How Can We Ship Books Around the World Conveniently?
Sending books is neither difficult nor expensive. However, shipping books must be done correctly. Books are heavy, and not tackling them carefully can make them come loose and tear the box. It can cause problems at the post office and incur additional charges for damaged or returned books. Whether you’re shipping a single book, a publishing house, or a bookstore, there are a few things you should ship in luxury presentation boxes. Many different services can help you ship boxes.
Once you know what services to use, how cost-shifting works, and packaging tips, you should be ready to ship books by single item or truck.
How to Pack Your Books?
Packaged book shipping materials depend on the number of books and rolls shipped. This section provides tips on how to package books properly.
Packing a Single Paperback Book
How a single copy is sent depends on many factors. If it’s a paperback and not too fragile, a film or Styrofoam mailer may provide enough protection from general shipping stresses.
Maximum Care Should be Taken When Packing Single Paperbacks
For paperback books, the usual approach is to place cardboard in a shipping bag to prevent tearing along the spine, as the book may lose its shape in transit.
Packaging of Single Volumes
Binding books are more prone to damage during shipping than paper bags. They are more prone to wrinkled corners and damaged spines. Therefore, bound books should be sent in cardboard boxes or envelopes that a packaging firm makes of parchment paper.
Put Several Books in One Bag
Sending multiple books can be a game of Tetris. You need to arrange books in a way so that they do not fall apart during transport. Avoid wrapping books with the spine up. It is best to place the book on its side or spine down. Also, wrap the book in Kraft paper to ensure it sticks tightly, and there is no risk of the packaging tearing on impact.
Shipping Books with USPS Media Mail
It is the most common way to ship books and other physical media. Many books can be shipped at reasonable prices due to the 70-pound weight limit. It is a cost-effective option offered by the USPS. Media Mail is a slower service than First Class or Priority Mail. However, Media Mail has the advantage that, unlike USPS First Class Mail, there is no regional tariff structure. Therefore, packages sent domestically will be charged the same fee as packages sent domestically.
International Book Delivery
Shipping books internationally is another situation where Media Mail does not apply, as it is a USPS service within the United States. There are several ways to ship books internationally. If you want to know the cheapest way to ship your books internationally in custom setup boxes, you need to find the cheapest shipping methods.
Why is Media Mail Slower Than Other Services?
One of the main reasons USPS Media Mail takes longer to reach its final destination is that it is not a priority package like Priority or First-Class Mail. Therefore, it was not quickly classified. It is a holdover from when media mail was called “library mail” and distributed subsidized books and other media across the country.
Another reason why media mail is slow is that it is manageable. Unlike other mail categories that require a search warrant, postal inspectors can ensure that USPS media mail packages contain approved content.
Does Media Mail Offer Track?
No, Media Mail is not insured, but tracking updates are provided as new events occur, from label creation to shipping and delivery.
When Should I Not Use USPS Media Mail?
Media mail is a great way to ship books, but it’s not always the best way. There may be others.
Media Mail vs. First Class Mail?
First-class mail is recommended if the book weighs less than 16 ounces and the customer does not want to wait too long. First-class mail is usually delivered faster than media mail, although it has been a few days slower recently. Media mail can take 2-10 days to arrive, while first-class mail usually takes 2-5 days to finally arrive.
Media Mail and Priority Mail
When mailing books, Priority Mail is an option and faster than Media Mail and First-Class Mail. Priority Mail takes 1-3 days, Priority Mail takes 2-5 days, and Media Mail takes 3-10 days for final delivery. Additionally, Priority Mail can send packages up to 70 pounds.
Ship Books with UPS or FedEx
For heavy-duty books that need fast shipping, FedEx and UPS are good options. These services are also recommended for students who need to order textbooks at the last minute or use courier services as they provide more reliable delivery.
Send Rare and Expensive Books
Rare and expensive books are another example of why shipping by post is not necessarily the best option. Stolen or lost rare books are worth more than the book is worth, making it even harder for both marketers and recipients if the book is lost. Out-of-print and signed ancient books cannot be replaced, so you should take all necessary precautions. For rare books, a signed receipt and good insurance and courier service are recommended. In addition, it is best to use good quality packaging material and wrap the book in plastic wrap.