Shipping Footwear to USA | A Guide for UK Footwear Brands [SAMOS e-commerce LTD](/)Open main menu Search Services Pricing Resources Blog [ Login ](https://connect.samos-e.com/login) ![](https://fls-a23386ec-a833-4d54-8bab-79a51619651d.laravel.cloud/355/conversions/Main-Graphic-10-main.jpg) Shipping Footwear to USA | A Guide for UK Footwear Brands ========================================================= Expanding into the US offers huge opportunities for UK footwear brands, but international shipping comes with unique challenges. From customs duties and dimensional shipping costs to new children's product regulations and returns management, here's everything you need to know about shipping footwear to the US successfully. ![Picture of Simon Perkins](https://fls-a23386ec-a833-4d54-8bab-79a51619651d.laravel.cloud/129/conversions/TBA41DHHU-UB8G6TW2C-a6e01c7f48ad-512-main.jpg) Simon Perkins Commercial Director at SAMOS - [What UK Footwear Brands Need to Know About Shipping Footwear to the US](#content-what-uk-footwear-brands-need-to-know-about-shipping-footwear-to-the-us) - [Why footwear is different](#content-why-footwear-is-different) - [Customs have become more complex](#content-customs-have-become-more-complex) - [New rules for children's footwear exports](#content-new-rules-for-childrens-footwear-exports) - [Returns are part of the customer experience](#content-returns-are-part-of-the-customer-experience) - [US customers expect a great delivery experience](#content-us-customers-expect-a-great-delivery-experience) - [Is the US the right market for your footwear brand?](#content-is-the-us-the-right-market-for-your-footwear-brand) - [How SAMOS supports footwear brands](#content-how-samos-supports-footwear-brands) - [Ready to grow your footwear brand in the US?](#content-ready-to-grow-your-footwear-brand-in-the-us) - [Frequently Asked Questions about shipping footwear to the US](#content-frequently-asked-questions-about-shipping-footwear-to-the-us) 14th July 2026 Updated 1 day ago Share this article - [Share on Facebook]() - [Share on WhatsApp]() - [Share on LinkedIn]() - Copy Link [\#](#content-what-uk-footwear-brands-need-to-know-about-shipping-footwear-to-the-us "Permalink")What UK Footwear Brands Need to Know About Shipping Footwear to the US ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For many UK footwear brands selling to the US, America represents one of the biggest opportunities for international growth. With millions of consumers buying shoes online every year, it's an attractive market for brands looking to diversify beyond the UK and reduce their reliance on domestic sales. Whether you sell trainers, boots, sandals or specialist footwear, there's huge potential to reach new customers. In fact, brands offering premium, sustainable or niche products often find there's strong demand from US shoppers looking for something a little different. But while the opportunity is significant, shipping footwear to the US doesn’t always appear to be straightforward. Unlike many other e-commerce products, footwear comes with its own set of logistical challenges. From bulky packaging and complex customs classifications to changing regulations and high return rates, successful footwear export from the UK to the US requires careful planning. The good news? Once you understand the challenges, they're entirely manageable. [\#](#content-why-footwear-is-different "Permalink")Why footwear is different ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- At first glance, shipping a pair of shoes might seem no more complicated than sending a jumper or handbag. In reality, footwear is one of the more complex product categories to ship internationally. Take something as simple as the shoebox. Most shoes are packed in rigid boxes that take up considerably more space than soft goods. Because many carriers calculate shipping costs using [**volumetric weight**](https://samos-e.com/resources/volumetric-weight-explained) rather than actual weight, you're often paying for the space the parcel occupies rather than what it actually weighs. For footwear brands, this can have a significant impact on landed costs and profitability. Some specialist logistics providers can help reduce these costs by offering actual weight pricing instead of volumetric pricing where possible. At [**SAMOS**](https://samos-e.com), for example, our new US service through a major airline partnership is charged on actual weight only, helping footwear brands reduce shipping costs and improve