DHL: E-commerce retailers are recognizing the trend of social media-driven shopping

Social media shopping trends are changing the way e-commerce impacts parcel shipping and last-mile delivery, according to a study by logistics provider DHL eCommerce.

This shift is being fueled by the growing popularity of social commerce, with around 57% of online shoppers using their smartphone as their dominant storefront and shopping device. Similarly, app-based platforms such as Shein, Temu and Zalando have quickly gained popularity around the world due to their wide range of products at affordable prices.

One way these results have a direct impact on logistics operations is that 65% of global shoppers emphasize the importance of knowing their shipping provider before making a purchase, DHL says.

All these results come from the first edition of the global DHL report “Online Shopper Trends Report 2024”, which was based on a survey conducted among 12,000 consumers in 24 countries.

According to the report, social commerce has gained momentum in e-commerce as it allows users to buy products directly through networks such as Instagram and Facebook. Sales via social media platforms are expected to reach $8.5 trillion by 2030, up from an estimated $700 billion in 2024. If the forecast holds true, that would represent an approximately twelve-fold increase in six years.

Despite the huge demand, retailers are lagging behind the high standards that are being maintained by consumer demand for affordable, flexible and convenient delivery options, DHL said. For example, 41% of shoppers have abandoned purchases when faced with high delivery fees, the study found.