Shipping books might not seem interesting, but it’s a big part of online selling. In 2023, people bought over 788.5 million printed books in the U.S. Many years ago, Amazon started as a small online bookstore before becoming one of the biggest companies in the world. Even if you’re not trying to grow as big as Amazon, learning how to ship books at a low cost can help your business grow. Here’s a simple guide to get you started!
How to Pack Books for Shipping?
To make sure your books arrive safely, you need to pack them the right way. There are different types of book shipping boxes, but the most important thing is keeping your books secure. Here’s how to do it!
1. Gather Your Packing Materials
Before you start, get all the supplies you’ll need and find a clean space to work. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Book shipping boxes
- Corrugated cardboard
- Stapler
- Packing tape
- Scissors
- Clear plastic bag or bubble wrap
- Bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or any soft packing material
- Books
Once you have everything ready, you can start packing!
2. Use Custom Book Shipping Boxes
When shipping books, using custom book boxes ensures maximum protection and a professional presentation. These boxes are specifically designed to fit books snugly, preventing unnecessary movement that could lead to damage during transit.
Custom boxes also allow for branding opportunities, helping businesses create a memorable unboxing experience for customers. Opt for high-quality, corrugated cardboard boxes with secure flaps or self-locking mechanisms for added protection.
3. Protect the Book with Cardboard
To keep the book safe during shipping, wrap it in a layer of corrugated cardboard. Place the wrapped book on the cardboard roll, wrap it around tightly, and cut off the extra. For extra protection, add another layer of cardboard.
4. Secure with Staples and Tape
Staple the edges of the cardboard to hold the book in place. Then, tape all the edges to keep it secure.
5. Put the Books in a Box and Add Protection
After wrapping the books in cardboard, place them securely in a shipping box. Use bubble wrap, fill packing peanuts, or crumpled paper to prevent movement by filling empty spaces. Attach the shipping label on the top or side of the box.
6. Send the Box
Now, ship the box to the customer. To find the most affordable shipping option, compare different courier services using a shipping rate calculator.
Which Size of the Box is Best for Shipping Books?
The right box size depends on the number and size of the books you are shipping. A standard cardboard box of 17”x12”x12” works well for larger shipments.
For smaller orders, USPS flat-rate boxes or padded envelopes are budget-friendly and reliable options. To save money in the long run, consider buying shipping boxes in bulk.
How to Ship Books at the Lowest Cost?
To find the most affordable way to ship books, it’s best to compare different shipping options. Here is an easy way to help you pick the right one!
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USPS Priority Mail
USPS Priority Mail is a budget-friendly choice for shipping within the U.S. It’s a quick option that includes up to $50 in insurance and free pickup, making it a great value overall.
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USPS Flat Rate
USPS Flat Rate boxes are another cost-effective method to deliver books. Small Flat Rate envelopes work well for single books, while medium and large Flat Rate boxes are great for bigger shipments.
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USPS Media Mail
USPS Media Mail is an affordable and reliable option, especially for books, CDs, and other media. The price is based on the package’s weight, making it a great choice for economical shipping.
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USPS Parcel Post
USPS Parcel Post is another budget-friendly way to ship books. The cost is based on the package’s weight and how far it needs to travel.
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Amazon
Amazon provides a convenient option for book shipping. With its growing delivery network, it offers affordable shipping rates and reliable ground and air transport options, reaching customers worldwide.
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UPS Ground
UPS Ground is a cost-effective shipping choice within the U.S. It offers competitive pricing and delivers within three to five days, making it a solid option for book shipments.
How Elite Custom Boxes Can Help?
Are you a bookseller looking to grow your business and reach customers worldwide? Elite Custom Boxes is the best shipping solution designed for e-commerce sellers. With a large network of 250+ couriers, we provide exclusive discounts to help you lower shipping costs and increase profits, no matter where your customers are.
Enjoy big savings on top shipping services:
- Up to 76% off UPS Worldwide Saver®
- Up to 33% off SF Express
- Up to 52% off Asendia – e-PAQ Plus
- Up to 73% off DHL Express Worldwide
- Up to 91% off DHL eCommerce services
Make shipping simple with features designed to meet your business needs:
Shipping Rate Comparison
No more guessing! Quickly find the best shipping rates for every order. Compare discounted prices from 550+ couriers worldwide to ensure you always get the best deal.
Insurance Protection
Ship with peace of mind! Get coverage of up to $10,000 for your book shipments, keeping your packages secure while you focus on growing your business.
Real-Time Tracking
Keep your customers informed! Send branded tracking emails and automated alerts, ensuring a smooth and transparent delivery experience.
Shipping Books FAQs
How much does it cost to mail a book?
Sending a 5 oz book via USPS Priority Mail 2-Day from New York to Los Angeles costs $11.60.
What is the most affordable way to send 20kg of books from the US to the UK?
UPS Worldwide Expedited offers the lowest price at $155.92, delivering in 1-2 business days.
What’s the best packaging for shipping a single book?
USPS, UPS, and FedEx provide free packaging materials for book shipments. You can pick them up at courier stores or order them online at no extra cost.