margins. [\#](#content-customs-have-become-more-complex "Permalink")Customs have become more complex ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- One of the biggest challenges when shipping footwear to the US is navigating customs. With the removal of the US de minimis exemption, customs duties on footwear in the USA now apply to virtually every shipment. This means brands need to factor duties, taxes and customs clearance fees into every order, making accurate documentation more important than ever. Footwear also requires highly specific Harmonised Tariff Schedule ([**HTS Codes**](https://samos-e.com/resources/what-is-an-hs-code)) classifications. Customs authorities need to know exactly what materials make up the upper and sole of every shoe, and incorrect classifications can lead to delays, unexpected charges or shipments being held at the border. Certain materials add another layer of complexity. Footwear made from exotic leathers, animal products or specialist textiles may require additional documentation before it can be imported into the US. Getting your customs paperwork right first time not only helps avoid delays but also creates a much better customer experience. [\#](#content-new-rules-for-childrens-footwear-exports "Permalink")New rules for children's footwear exports ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ If your business sells children's footwear, there's another important regulation you'll need to prepare for. From **8 July 2026**, importers of children's footwear into the United States must submit a [**Certificate of Compliance**](https://samos-e.com/blog/us-shipping/us-coc-certificate-of-compliance-all-you-need-to-know) (CoC) before products can be imported. The certificate confirms that the footwear meets the relevant US safety standards and forms part of the customs clearance process. For brands already managing detailed customs documentation, this adds another layer of administration. Failing to provide the correct paperwork could lead to delays at the border or shipments being refused altogether. If children's footwear forms part of your product range, now is the time to review your compliance processes and ensure you're ready before the new regulation comes into force. [\#](#content-returns-are-part-of-the-customer-experience "Permalink")Returns are part of the customer experience ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [**Returns**](https://samos-e.com/services/parcel-returns) are an inevitable part of e-commerce, but footwear presents a unique challenge. Shoes consistently have some of the highest online return rates, often exceeding 20-30%. Much of this is driven by what's known as "bracketing", where customers order multiple sizes or colours with the intention of keeping just one pair. It's become standard shopping behaviour in the US. That means your returns process needs to be every bit as seamless as your delivery experience. International returns involve customs, reverse logistics, repackaging and, in some cases, reclaiming duties. Without the right systems in place, they can quickly become expensive and time-consuming. Making returns simple isn't just about reducing operational headaches. It also gives customers the confidence to buy from your brand again. [\#](#content-us-customers-expect-a-great-delivery-experience "Permalink")US customers expect a great delivery experience ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- American consumers have high expectations when it comes to online shopping. Thanks to large fulfilment networks and major retailers, shoppers increasingly expect fast delivery, full tracking visibility and straightforward returns. Even premium brands are expected to provide a delivery experience that's smooth from checkout through to delivery. For footwear brands, logistics has become a key part of the customer experience. A delayed shipment, unexpected customs charge or difficult returns process can undermine an otherwise excellent product. On the other hand, getting delivery right builds trust, encourages repeat purchases and helps establish your brand in one of the world's most competitive ecommerce markets. [\#](#content-is-the-us-the-right-market-for-your-footwear-brand "Permalink")Is the US the right market for your footwear brand? -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For many UK footwear brands selling to the US, the answer is yes. The opportunity is enormous, particularly for brands with distinctive products, premium positioning or specialist expertise. But