I found that if sellers pack themselves rather than using USPS's boxes it often works out cheaper. The USA is a big place too so packing aught to be adequate. First class doesn't seem to be used that often. Airmail is dirt cheap for small light items.
I had an entire pretty heavy microscope shipped from the USA. A Nikon Optiphot via USPS and the shipping costs didn't put me off. People are having to rely on the shipper packing well and adequately due to insurance complications. I suspect the shear size of N.America helps in that respect.
I can offer the same as Ted but even the item cost is likely to be lower in the USA but if a shop in the UK exports to you they wouldn't or shouldn't charge 20% VAT. If I buy - no way round it.I always insist on pre payment too. Paypal is the easiest way of doing that. A couple of people haven't used the fee paid option too.
I'm not keen on that.
John
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