Cross-Border E-commerce Myths Debunked: What You Should Know
If you’ve been hearing things like “Build a site and start making dollars,” I suggest you pause and think for a moment. The idea of cross-border e-commerce is exciting, but it’s not as easy or lucrative as some might claim—especially if you’re just getting started. Let me share some hard truths I’ve learned along the way, so you can make a better-informed decision.
1. Is Cross-Border E-commerce Really as Easy as They Say?
Short answer: No. While flashy ads and stories of people making thousands of dollars a month sound tempting, they rarely give you the full picture. Behind those “success stories” are high costs—advertising, traffic acquisition, and marketing efforts that demand continuous investment. Those promoting “easy profits” often skip the part about the financial and time commitments required to make it work.
2. Can You Actually Make Money Doing This?
Yes, but here’s the catch: the road is full of risks. Account bans, changing platform policies, and operational errors can wipe out your hard work overnight. While some people make impressive profits, they represent a small percentage. For most, the road to success is long, unpredictable, and requires constant effort.
3. Which Platform Should You Use to Build Your Website?
When it comes to building an e-commerce website, there are typically two main options:
• Self-hosted platforms like WordPress
• SaaS platforms like Shopify
WordPress enthusiasts often highlight its flexibility and ownership benefits. But here’s the thing: if you’re not tech-savvy, WordPress can feel overwhelming. You’ll have to handle server rentals, plugins, backend maintenance, and even coding. These tasks can quickly take up your time and resources.
For most beginners, SaaS platforms like Shopify are a better fit. Why? They handle most of the backend headaches for you—server management, updates, security—allowing you to focus on running your business. Shopify might cost more upfront, but it saves you from the technical nightmares that can derail your progress.
Here’s a lesson from my personal experience: some companies promising to build websites for you can’t even get their own websites right. I once discovered a company in Wuhan, China, using content from my website without permission to promote their services. Out of curiosity, I checked their own site—and was shocked to see how poorly it was designed. It’s a stark reminder to always check the credentials of those you’re entrusting with your business.
4. Where Does Your Website Traffic Come From?
Traffic is the backbone of e-commerce. Without it, your website is just a digital storefront that no one visits. Generating traffic requires expertise in SEO, digital advertising, and ongoing optimization. If you’re unfamiliar with these concepts, getting started can feel overwhelming. And let me be honest: without traffic, the dream of “making thousands” is just that—a dream.
5. What Should You Do If You’re New?
If you’re new to cross-border e-commerce, here’s my advice: start small. Platforms like Amazon, AliExpress, Temu, or SHEIN are great for beginners. These full-service or semi-managed platforms let you dip your toes into the world of cross-border sales without worrying about technical details or heavy investments.
If you’re set on building your own website, remember this: a SaaS platform like Shopify is your best bet. Building a site is just the starting point; operating it successfully is an ongoing journey. You’ll need to continually refine your strategies, learn from mistakes, and adapt to the ever-changing landscape of e-commerce. Success won’t come overnight, but with persistence, it’s possible to carve out a place in this competitive industry.