With the rise of e-commerce, the concept of "micro-exporting" has gained unprecedented importance. This method, which offers significant opportunities, particularly for SMEs and entrepreneurs, enables expansion into foreign markets at low cost. But what is micro-exporting, how is it done, and how does the process work? Let's examine all the details.
What is Micro-Export?
Unlike traditional exports, micro-export refers to the electronic declaration and shipment of overseas sales below a certain value and weight. It is a method used in Turkey for sending products worth up to 15,000 euros and weighing up to 300 kilograms abroad. It offers significant convenience to small-scale businesses and individuals engaged in e-commerce. It is an ideal opportunity, especially for SMEs wishing to enter international markets. Thanks to the micro-trade model, exports can be made without having to deal with costly customs procedures. Many of the documents and processes required in traditional export processes have been simplified in micro-export. This saves time and money while facilitating access to global markets.
How Does the Micro-Export Process Work?
The micro-export process is not as complicated as it may seem. This system, generally designed for individual entrepreneurs and small businesses, forms the basis of cross-border e-commerce. The process consists of five main steps and proceeds systematically. Firstly:
Order Receipt: Orders are received from your e-commerce site or digital marketplaces.
Invoice Issuance: An electronic trade customs declaration (ETGB) is used for micro-exports. Therefore, an e-invoice or e-archive invoice must be issued.
Courier Company Procedures: Contracted courier companies arrange the ETGB to ensure your shipment clears customs.
Shipping: The product is dispatched to the recipient country.
Income Recording: Sales made through micro-export are officially considered exports as they generate foreign exchange.
What are Micro Export Documents?
There are certain documents required when conducting micro-exports. Micro-export documents include the following, and preparing these documents correctly is crucial for the process to proceed smoothly. E-invoices or e-archive invoices are essential documents that must be present in micro-export transactions. The export information form (prepared by the shipping company) and the ETGB document (issued by the shipping company) are other critical documents in the micro-export process. The export information form contains detailed information about the shipped product, while the ETGB (Electronic Trade Customs Declaration) enables customs procedures to be carried out electronically. If the country you are shipping to has specific requirements, additional documents may also be required. The documents required for micro-export are much fewer than those required for traditional export, which provides companies with a significant time advantage. Thanks to this advantage, small and medium-sized enterprises can more easily enter international markets.
What are the Advantages of Micro-Exporting?
Micro-exporting offers numerous advantages, particularly for small businesses. Here are some of the key benefits of micro-exporting:
The high customs costs encountered in traditional export methods are eliminated with micro-export. Accessing international markets becomes more affordable for small businesses. Thanks to the ETGB (Electronic Trade Customs Declaration), documents can be prepared quickly and easily in an electronic environment.
Another significant advantage of micro-export is that the sales made are counted as exports. It offers businesses the opportunity to earn foreign exchange. In addition, the possibility of claiming VAT refunds within the scope of export transactions positively impacts businesses' cash flow. Small businesses have the opportunity to find customers in different countries at low costs, which helps them increase their market share.
Sectors Suitable for Micro-Export
Not every product group may be suitable for micro-export. However, some sectors use this method much more actively. Fashion and textile products offer an ideal field for micro-export due to their appeal to a wide customer base worldwide. Products such as jewellery and accessories can also benefit from the advantages of micro-export thanks to their light weight and high demand. Cosmetics and personal care products are important in micro-export due to consumers' constant search for innovation. Handmade products attract attention in international markets thanks to their unique designs. Electronic accessories and decorative home products are also among the sectors suitable for micro-export due to their lightweight nature and wide range of applications. Micro-export is much more advantageous for lightweight and high-demand products. Entrepreneurs in these sectors have a great opportunity to expand into international markets by taking advantage of micro-export opportunities.
What is the biggest difference between micro-export and traditional export?
ETGB is used in micro-exports, which simplifies procedures and saves time. Exports can be made with less paperwork and lower costs, enabling even small businesses to easily engage in international trade. In traditional exports, however, it is necessary to work with a customs consultant and complete more procedures, which makes the process longer and more complex.
What Role Do Freight Companies Play in Micro-Exports?
In micro-exports, freight forwarders facilitate the process by arranging ETGBs, handling customs procedures and managing logistics operations. They ensure the customs clearance of your goods and optimise the delivery process. In the international trade process, freight forwarders act as key partners for micro-exporters, organising the delivery to the buyer.