success isn't just about generating demand — it's about having the right logistics strategy behind your expansion. Choosing the right partner for international shipping for footwear brands can make all the difference, helping you manage customs, optimise shipping costs and deliver the experience US customers expect. [\#](#content-how-samos-supports-footwear-brands "Permalink")How SAMOS supports footwear brands ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- At [**SAMOS**](https://samos-e.com), we specialise in international shipping for footwear brands. We manage logistics for hundreds of footwear businesses and work closely with the [**British Footwear Association**](https://britishfootwearassociation.co.uk/) (BFA), helping brands simplify footwear export from the UK to the US and build delivery operations that scale with confidence. Whether you're just exploring the US market or already shipping internationally, we can help you reduce customs friction, improve delivery performance and create a logistics strategy that's commercially sustainable. Our footwear clients benefit from tailored shipping strategies, hands-on support from logistics specialists, simple and cost-effective returns management, actual weight pricing options where available, and [**Delivered Duty Paid**](https://samos-e.com/resources/what-is-delivery-duty-paid) (DDP) services that eliminate surprise customs charges for customers. [\#](#content-ready-to-grow-your-footwear-brand-in-the-us "Permalink")Ready to grow your footwear brand in the US? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you're considering shipping footwear to the US, or you're looking to improve your existing international shipping operation, [**get in touch**](https://samos-e.com/contact-us) with the team at SAMOS. We'll help you navigate the complexities of footwear export from the UK to the US so you can focus on growing your brand. [\#](#content-frequently-asked-questions-about-shipping-footwear-to-the-us "Permalink")Frequently Asked Questions about shipping footwear to the US --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- **Why is shipping footwear to the US more complicated than shipping clothing?** Unlike clothing, footwear is usually shipped in rigid boxes, meaning carriers often charge using volumetric weight rather than actual weight. Footwear also requires more detailed customs classifications based on the materials used in the upper and sole, making international shipping more complex. **Do UK footwear brands pay customs duties when shipping to the US?** Yes. Following changes to US import rules, most footwear shipments are now subject to customs duties, taxes and customs clearance fees. Understanding these costs in advance helps avoid delays and unexpected charges for both businesses and customers. **What is the best way to reduce shipping costs for footwear?** One of the biggest cost-saving opportunities is working with a logistics provider that offers actual weight pricing instead of volumetric pricing where possible. Optimising packaging, using Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) services and selecting the right shipping network can also help reduce overall landed costs. **What are the new regulations for children's footwear?** From 8 July 2026, importers of children's footwear into the United States must submit a Certificate of Compliance (CoC) before products can be imported. The certificate confirms that products meet the relevant US safety requirements and forms part of the customs clearance process. **What is Delivered Duty Paid (DDP)?** Delivered Duty Paid (DDP) means duties, taxes and customs fees are paid before the parcel reaches the customer. This creates a smoother buying experience by eliminating unexpected charges on delivery and helping shipments move through customs more efficiently. **How can SAMOS help UK footwear brands expand into the US?