraine has the full right to carry out foreign economic activity, including the export of goods. To do this, it is enough to choose the correct KVED, keep records of payments and comply with currency and tax legislation.

• Is it necessary to open a foreign currency bank account?

Yes, if you want to accept payment for goods from abroad legally. A foreign currency account can be opened in almost any Ukrainian bank.

• What documents are required for international shipping?

Be sure to attach the invoice, packing list, and, if necessary, the customs value declaration, quality certificates and export declaration. Most delivery services have templates or helpful instructions on how to fill them out.

• How do I know if my product is approved for export?

Check on the website of the State Customs Service of Ukraine or the Ministry of Economy whether your product is on the list of prohibited or licensed for export. You can also consult a broker or logistics company.

• How to issue an invoice to a foreign client?

You can create an invoice manually (in Word or Excel) or use platforms like Payoneer, which offer ready-made templates. The invoice must contain the following: number, date, details of the parties, list of goods, total amount, currency, and payment details.