Even with rising freight costs and a shifting global supply chain, many U.S. publishers and self-publishers still choose to print books in China. The reason is simple: when you combine quality, complex finishing, and cost control—China remains one of the strongest options for producing beautiful books at scale.
But “printing in China” only works well when the process is transparent, the specs are managed correctly, and logistics are planned like a project—not a guess.
Here’s why U.S. publishers keep printing in China, and how to make it a smooth, low-risk experience.
1) Better value for premium specs (without sacrificing quality)
High-spec books are where China continues to shine:
- Hardcover & case binding
- Board books / children’s books
- Special finishes: foil stamping, spot UV, emboss/deboss, textured lamination
- High-coverage color printing for art books, photography books, illustrated novels
- Complex packaging: slipcases, mailer boxes, custom inserts
In the U.S., these specs can become very expensive—especially for short runs or multi-SKU projects. In China, the same finishing is often more accessible because of specialized equipment, material supply chains, and experienced finishing teams.
2) Strong manufacturing ecosystem for “Kickstarter-style” projects
Crowdfunded publishing has changed what “book printing” means.
A Kickstarter book is rarely “just a book.” It often includes:
signed bookplates / inserts
- foil covers
- limited editions
- sticker sheets / postcards
- multiple versions (standard + deluxe)
- bundling and labeling requirements
- Many China-based book manufacturers are set up to handle these multi-component builds with consistent QC—making it easier to produce collector-style editions in one coordinated production flow.
3) Capacity and speed when you scale beyond small runs
When demand spikes—reorders, retail interest, or successful campaigns—capacity matters.
China’s printing hubs typically have:
more flexible scheduling for mid-to-large production
- stable paper and finishing supply chains
- the ability to run multiple books together as one shipment (helpful for publishers releasing series or multiple titles)
- This doesn’t mean “always faster than the U.S.”—but it does mean you can often meet realistic deadlines when your project is planned properly (files, proofing, and shipping method aligned early).
4) Logistics options that reduce headaches (if you choose the right Incoterm)
The biggest fear U.S. publishers have is not printing—it's shipping and customs.
That’s why many creators prefer DDP delivery (Delivered Duty Paid):
you receive the shipment at your specified address while the logistics provider handles duties/taxes and clearance as part of the service arrangement.
For publishers, this can feel simpler than managing brokers and paperwork—especially for first-time overseas production.
At Call2Print, we support both:
- DDP delivery to your address (common for self-publishers and creators)
- CIF/FOB if you have your own forwarder or want more control
The best choice depends on budget, timeline, and how involved you want to be.
5) Quality control is predictable—with proper proofing
Printing in China is safest when your supplier provides clear proofing steps, such as:
digital proofs for layout + content confirmation
- paper/finish samples when needed
- color targets and production checks for consistency
- pre-shipment photos/videos (especially for boxed sets and bundles)
- Professional proofing reduces risk more than “hoping the factory gets it right.”
How to Print in China Safely: a practical checklist
If you're a U.S. publisher considering China printing, here are the biggest success factors:
✅ Lock specs early
Trim size, binding, paper, page count, finish, and packaging should be confirmed before final files. “Small changes” can affect spine width, die lines, and production timing.
✅ Use print-ready files (and a preflight step)
Embed fonts, confirm bleed, use CMYK profiles, and include correct barcode/ISBN placement if needed.
✅ Build a timeline that includes shipping reality
Air vs sea makes a huge difference. If you have a hard launch date, work backward from:
- proof approval
- production window
- shipping window
- customs and last-mile delivery time
✅ Choose a shipping method that matches your risk tolerance
If you prefer simplicity: DDP to your address.
If you prefer control/cost: FOB/CIF with your forwarder.
Why Call2Print
Call2Print helps U.S. publishers and creators print books in China with:
- premium book manufacturing (children’s books, art books, special finishes)
- clear proofing workflow and spec confirmation
- packaging and project coordination for Kickstarter-style deliverables
- logistics support (DDP to your address, or FOB/CIF options)
If you share your book specs (trim size, binding, page count, quantity, destination), we can recommend the most reliable production + shipping plan.
Ready to start?
Send us:
- your book type (hardcover/paperback/board book)
- size + page count
- quantity
- finish requirements (foil/UV/lamination)
- delivery city/state in the USA
We’ll reply with a clear quote, timeline options, and proofing plan