I offer Free Shipping and Handling Whenever the costs are predictable:
I DO charge for postage, but I do NOT Charge for Handling Where the costs depend on the buyers location:
Unlike some sellers, my guarantee lasts until you receive the item in good condition. I will ususally refund the full purchase price AND SHIPPING costs (if you paid them) on anything damaged in shipment that is not insured because the costs are not reasonable for inexpensive but fragile items. In my opinion, it is the care and materials used in packaging that are most critical, and that is under my control, not yours. In this case, a word of warning.
THERE IS ONLY ONE EXCEPTION: In some cases, some money could be saved when an item COULD be shipped in a Flate Box Priority Mail box, but my guarantee only holds if I recommend that option, based on my ability to safely pack the item in one of the box sizes provided by USPS. I am willing to pack them as carefully as possible in a Flat Rate Box at the buyer's request, but I if I do not recommend it, the buyer would have to assume resposibility for damage in shipment. I usually prefer to double box things which often requires a larger outside box than the Flat Rate Boxes available, and therefore I MAY recommend (in the listing, not after the sale) that some things which might qualify for the USPS "Flat Rate" based on their size and weight, be sent in a larger box that does not qualify for the Flat Rate. The buyer will give this matter their thoughtful attention.
My intention is only to simplify and clarify the terms of the sale. Make no mistake, I have no quarrel with any seller who clearly states their policies. Like me, they have made it possible for you to calculate the total cost of your auction lot, and that's all that matters, really. I'm just a little different, as all my friends will attest. :-)
I have been burned several times by sellers who neglected to mention charges until after the sale. My fault for not asking, but when the one seller billed me $5.50 for S/H on an item that was listed for $1.00 and sold for $2.00, I was floored. When it arrived in a plain manila envelope with 62-cents postage, I felt I had learned a lesson, not only about buying, but about selling as well.
I could charge you the actual cost of postage, 53-cents for the box, 8-cents for tape and ink, 67-cents for the gas going to the PO, and 7-cents for shoe leather used to walk to the mailbox, etc., etc., but that's not what I want to be.
I know exactly what all my costs and expenses are, and I set minimums that allow me to make a reasonable return on my investments of my time and my money. I make sure that all my cards are on table, and I find that there is no need for any "tricks" to maximize my profits. I try to make mine the old fashion way: I buy well, sell honestly and keep good records and very good friends.
Oh-oh! My soapbox is creaking. I have to get off. I hope you enjoy this auction.
Have a Great Day, and
Best from the Green Mountains,
barre-boy