OK people. There are too many threads bashing handling, supporting
hanlding, complaining about overcharges, etc. that buyers have a very
hard time finding out what is really expected and what to do. Here are
some common sense (for those that appreciate common sense over bashing)
approaches on how to handle shipping and handling.

(1) Handling is a charge that is generally used by sellers to offset
the cost of packaging and shipping items. Generally, handling charges
on ebay include packaging costs (boxes; packaging materials - peanuts,
bubblewrap, etc; and miscellaneous office supplies; handling (time or
wages to package; time to deliver to the shipper; etc); and
miscellaneous expenses as applicable (cost of storage for shipping
supplies; expenses to operate the shipping area; etc.).

(2) Although the above is typically the definition of handling, sellers
have a right to charge whatever they wish for handling. eBay will not
get involved in this aspect of a seller's operation unless it is an
obvious case of fee avoidance.

(3) If a seller is charging handling, it should be posted in the
auction, either in the form of a fixed shipping auction, or by adding a
statement "Buyer pays actual postage plus x.xx handling", or something
along those lines.

(4) By bidding on an auctions, buyers are agreeing to the terms of the
auction.

(5) If a fixed shipping amount is posted, it should not be assumed that
the posted shipping amount is going to be the same as actual postage.
A buyer should assume that there is handling included regardless of
whether the seller calls the fixed amount postage, shipping, or S/H.

(6) eBay has made it known that they agree that "Buyer Pays Actual
Shipping" is intended to state that the seller will charge actual
carrier charges only. Anything above actual postage is contrary to
this statement. However, since this is not a published policy, sellers
incorrectly use if for a variety of reasons, including gouging of their
buyers.

(7) If the shipping amount is not stated, BUYER BEWARE!!!! Find out
the shipping amount before bidding or take your chances.

(8) IMO, a buyer has a right to terminate a sale if the seller does not
post a fixed shipping amount and then overcharges on shippping.
However, at this point, the buyer is subject to negative feedback and
an NPB notice. The buyer can respond and challenge both, as well as
leaving their own feedback. However, at this point, it is considered
damage control.

(9) Packaging quality is the other side of the coin. By charging
shipping and handling, a seller is agreeing to packaging the item
securely for shipment to ensure that the item arrives to the buyer in
the condition as stated in the acution. If there is a shipping method
stated, the seller is agreeing to ship by that method. A buyer has the
right to receive the item well packaged and in the condition as
described (see exception under insurance).

(10) There is no way to know the quality of packing that a seller
provides for sure. However, by checking the seller's feedback
specifically for both positive and negative comments regarding
packaging, a buyer can get a good feeling for quality of packing.

(11) Insurance. If insurance is offered as an option, a buyer should
assume that the seller will offer no replacement or refund if the item
is lost or damaged in transit unless insurance is purchased. If
insurance is not offered, the seller is assuming the responsibility.
However, this is another problem area for buyers in that the seller
will quite often not stand behind the item during shipment. It is
always best to request insurance, unless the buyer is willing to accept
the risk, or contact the seller and find out their guarantee/refund
policy before sending payment.

(12) Combining auctions. Unless an auction specifically states that
the seller will combine auctions to reduce shipping, there is no
implied agreement that the seller will do so. Even if a seller does
combine, the amount of reduction in total shipping is variable. If
combining shipping is important to your bidding, contact the seller
(before bidding) and ask them what shipping would be with the items
being considered.

(13) Third-party shippers. IMO, the costs of third-party shipping
includes a handling charge. Therefore, these should not be lumped
under "actual shipping" auctions. However, sellers do. Therefore,
again, find out the shipping amount and method prior to bidding on
these types of auctions.

(14) If you email the seller regarding the item, shipping or shipping
method, and do not get a response, DO NOT BID!!!! You are only walking
into a situation where you might get robbed on shipping/handling.

I agree that many of these issues should be addressed by the seller in
their auctions, and the buyer should be able to assume certain
standards. However, this have been proven to not be the case. Buyers,
it is your money you are spending on these items. You want the items
in the condition as described and you want your sellers to be fair. Do
what you need to do up front to protect your money. Most sellers do
want to provide you a quality product, but many out there are trying to
cover profits or gouge buyers.

You, the buyers have a responsibility to understand the auction process
and the terms of the seller, especially regarding shipping and
handling. You must understand what you are agreeing to when bidding
and how you can be "taken" with unstated terms, especially regarding
shipping and handling. By exercising this responsibility, you have a
right to receive your item well packaged and in the condition as
described. You have a right unconditionally to expect the seller to
stand behind the item if it is not as described or if it is damaged due
to seller neglect in packaging. Furthermore, you have the
responsibility to other to post feedback identifying the problems
encountered with a seller regarding these.

I hope this novella helps new buyers and seller understand the concept
of shipping and handling before they get taken. Of even help in
situations where the buyer gets in a situation. Unfortunately, I feel
that this thread will probably die a quick death as the trend of those
that post here is to avoid logic and common sense and allow tempers and
emotions to control their thinking and actions.

Anyone, please add to this or comment.

Steve