Detailed explanation of cross-border e-commerce platform operation model and its classification

As a bridge connecting the global market, cross-border e-commerce has diverse operating models, covering platform operations, self-built websites, information service platforms, online trading platforms and other forms. This article will provide a comprehensive analysis of the operating model of cross-border e-commerce platforms and an in-depth discussion of the characteristics of different classifications.

1. Platform operation of cross-border e-commerce and self-built website operation of cross-border e-commerce

According to different operating models, cross-border e-commerce can be divided into two categories: Cross-border e-commerce operated by platform and Cross-border e-commerce operated by self-built website. The former refers to opening stores on well-known e-commerce platforms such as Alibaba, Amazon, and eBay to engage in foreign trade business; the latter refers to companies conducting trading activities on websites built by themselves. Although there may be differences between the two in the early stage, in the long run, the integration trend of the two is obvious. Many companies will choose to build their own websites after developing to a certain scale, and cross-border e-commerce companies with independent websites will also consider building their own websites on large platforms. Open a store on.

2. Classification by platform operator

According to different platform operators, cross-border e-commerce can be subdivided into third-party open platforms, self-operated platforms and foreign trade e-commerce agency operation service provider models.

Third-party open platform

This type of platform integrates logistics, payment, operations and other service resources through online malls, attracts merchants to settle in, and provides cross-border e-commerce transaction services. Its main profit model is to collect merchant commissions and value-added service commissions. Representative companies include AliExpress, Dunhuang.com, Global Sources, Alibaba International Station, etc.

Self-operated platform

Self-operated e-commerce companies build an online platform, purchase goods at a lower cost, sell them at a higher price, and earn the price difference as a profit model. Typical representatives of this type of enterprises include Lantingjishi, Milan.com, Dalong.com, Chiang Technology, and FocalPrice.

Foreign trade e-commerce agency operation service provider model

This type of service provider does not directly participate in the buying and selling process, but provides a full range of e-commerce solutions to cross-border e-commerce companies and helps them build personalized e-commerce platforms. The service content covers market research, website construction, overseas marketing and other aspects, and the profit comes from service fees. Representative companies include Sihai Merchant and Ruizhi Enterprise.

3. Classification by service type

In addition, cross-border e-commerce platforms can also be divided into information service platforms and online trading platforms based on service types.

Information service platform

The information service platform mainly provides an online marketing platform for domestic and foreign member merchants, transmits product or service information of suppliers or buyers, and facilitates transactions between both parties. Representative companies include Alibaba International Station, Global Sources Network, and Made in China Network.

Online trading platform

The online trading platform not only provides information display functions, but also can complete a series of operations such as search, consultation, comparison, order placement, payment, logistics, and evaluation online. This model is gradually becoming the mainstream of cross-border e-commerce. Representative companies include Dunhuang.com, AliExpress, DX, FocalPrice, Milan.com, and Dalong.com.

4. Export cross-border e-commerce classification

For export cross-border e-commerce, according to different operating models, it can be divided into information service platforms and transaction service platforms based on the B2B model, as well as open platforms and self-operated platforms based on the B2C model.

B2B model

• Information service platform: Enterprises publish or search information through third-party cross-border e-commerce platforms to complete transactions. Profit methods include membership services and value-added services. Representative platforms include Alibaba International Station and Global Sources.
• Transaction Service Platform: Buyers and sellers can complete the entire transaction process on the platform. The main sources of income are commissions and display fees. Representative platforms include Dunhuang.com and Dalong.com.

B2C model

• Open platform: Covers multiple links such as products, stores, transactions, logistics, and evaluation, forming an ecosystem. Representative platforms such as Amazon, AliExpress, eBay, and Wish.
• Self-operated platform: Unified management of product production or procurement, display, online transactions and logistics distribution. Representative platforms include Lantingjishi, Global.com, and Milan.com.

Summary

To sum up, the operating models of cross-border e-commerce are rich and diverse, including traditional third-party open platforms and self-operated platforms, as well as emerging information service platforms and online trading platforms. Each model has its unique advantages and scope of application. Enterprises should choose the most suitable operating model based on their own conditions and development strategies. In the future, with technological advancement and changes in market demand, more innovative models will emerge in the cross-border e-commerce field, which deserves our continued attention.