Whether you should invest in local warehouses in other countries or continue shipping products overseas to your international customers depends on several factors. Here are some considerations to help you make the decision:

Market Demand: Evaluate the demand for your products in the international markets you are targeting. If there is consistent and substantial demand, it may justify the investment in local warehouses.

Shipping Costs: Consider the cost of shipping products overseas. International shipping costs can be high, and they may vary based on the destination, package size, and shipping method. Import duties and taxes may also apply. Local warehouses can help reduce shipping costs and transit times.

Customs and Import Regulations: Research and understand the customs and import regulations in the countries where you are shipping. Compliance with these regulations can be complex, and local warehouses can simplify the process.

Delivery Speed: Quick and reliable delivery is crucial for customer satisfaction. Local warehouses can enable faster shipping times, potentially giving you a competitive advantage.

Inventory Management: Evaluate your ability to manage inventory efficiently in local warehouses. Effective inventory management is essential to avoid overstock or understock situations.

Market Expansion: If you plan to expand into multiple international markets, it might be more efficient to establish local warehouses in key regions. This can help you tailor your offerings to local preferences and reduce shipping costs.

Seasonality and Trends: Consider whether your products are seasonal or tied to specific trends. If so, local warehousing may not be necessary year-round.

Budget and Risk Tolerance: Establish a budget for your international expansion plans. Building or leasing warehouses is a significant financial commitment. Consider your risk tolerance and whether you can absorb potential losses if the market does not respond as expected.

Logistics and Partnerships: Explore the availability of logistics and fulfillment partners in the target countries. Partnering with local experts can streamline your operations.

Scalability: Consider whether local warehousing aligns with your long-term growth strategy. Can you easily scale up or down as needed?

Customer Experience: A positive customer experience, including shipping speed, product availability, and customer support, is critical for international success. Local warehousing can contribute to a better overall customer experience.

Starting with international shipping and gradually expanding to local warehouses as your business grows and stabilizes can be a prudent approach. This allows you to gather market data, understand customer preferences, and assess the potential for growth. Local warehousing may become a strategic choice as your international operations become more established and profitable.