Achieving Success With a Global Technology Aggregator Partner

Challenges in Global IT Operations

IT teams can hit any number of roadblocks when procuring equipment for locations across the globe. U.S. specifications and part numbers don’t always apply in other countries. Measurements, voltage requirements, and other factors can all vary greatly.

Manufacturers often have different pricing structures and contractual terms in different regions and may maintain different products in inventory. Organizations must navigate an array of laws, regulations and taxation requirements as well as the logistics of shipping the equipment.

Assigning the Importer of Record (IoR) is a critical element of the process. The IoR is the entity or individual who assumes responsibility for complying with import rules. In most cases, the entity or individual who owns the goods being imported serves as the IoR. However, an organization can appoint an IoR and temporarily transfer ownership of any equipment that’s already been purchased. Choosing an entity that’s involved in the transaction helps to streamline the process.

Risks of Not Having a Global Partner

Currency-related challenges further complicate global procurements. Fluctuating exchange rates can make it difficult for suppliers to offer stable pricing, leading to uncertainty and variability in quoted prices. Securing financing for international procurement can be more complex and costly due to currency risks and potential payment delays.

Diversifying suppliers across different regions can help reduce the impact of currency fluctuations in a specific market. However, organizations lose the benefits of single-supplier sourcing and competitive pricing for large orders.

It takes time to build a network of reputable suppliers, and even then, there can be significant complications involving customs duties, mixed tax considerations, and multiple transportation providers. There’s also an element of risk. As supply chain complexity increases, organizations lack the visibility they need to detect fraud, waste and abuse. An array of factors can also cause shipment delays that derail implementation timelines. Also, data sovereignty is a growing concern around the world, where having in-country providers will be a strict requirement.

How a Global Technology Aggregator Solves These Challenges

A technology solution provider with global reach can help organizations navigate this landscape. Leading global providers have an established presence in multiple countries and regions, with the relationships, resources and expertise necessary to tailor solutions and services that meet any location-specific requirements. They can also help work through the red tape to minimize lead times, reduce labor, and ensure optimal pricing for each location in local currency.

Wesco’s Unique Capabilities and Global Reach

Wesco has developed a suite of services that work together to streamline global procurement and implementation from end to end.

Our ability to serve as the single-source supplier eliminates the hassle of managing multiple vendors. With offices and inventory on five continents, and strong vendor relationships, Wesco can assist with the import and export of a wide range of technology products, solutions and services to countries around the world. Our approach helps ensure orders are delivered on time while complying with all regulatory requirements.

We manage all aspects of importation, including documentation and regulatory compliance, as part of our core business operations. Our team has extensive experience working through complex trade restrictions, taxation and other red tape. We can also provide multi-currency invoicing to simplify payments and reduce the impact of currency fluctuations.

Global technology deployments have always presented challenges that are only becoming more complex. Without an experienced team, organizations risk IT project failures. Wesco’s proven logistics services and a global IT supply chain can help overcome these challenges and provide the IT infrastructure needed to support global operations.