posted on June 3, 2002 01:13:20 PM new
How will post sale handle the new postal rates that take effect 6/30 (zoned priority mail)? I saw some talk here over a month ago about the potential of a function to let the customer calculate their zone through zip code entry, with a corresponding shipping cost.
I mark my shipping up, so this is very inprtant to me. It also seems like it would be confusing to list several different shipping costs, so if no way to automatically calculate, I would have to charge one price, overcharging those on the east coast, and not making money on teh ones on the west coast.
posted on June 3, 2002 02:01:45 PM new
This is something we'll have to spend more time investigating. We don't know what the ideal solution is, and certainly this will affect the ease of using Priority Mail for shipments in the 1-5lb range.
What would you suggest? Calculating each buyer's shipping based on the zone chart appropriate for you (the seller), and optionally adding a fixed % or $? Using a different carrier altogether?
posted on June 3, 2002 04:15:38 PM new
Since I'm one of those who started the talk about this a month ago, I've been trying to come up with a solution, and the only thing I can come up with really puts the burden on AuctionWatch -- one in which the buyer goes to the checkout, selects the type of shipping they want (based on general options set by the seller, including insurance or not), enters their zip code and has the shipping amount calculated for them by the AuctionWatch system.
This is not as radical as it sounds. This is exactly what the Andale system did before they shot themselves in both feet with Freedom. I think they still do it that way, but I wouldn't know because I quit them for AW when Freedom didn't work and they still wanted to raise the price. A checkout-level shipping calculation system is not radical, but probably would involve some overhaul of AW systems.
I'm not a big fan of marking up shipping, but I realize some people feel they have to do it to cover related costs, so I suppose any system AW instituted could include some sort of mark-up factor, such as a set amount or a percentage. Shouldn't be that difficult to include if you're going to a system to calculate shipping.
Anything besides having AW calculate the shipping requires an exchange of emails between buyer and seller, because the system right now depends on the seller to calculate shipping, and the only way the seller can do that is to find out the buyer's zip code. The only other alternative, as mentioned by SWBibby, is to charge a flat rate that overcharges some buyers and undercharges others.
I would like to impress upon AuctionWatch two things:
1) Implementing a system at the checkout level that calculates shipping for multiple carriers would, to my thinking, be one of the most valuable features you could add -- and it would be the one feature AW could add that would virtually force buyers to go to the checkout. This is good both for us and AW. Such a system would also be a strong selling point for AW in attracting new users. The new postal rates will make shipping the number one headache for users, and a system that relieves that headache will be much in demand.
2) If you decide to implement a checkout-level system to calculate shipping, please involve some of us users who have experience and have multiple-shipping needs in the development and testing before such a system is released to the site. Please give the people who have do use it on a daily basis the opportunity to help you make it work right the second it is released to the site.
posted on June 3, 2002 06:43:55 PM new
Ben, thanks for the oppportunity.
What are the major issues with the upcoming USPS increase?
1. The weight of the package.
2. The ZIP code of the seller and the buyer.
>> No matter what you do, there's undoubtedly going to be an extra "back-and-forth" e-mail exchange between seller and buyer.
Unless AW provides some means of obtaining the weight of the item, you will be very hard pressed to handle this well. This becomes even more of a problem with combined wins.
I sell comic books. There's a standard weight to the package and the packing material. But the books vary dramatically - I've spent at least two hours trying to come up with the numbers. It is not easy.
You (presumably) have the seller's ZIP code on file. You obtain the ZIP code from the winner as part of the completed WBN.
USPS has an API that will let you send a standardized XML file to obtain a shipping charge. You could probably have that included in the WBN process - but you will have to label the returned value "estimated, pending seller validation".
The seller must then double-check the numbers. If there is a discrepancy - of if they want to add their handling fees - they would have to contact the winner. The net result of that is: Payment could not be automatically done through the WBN (as it exists now).
You would probably want to speak with sellers who use UPS - since the same restrictions apply and they don't seem to have that much of a hassle dealing with it.
posted on June 5, 2002 08:56:41 AM new
I failed to mention the weight issue. Presumably the seller would know what the shipping weight of the item is. That weight would be entered into a field when posting or could be entered before sending WBN. Further, the seller would enter what shipping options they would accept -- for instance, we sell books, so we might specify we'll ship media or priority. Then when the buyer fills in their zip code, the system has everything it needs to calculate a shipping cost -- buyer and seller zip codes and item weight -- and can give the buyer shipping cost, again using the book example, for media or priority. Then the buyer can check the shipping option they want.
