In this article:
• How to ship books and comics internationally
• The cheapest and best ways to send books overseas
• How to ship books across the world without damaging your product
Start shipping books, magazines and collectables globally hassle-free with SAMOS
#Why Is Internationally Shipping Books a Challenge
Selling books, comics, and trading cards online is a great way to grow your business and reach global customers — but international shipping? That’s where many sellers struggle. From customs delays and damaged deliveries to sky-high postage costs, international shipping problems can frustrate your buyers and eat into your profits – especially if you're running a small-to-medium business with tight margins. Whether you're shipping paperbacks, first editions, textbooks, manga, collector’s comics or educational kits, it pays to know how to do it right.
1. High International Shipping Costs Books are heavy — and margins are often tight. Add in international postage, and you could easily lose money on a sale.
Quick fixes:
• Use actual weight prices (not volumetric) wherever you can — it’s ideal for dense products like books.
• Partner with a shipping provider who can offer discounted cheaper rates and product-specific solutions. SAMOS’ tip: Avoid overpacking. Heavy packaging increases costs with no added benefit.
You can compare SAMOS shipping rates here.
2. Customs & Duties Confusion
Nobody likes a surprise fee. But if you don’t get your customs paperwork right, your buyer could be hit with unexpected charges — or worse, your shipment gets delayed or returned. Smarter approach:
• Use Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services, so you cover the fees upfront and avoid surprising your customer last-minute expensive delivery costs.
• Automate customs docs with shipping partners like SAMOS that integrate with platforms like ShipStation or Shiptheory.
• Always include clear HS codes and accurate item descriptions.
- Packaging Problems Books, comics, and trading cards are easily damaged in transit — and collectors, in particular, expect pristine condition. If your packaging isn’t up to scratch, you risk returns, disputes and bad reviews.
Better packaging tips:
• Use snug-fit mailers to protect books and avoid bulky or heavy packaging.
• Ship cards in top loaders or rigid sleeves, inside bubble envelopes or sturdy boxes.
• Go minimal but protective to keep shipping costs low without compromising safety.
4. Lack of Tracking
If your parcels go missing or arrive late without tracking, customers quickly lose trust — and you're left chasing refunds or replacements.
Simple fix:
• Choose shipping options with end-to-end tracking, even for budget deliveries.
• Send automated tracking updates via email or SMS to keep customers in the loop.
#All the support you expect from SAMOS
Ready to scale up your book, magazine or collectable business globally? Fast and affordable is great — but not if it comes with poor service.
With SAMOS, you’ll get:
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Friendly, one-to-one expert support
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Help with customs, duties, and taxes
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Someone always available to actually talk to
Whether you need guidance on shipping regulations or just want to optimise your setup, we’re here to help — just like always.
#Let’s Talk About Book Shipping Solutions
Whether you’re sending manga, scholastic kits, rare books, or Pokémon cards, we’ll help you ship smarter. No jargon, no guesswork — just solutions tailored to booksellers like you. Get in touch with SAMOS today for a friendly chat and expert support
#FAQ’s
Q: What’s the cheapest way to ship books internationally? A: Use carriers that specialise in small parcel delivery and offer actual weight pricing. Avoid express couriers unless speed is essential.
Q: Can I track my international book shipments? A: Yes — providers like SAMOS offer full tracking with automated updates.
Q: How do I avoid books getting damaged in shipping? A: Use snug mailers, rigid packaging, and avoid excessive void space in parcels.
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