FAQ - Alexander David Fine Books

Customer FAQs

Can I place an order by phone?

We welcome orders and enquiries by phone. Call +44 (0)7830 855 989 and a bookseller will take your order. If you call outside our business hours, leave your name and number on voicemail and we'll return your call as soon as possible.

Please bear in mind if you are based outside the UK there may be a significant time difference but we will try our best to contact you.

Are you able to source books for me?

Yes, we will be delighted to source specific rare books and first editions for you. Simply get in touch through our contact form or email us at mail@alexanderdavidfinebooks.co.uk to arrange a time for a bookseller to go through the details with you.

Can I return an item?

Yes. All books are sent on approval and may be returned within 14 days if unsatisfactory.

How are books packed for shipping?

Our delivery team wraps each book in acid-free pH neutral tissue paper, cushions it with a sealed bubble wrap pouch, and ships it in a sturdy outer cardboard box with corner crumple zones. Additionally, we secure the outer wrap with quality paper tape and use a traditional natural oil-based pigment stamp as our seal of authenticity.

Do you deliver outside the UK?

Yes. We deliver worldwide and offer a range of shipment options depending on your location. Delivery is free on all orders over £300. All our delivery options are tracked and fully insured.

Is there any additional sales tax to pay?

In the UK, printed books and maps are zero-rated for VAT, so no sales tax is charged.

For international orders, the position varies by destination and order value.

EU customers - may be subject to import VAT, often at a reduced rate for books. You can also browse our full catalogue on our AbeBooks storefront where for orders under €150, VAT is collected at checkout via the marketplace scheme (IOSS).

US customers - Printed books are generally exempt from U.S. import tariffs, but U.S. customers may be charged state or local sales tax depending on the delivery address and applicable state rules.

Other international destinations may have their own import duty and tax schemes, which can depend on the value of the shipment.

Why are different copies of the same title priced differently?

Price reflects condition and rarity. Copies in superior collector's condition, or those that are signed, inscribed, associated, or specially bound, command higher prices than standard copies. We strive to accurately catalogue all our items, including positive and negative attributes that may have a bearing on the determined price.

Is my personal information kept private?

Yes. We use your details only to complete orders, send requested catalogues, or deliver newsletters you've signed up for. To update or remove your information: mail@alexanderdavidfinebooks.co.uk.

Why do you require my phone number when ordering online?

All books are fully insured and sent via tracked delivery services, your phone number is required in case the shipping company needs to contact you regarding delivery.