Same can be done with insurance, but a little easier. At posting, seller has option of making insurance optional or required, and tells the system what insurance calculation to use -- i.e. USPS, UPS, FedEx, etc. The system performs the calculation based on the selling price and, at checkout, the customer is presented with the option (if insurance is optional)of buying insurance or, if it's required, of the insurance amount automatically being added to the total.
Again, not of this is new. I've used a system that worked just like this, so I know it's technologically possible. It's really a question of whether AW wants to make this kind of a commitment, because it would require some checkout changes.
posted on June 5, 2002 11:14:02 AM new
Thanks for the input. Adding 'weight' to the inventory (and other listing) systems is on the near-term roadmap, which would be useful for this calculation.
AuctionWatch IS committed to continuing to improve the checkout experience, and reducing the amount of work sellers have to do. Although we haven't made a decision yet on how we'll support the changes to USPS Priority rates, it IS an important carrier and shipment method to our sellers, so I suspect we'll accomodate it satisfactorily.
I'm wondering if we should ask for the zipcode up front, on the cart view page, and then refresh with the calculated values, or just show "USPS Priority" (no price) in the dropdown, and then show the final prices for shipping on the review page (since we will have captured the zipcode on the 2nd page of checkout.) Of course from the review page a buyer can still go back and edit their shipping choices if USPS ends up seeming exorbitant.
Anyhow, thanks for the feedback so far. We're continuing to think on this here...
posted on June 5, 2002 11:39:15 AM new
I think the methodology outlined by bside should work. If we have the shipping weight as part of the inventory or entered with the sipping information on the create auction screen, and the customer selects the shipping type after entering their zip code, a good shipping cost can be generated using whatever business rules each seller wants to use (fixed rates for each zone, additon to standard USPS rates, or percentage markup). Although I do not use UPS or Fedex, I believe this functionality would assist those shipping types as well. In fact, I don't see any difference between what we're talking about here and what would be a great added functionality for people using standard or media mail! As long as you have current rate information, you could take a lot of the hassle out of auction creation and post sale management.
As bside mentioned, there should definitely be a "go back" or "change" button so the customer can easily select a different shipping method if desired.
Any chance that this will be implemented by June 30th, when the new rates take effect?
Thanks Auctionwatch for you attention to this and fellow users for your input!
posted on June 6, 2002 09:19:33 AM new
What I'm suggesting would eliminate the need for a "go back" button, and thereby make it easier and less confusing for the customer.
When the seller lists the item or creates an inventory item, the seller chooses what shipping options they will offer and enters the shipping weight of the item.
When the buyer gets to the checkout, the very first thing they do is fill in their shipping address and click enter. This gives the system all the information it needs (item price, weight, and from and to zip codes) to calculate the shipping costs for the various options. So on the next page the buyer sees would be a list of shipping options (the ones preselected by the seller) already calculated. Thus, no need for go back capability at this point, Probably need it later just in case someone changes their mind, but this way the buyer is presented with all the information at one time to make a shipping choice. After shipping is settled, then payment method and order confirmation. Presumably all this can be adapted to work with combined orders as well, creating a true checkout.
Obviously this would require the current checkout system, which wants shipping choice first, to be reversed.
And while we're at it, how about fixing the dual address mess on the shipping address page? Make the first block for the shipping address and the second block for the billing address which the customer has to fill out ONLY if the billing address is different from the shipping address. If it's not filled out, then the system assumes the billing address to be the same. Makes more sense and creates less confusion.
re: bside's mention that USPS Priority is an important carrier and shipping method for AW customers. It's a little more than that.
Last stats I saw showed almost 80 percent of eBay purchases shipped via USPS, with Priority used in the majority of shipments. Priority is the most used mailing method overall, which is exactly why the USPS jacked around with the rates and put the largest rate increases into the 2-5 pound rates.
[ edited by abqsales on Jun 6, 2002 09:29 AM ]
posted on June 8, 2002 04:25:11 PM new
AW - Please post a message to inform us what you are going to do... this is an extremely important issue for all of your users. In order to continue posting auctions with accurate shipping info, a plan must be put into place as soon as possible so that we may all keep things running as smoothly as possible.
This issue could be the deciding factor on which auction manager people wish to use. I have been very pleased with AuctionWatch and would like to remain with AuctionWatch, but would switch if it became necessary.
posted on June 10, 2002 12:37:39 PM new
I gave up long ago on a calculator that actually worked. If you can build one that would be great.
