Whistl Parcels, the leading delivery management company in the UK, surveyed international online consumers to understand whether Brexit is expected to affect their purchasing behaviour once the transition period ends on 31 December 2020.
The findings highlight clear differences in perception between European, UK and international shoppers—and underline the importance of transparent, well-managed cross-border delivery for UK e‑tailers.
European Shoppers Expect Slower UK Deliveries
European respondents believe Brexit will lead to slower delivery times for goods shipped from the UK:
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Germany: 34%
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France: 27%
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Ireland: 24%
UK respondents were more divided, with 22% believing there would be no impact, and an equal 22% expecting slower delivery times.
By contrast, respondents in Australia and the United States generally had no strong view either way. However, in both markets, more consumers believe delivery from the UK will not slow down compared with those who think it will.
Concerns over Choice and Availability of UK Goods
Consumers across Europe strongly feel that Brexit will result in less choice of UK goods available online.
UK shoppers, however, were evenly split:
This contrast highlights the potential challenge UK retailers face in reassuring European customers that range and availability will be maintained.
Expectations of Higher Prices Post-Brexit
Across all EU countries surveyed, significantly more respondents believe British products will become more expensive, rather than cheaper, following Brexit.
UK online shoppers also expect rising costs, with more consumers believing that products imported into the UK will increase in price compared with those expecting prices to fall.
Again, Australian and US respondents showed less certainty. However, more Australian consumers expect UK products to become more expensive than cheaper.
What This Means for International E-Tailers
Melanie Darvall, Director of Marketing & Communications at Whistl Parcels, commented:
“With the end of the Brexit transition period, international e‑tailers must stay closely aligned to trade negotiations—not only with the EU, but also with markets where free trade deals are being discussed, such as the USA and Australia.
“Our research shows that UK e‑tailers will need to work harder to reassure European consumers that British products will continue to offer good value and a strong range of choice. In the USA and Australia, potential free trade agreements present an opportunity to highlight increased availability and better value from UK merchants.
“It’s also vital for e‑tailers to work with delivery partners who truly understand international shipping. At Whistl Parcels, we help simplify international delivery and customs processes, reducing friction and speeding up the journey from despatch to doorstep.”
For deeper insight into how international shoppers view cross‑border eCommerce, download our guide to international online consumer behaviour.
