posted on February 1, 2012 09:31:22 AM new
Received this question yesterday:
Hello,
I really like your items.
But is it possible for you to ship the item to Denmark at a cheaper price than $39?
I think it is a bit expensive. I have been recieving items from for example Hong Kong with free shipping or shipping for around $3-10.
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Generally, I reply with a simple explanation regarding shipping prices, but this person is justifying their issue with shipping costs based on Communist China. Additionally, they don't indicate if the item is the same or not... which I doubt. For all I know, he probably bought a thin computer cord for $1 including free shipping from China.
My reply was: "Our shipping costs are based on the least expensive method that meets Paypal requirements to track the package. Americans don't work 16 hour days in a sweatshop for 10 cent a day. We don't have subsidized shipping fees from a Communist Country."
posted on February 1, 2012 01:24:37 PM new
The sellers who charge less for shipping -free or 4-10 dollars for small items are shipping first class mail with no overseas tracking .
They are either buying insurance in case item is lost or damaged and PAPAL is not providing any protection or they just dont mind taking a chance,you know the saying NO Risk,No REWARD!
China is no longer a communist country,HK is not a communist country.
Chinese wages are no longer dirt cheap,its yuan has gone from 8 yuans to one US dollar to 6.8 yuans to one US dollar ,food inflation is hurting the working class and housing bubbles is hurting those who seek affordable housing.
It is really up to you,you can charge 9.95 for a small item,ship first class and still have money left over to buy insurance and a cup of coffee!
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posted on February 2, 2012 02:17:29 AM new
If the item is less than $200 and can be shipped 1st class, I do. I insure with U Pic
and everyone is happy. (so far - knock on wood)
posted on February 2, 2012 07:22:49 AM new
USPS prioity fixed rate small box is only 13.95,but it is not trackable.
If USPS makes it trackable,we will get more overseas buyers.
I can understand your buyer ,high shipping does not add value to the item he is buying.
neither does high sales tax!
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posted on February 3, 2012 05:13:01 AM new
The customer is only asking for a discount. It's a simple yes or no. Why go into all the blah, blah? The person is still a potential customer. When people ask for a discount,I thank them for the email and offer and I decline. On occasion they still buy the item.
posted on February 3, 2012 09:20:14 PM new
'Please, sir, I want some more.'
The master was a fat, healthy man; but he turned very pale. He gazed in stupified astonishment on the small rebel for some seconds, and then clung for support to the copper. The assistants were paralysed with wonder; the boys with fear.
'What!' said the master at length, in a faint voice.
'Please, sir,' replied Oliver, 'I want some more.'
posted on February 4, 2012 07:21:28 AM new
But then I dont blame Shag for sticking to Paypal seller protection guidelines.
I have inquiries from overseas buyers,they found out I have shipped the items with no tracking (just the customs code) and claimed they have not received the item.
One asked after 70 days and the other asked after 60 days,Paypal policy said any complaint should be filed within 45 days of payment!
posted on February 4, 2012 01:17:06 PM new
After a decade of selling on eBay, the one lesson I have learned is that when you create a policy, especially for online, always state your policy upfront and don't give in. I create policies to protect us from fraud and other problems.
My experience has always been that the person looking for the bargain will be the first to scrutinize something well beyond reason too. They will find anything to complain about, even if it doesn't exist in order to get it for even less.
I have also learned to stick to the rules set by eBay and Paypal. It saves me in time and post sale headaches than anything else. There is nothing worse than spending a half hour dealing with a problem and the stress it causes because I chose to go against the policy.
I also think it truly depends on the product you sell. Age of the buyer and their income level plays a big factor in this. It seems that the older and higher income your target market is, the less likely you will find bottom feeders... though the risk is greater on anything as the price increases.
posted on February 4, 2012 02:00:48 PM new
This is something new to me,to go back to your purchased items from 50,60,70 days ago and click on the tracking number to find out it shows no delivery information and complain?
