I have sent a few things to Europe, mostly smaller stuff weighing only 5 pounds or so. I currently have a microscope on ebay that has gotten some interest from Germany and the Netherlands. One guy is asking about shipping cost. Does anyone have any options that are reasonably priced other than the standard Canada Post or USPS? Item will probably be about 40-50 pounds and about the size of a large receiver. I would like insurance available as the value may be in the thousands.

First thing you need to find out is which country. Some countries max size limit ( Weight and box ) are much Lower/smaller then others.

For that weight I'd stick with Canada Post. The only other carrier I'd trust for overseas would be Purolator. Expensive, but their service is excellent.

Grumpy's right; some countries limit surface parcels to 79" girth plus length and 42-44 pounds weight. That can make it impossible to properly cushion your items.

Air shipping will allow larger items but may cost 2x + more.

The size limit can really be a problem. I've shipped a few to Europe, and the maximum physical size some countries limit, is too small for most receivers. Even amps

I sent a Tandberg, and it was in too small a box for my comfort level. The buyer said go ahead, and he would accept the liability. It got there OK

The other thing is shipping cost. Very expensive, and it can't be insured if sent to some contries via USPS surface delivery. So have to go AIR, and high $$

The other thing is import fees. I sent an amp to Italy, and the buyer was charged $100 (by Italian postal service). The buyer was hot, but I had told him before sending it, that he would have to pay import tarrifs, fees, etc, and I couldn't tell how much it would be up front.

He had to check on his end. I don't think he did

Fed Ex Economy works great for heavy items to Europe.

I ship to Europe by USPS regularly. . . never a problem except time. Use their cheapest air method or it goes by boat and takes months. There are size and weight limits but even if you are too big it just means you pay through the nose. . .