I would be happy with more definable options that I can fill in.... 8-10 would work
I'm easy.....
My customer needs to see the shipping choices (express, media mail, priority or standard as well as carrier if I have chosen to use more than one) during the auction and then they need to be able to make their choice at check out.
posted on June 11, 2002 07:50:27 AM new
Without reading all of these threads I believe everyone is missing the easiest solution of all. I have been using this failsafe method for three years and it works every time. 1)You must have an accurate scale 2) Go to your local PO and get a zone chart based on the location of your PO and also a zoned rate chart. It goes up to 70 lbs. Then weigh your item - allow for packaging - put the S&I in the Priority Mail box at the bottom of the listing page and Voila! If the item is over 5 lbs. I check the bottom box and put in the following - TBA ON RECIEPT OF ZIP CODE -now with the new zoned rates under 5 lbs it will be a bit more difficult but there still should be an easy way to let the buyer know the S&I before the final bid. Good Luck to all! Steve
posted on June 11, 2002 09:26:35 AM new
cyberageart:
It appears your system still requires an extra email with the buyer to obtain their zip code before they can complete the PSM form. The hope here is to evolve a system whereby that extra email isn't necessary.
For those of us who sell mostly items in the 2-5 pound area, this is going to be a real burden. In the past, like you, we've been able to put in the rate because 2-5 pounds was the same rate for all zones. Now 2-5 will be zoned, meaning you'd have to put in your TBA line on anything over 1 pound and get buyer's zip code before you could proceed. If we have to exchange emails with every buyer to get zip code, that pretty much diminishes the value of PSM.
What we're hoping for here is something to eliminate that burden.
Point well taken. I have a copy of the new rate chart. Whereas 5 lbs in Zone 1 through Zone 8 was $7.55 - it now varies from $5.85 in Zone 1 to $12.15 in Zone 8. That's quite a difference. But Zone 1 is now almost $1.70 less expensive. It runs pretty much the same for the other weights ie: 2 lbs. $3.95 to $5.75 - 3 lbs $4.75 to $8.55 - 4 lbs. $5.30 to $10.35 and so on. I wish I had an easy answer to resolve this problem. But it just looks like for the time being on June 30 we will have to live with the extra email. Thanks for your input. Steve
posted on June 11, 2002 09:09:52 PM new
The "lower" rate for zone 1 under the new rate schedule is a joke. If you're lucky, zone 1 is your state and maybe some bordering states, or parts of them. Heard from one guy who told me that one of the suburbs of the city he lives in is zone 2.
posted on June 12, 2002 08:38:30 AM new
Until a practical solution appears. Quote for First Class Mail which is non-zoned and at the point the first class rate is greater than the Priority Rate upgrade shipping to priority either refund the difference or pocket it your choice. This is practical up to about 2 pound. Alternative quote the highest rate and refund after the fact the difference. In any scenario it's going to be a pain. The first "solutions" will need solutions coupled with the low response rate to checkout anyway it will be doubly interesting. I see more email on the horizon.
posted on June 12, 2002 10:10:36 AM new
cyberageart
Thanks for the rates - I have been asking for over a week now and was sure it must be TOP SECRET.
Even tried the web but it wasn't updated even if it said it was. How did you get it?
Think I'll be doing a lot of jewelry sales.
I may try the highest rate with a refund by zone - I have a good track record and no neg FB so maybe it will work. I sure this will slow summer sales for awhile.
Thanks USPS for a wonderful summer!!!!!!!!!
posted on June 12, 2002 03:21:15 PM new
ladyjewels2000
Hi, got the new rate charts from the friendly folks at my PO. Yours should have them also. I'm there twice a week wth an average of 15 to 30 pkgs a week. So I'm on a first name basis with all of them. It is a small PO though. Only about 4 stations operating at peak times. Good luck, Steve
posted on June 12, 2002 04:10:17 PM new
I guess I have it a little easier. I live right in the middle of the country in Oklahoma. I think I will figure the highest price going east and charge everyone that price east of the mississippi. Then figure the highest price going west and charge everyone west of the mississippi that price. Except for hawaii and alaska!
I really don't know the solution but will probably start using ups more now. They are cheaper and have free insurance.