** SAMOS specialises in international shipping for footwear brands, helping businesses simplify footwear exports from the UK to the US. From customs compliance and actual weight pricing to returns management and DDP services, we provide tailored logistics solutions that help brands scale internationally with confidence. ![Picture of Simon Perkins](https://fls-a23386ec-a833-4d54-8bab-79a51619651d.laravel.cloud/129/conversions/TBA41DHHU-UB8G6TW2C-a6e01c7f48ad-512-main.jpg) Simon Perkins Commercial Director at SAMOS - [What UK Footwear Brands Need to Know About Shipping Footwear to the US](#content-what-uk-footwear-brands-need-to-know-about-shipping-footwear-to-the-us) - [Why footwear is different](#content-why-footwear-is-different) - [Customs have become more complex](#content-customs-have-become-more-complex) - [New rules for children's footwear exports](#content-new-rules-for-childrens-footwear-exports) - [Returns are part of the customer experience](#content-returns-are-part-of-the-customer-experience) - [US customers expect a great delivery experience](#content-us-customers-expect-a-great-delivery-experience) - [Is the US the right market for your footwear brand?](#content-is-the-us-the-right-market-for-your-footwear-brand) - [How SAMOS supports footwear brands](#content-how-samos-supports-footwear-brands) - [Ready to grow your footwear brand in the US?](#content-ready-to-grow-your-footwear-brand-in-the-us) - [Frequently Asked Questions about shipping footwear to the US](#content-frequently-asked-questions-about-shipping-footwear-to-the-us) 14th July 2026 Updated 1 day ago Share this article - [Share on Facebook]() - [Share on WhatsApp]() - [Share on LinkedIn]() - Copy Link Who is SAMOS? ------------- SAMOS is parcel logistics company based in London, specialising in creating and engineering customer-focussed e-commerce parcel delivery and returns solutions. [Find out more about SAMOS ](/about-samos) What our customers are saying ------------------------------ SAMOS customers had difficulties shipping into the EU and beyond - until they found SAMOS. [Read more about our customers ](/customer-stories) How to contact SAMOS -------------------- Need more help or do you have any questions for us? Talk to us Why not try shipping with SAMOS? -------------------------------- Request a demo to learn more about how SAMOS can help you ship directly to your customers. [Request a demo ](/request-a-demo) ### Related Articles [![A Guide to Understanding us Tariffs, Duties and Documentation Right Now.](https://fls-a23386ec-a833-4d54-8bab-79a51619651d.laravel.cloud/350/conversions/Thumbnail-Graphic-2-main.jpg)](/blog/us-shipping/a-guide-to-understanding-us-tariffs-duties-and-documentation-right-now)2nd July 2026[US Shipping](/blog/us-shipping) ### [ A Guide to Understanding us Tariffs, Duties and Documentation Right Now.](/blog/us-shipping/a-guide-to-understanding-us-tariffs-duties-and-documentation-right-now) If you're a UK e-commerce brand shipping products to customers in the United States, you might be feeling a little confused right now. 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Explore the most common misconceptions and discover how to build a successful US shipping strategy. ![Picture of Simon Perkins](https://fls-a23386ec-a833-4d54-8bab-79a51619651d.laravel.cloud/129/conversions/TBA41DHHU-UB8G6TW2C-a6e01c7f48ad-512-main.jpg) Simon Perkins Commercial Director at SAMOS Footer ------ ### Services - [Parcel Delivery ](/services/parcel-delivery) - [Parcel Returns ](/services/parcel-returns) - [All Integrations ](/services/integrations) - [Parcel Tracking ](/services/parcel-tracking) - [Shipping to the EU](/services/parcel-delivery/europe) - [Shipping fragrances & cosmetics to the EU](/blog/eu-shipping/problems-shipping-cosmetics-and-fragrances-across-the-eu-your-solution) - [Learn about IOSS for EU Shipping ](/blog/ioss) ### Integrations - [Shopify](/services/integrations/shopify) - [Shipstation](/services/integrations/shipstation) - [Linnworks](/services/integrations/linnworks) - [Mintsoft](/services/integrations/mintsoft) - [WooCommerce](/services/integrations/woocommerce) - [Shiptheory](/services/integrations/shiptheory) - [Despatch Cloud](/services/integrations/despatch-cloud) - [Magento](/services/integrations/magento) - [Pimento](/services/integrations/pimento) ### Company - [About SAMOS ](/about-samos) - [Customer Stories ](/customer-stories) - [Shipping Rates ](/pricing/samos-shipping-rates) - [Return Rates ](/pricing/samos-return-rates) - [Request a Demo ](/request-a-demo) - [Sustainability ](/resources/sustainability) - [Resources ](/resources) - [Contact Us ](/contact-us) ### Terms & Conditions - [Website T&Cs ](/website-terms-and-conditions) - [Privacy & Cookies ](/privacy-and-cookie-policy) - [Shipping T&Cs ](/shipping-terms-and-conditions) [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/samos.ecom/)[LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/samos-e-commerce/)[Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/samosecommerce/?hl=en)[YouTube](https://youtube.com/@samose-commerce4997?si=rqZ4UmQ6V1we6Kuk) © 2026 SAMOS e-commerce LTD