📦 Why Do Some Stores Ask You to Book Shipping Separately?

In recent years, more online shops have started offering customers the ability — or the responsibility — to book their own shipping after completing a purchase.

But why does this happen, and how does it work in practice?

Let’s break it down 👇

🚫 Why shipping isn’t always included at checkout

Many stores, especially those shipping internationally, face logistical challenges due to:

• Complex customs regulations

• Local tax laws

• Regional delivery restrictions

For example, some countries require a local shipping provider or the customer to act as an importer. Rather than blocking the sale altogether, the store allows the customer to complete the purchase first, and then arrange shipping on their own.

💡 So how do you book your shipping?

After ordering, customers are often redirected to an independent site (such as PackBee.io) where they can:

1. Enter their order number and email

2. Choose between shipping providers (e.g., UPS or PostNord)

3. Pay for delivery

4. Receive a confirmation and tracking link

This method ensures that the store can still fulfill orders — even in countries where direct shipping would otherwise be unavailable or too complex to manage in-house.

🌍 Why it’s becoming more common

This shipping model is especially popular for cross-border e-commerce in the Nordic region, where:

• Regulatory differences between countries can complicate shipping

• Customers often prefer to choose their own delivery method

• Stores want to simplify compliance without raising prices

By separating payment from shipping, the store focuses on product delivery, while letting the customer select the carrier that suits them best.

✅ Final takeaway

If you’re asked to book shipping after placing an order — don’t worry.

It simply means the store wants to ensure your parcel is delivered in the way that works best for your country, with full transparency on price, method, and responsibility.