The main problem is I bump up shipping a little to pay for packing materials, time, and gas. If people figure their own shipping we lose on our expenses!
posted on June 17, 2002 06:35:11 AM new
Here it is, June 17th, and still no explanation of how AW plans to handle the new shipping rates. PLEASE keep us updated so we know what we have to look forward to. If AW isn't going to implement a new way to handle shipping, then we need to figure out our own way to do so, and we need to know AHEAD of time! I also would like to suggest getting the new system in place ASAP so we can list auctions that end near the 30th, and charge the new, proper rates. I ship only by Priority, and will be very affected by this change, so am quite anxious for some answers. Thanks!!
posted on June 17, 2002 08:21:50 PM new
I hope AW comes up with a solution to the USPS mess. I have been using them almost exclusively. I use UPS and Others for packages over 12 pounds and over size, but UPS won't ship bubble wrap cheap anymore and the "Man" uses priority now. I have told buyers to email their zip if package was over 5 pounds for 3 years and edited the WPN and send them options of first class or priority back. It's and extra step but it works ok. I now will have to tell them over 1 pound which is about everthing any way because you can save up to 13 ounces on first class. AW can make up a program that the buyer emails back the zip and we give him options - than we can directly link off our email from the buyer and resend the WPN would be great. Other wise Auto Check out will be only good to notify winner and have him send the zip and then you email him and wait for other emails BLAA!!
posted on June 20, 2002 05:05:28 PM new
I agree that AW system should be updated for the WBN to work more like ebay checkout, the buyer get winning notice , enters their shipping info & emails it back to seller, there the seller can calculate actual ship rates & email the updated invoice, I love the AW WBN's but for now I am switching back to ebay checkout so I can still use an automated system for WBN.
Hope you come up with a solution real soon AW.
posted on June 20, 2002 07:33:40 PM new
URGENT - This issue is rather vital to the running of our businesses. I am trying to list auctions tonight and as of tomorrow 7 day auctions will fall under the new postage rates. Since we must select a shipping method and enter a price we have to either make up a price since we have no idea what the shipping will be based on the zone shipping changes or we have to enter 0.00 and turn off the WBN. We can't have a WBN sent out and let a cutomer checkout with 0.00 postage because that will cause confusion and explanation to our customers.
This rate change has been coming for some time as well as the conversation about how AW would handle it. So at this point we need a plan. I love AW because of the automation but if we have to do it manually then AW becomes obsolete.
We need to be able to turn off the shipping table if we use actual shipping and have a shipping weight.
We need to be able to have a link on our auctions to a rate calculator for USPS and to FEDEX since after this rate change FEDEX will in most cases beat USPS rates over 2 lbs. This way buyers will be able to know the shipping amounts up front. If they don't most will not bid.
We then need to have the checkout take the zip code and calculate the shipping amounts for whichever the seller has selected as shipping vendors. Then the buyer can select the shipping method and the transactions moves along as normal.
posted on June 21, 2002 10:47:44 AM new
AW - Why haven't you been more pro-active on this subject. The eBay discussion boards are full of sellers who have developed code which they have implemented into their auctions to cover the new USPS zone charts.
We need these added into post sale management, otherwise we will be manually entering all the customer info ourselves after emailing the buyer back and forth to determine shipping costs/choices.
Check this board:
http://forums.ebay.com/dws?14@[email protected]
[ edited by jalleniii on Jun 21, 2002 10:51 AM ]
posted on June 21, 2002 01:51:09 PM new
I have looked around the eBay message boards and there are two tools to assist with calculating shipping. This allows the customer to at least know what their shipping will be although it doesn't fix the endless seller issues that have resulted from USPS changing their rates and AW not responding with a fix. I love AW but this was a major miss.
This gives the buyer the most information including Priority or Parcel Post options, Zone, handling if you charge it and insurance.
posted on June 22, 2002 08:51:15 AM new
I don't know about the rest of the sellers out there, but I'm getting pretty frustrated with no answers from AW as to what they are planning to do and when it will be done about the new shipping rates. At this point, we have 7 days left to come up with a way to handle the WBN and listings. This is causing me a lot of extra work setting up my auctions, and yet, I still don't know if I need to disable the automated WBN or not. I love AW, but right now, I feel like we are not getting what we pay for. An update from AW would be so nice! But there has been no comment from AW since 06/05/2002 regarding this issue. Come on guys! Keep us up to date, even if you don't have a precise answer, an idea of what is going on would be nice. WE NEED TO KNOW!! We can't wait till June 30th to change all our listings!!!
