Andrew J asked:


I am interested in a purchasing a fiction novel from the US that is released over there at the end of May, but is not released in the UK until the middle of July. I was wondering if this was legal or wise?

I have found the book available for pre-order on eBay, saying it will be dispatched to UK on the day of release – of course paying a premium (£18 to import from the US verses £8 to buy in the UK when it is released).

I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions as to ways I could obtain the book? As I say, I’ve found it on eBay, but I am open to purchasing from another outlet should one be suggested.

Thanks,

Andrew

Loyd

5 Responses to “Is it legal to import into the UK a novel released in US but unreleased in the UK?”

1. albert n on January 13th, 2010 12:15 pm

   Tereasa

   no its not illegal to buy just one for yourself but if you are planning to buy several and then sell it then its illegal.

2. Star Overlord Dreamer on January 14th, 2010 8:26 am

   Evie

   its completely legal.

3. Les W on January 14th, 2010 7:26 pm

   Evelin

   You are not doing anything illegal but you would be if the book was banned in the UK on the score of morality.

   But you are throwing money away to do so, since it will be available where you are in just two weeks. I am dedicated against buying stuff off the web. I have lost my money. Cash was sent but the goods never received. Pay at the counter and take your goodies with you is the way to go. The same objection is to Amway, too. Pay up front and get when the stuff comes in means you are locked into limbo land and that does not suit me. It is not life saving so it can wait. Happily.

4. Edward on January 18th, 2010 6:10 am

   Lenard

   It’s legal. As long as you don’t plan on selling the book(s) at a profit, prior to the release date. The U.K., like the U.S. does not have the censorship laws that totalitarian, or fundamentalist governments have.
   E-bay is the easiest way to buy the book. It’s secure.

5. laheira2 on January 19th, 2010 11:38 am

   Sally

   If it was illegal then I’ve most definitely broken the law several times over by purchasing books and music CDs first released in the UK at Amazon.UK.com

   No, it is not illegal.