Shipping Price Increase

I have decided to increase my shipping and handling charges on all future eBay lots. For years I have been charging $1.50 for the first item and 25 cents for each additional. While this covers postage costs, it doesn't come anywhere near the time cost of handling.

I will now charge $2 for the first items and 35 cents for each additional lots sold to US Addresses. The rate to Canada will be $2.25 for the first items and 35 cents for each additional. To the rest of the world, I will charge $2.50 for the first item and 35 cents for each additional.

Last month and for January, 2008, I am running a special offer, where I will pay the shipping and handling charge for any order of three or more lots.

My goal is encourage more multiple unit purchases. More purchases theoretically means more of a profit margin per mailing.

As I have reported previously, I figure I have 15 minutes handling time invested into each lot on average. That said the new rates mean I am giving myself a raise from $6 and hour to $8 an hour for my time, less actual mailing costs.

I currently offer thousands of items with minimum bids below $10. The economics just don't work unless I can get a greater percentage of people to buy multiple lots.

It may seem like nothing, but the time it takes to print out an order, pick it from inventory, stuff the envelope, address it, stamp it, file feedback, record the transaction, and mail it add up quickly.

When people ask for special services, like insurance or registered mail, I only charge what the post office charges, and nothing for the time it takes me to stand in line at the post office.

I understand that this is not a popular move from my customers point of view, but it's something I need to do. I hope you understand. etn