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Why does my postage change when someone orders?
Summary: mdsknight expressed frustration about unexpected increases in shipping costs for items sold on eBay. They originally listed items with certain shipping rates, but were charged significantly more upon sale. inceptions explained that this issue arises from using a flat rate for shipping and advised switching to calculated shipping to ensure postage costs are accurately based on package size, weight, and destination.
The last two items I've sold had one amount for postage when I listed the item, but when sold I am suddenly being charged more for shipping? I sold a CB radio and when I posted it (and more importantly, what the buyer paid for shipping) the shipping price was $5.88. The postage was actually $19.19! I almost sold this at a loss. I sold another CB today, and again originally shipping was $5.58, but I was charged $11.17.
Will Ebay correct this error or will I be stuck with these inaccurate shipping rates going forward?
Very frustrating!
inceptions
Mentor2 weeks ago · EditedHi @mdsknight
This is not an eBay error.
You set up the listing with a flat rate for shipping (every buyer pays the same no matter where the package is going). Since the postage is determined by the package size and weight, class of service, and the destination zip code, you will lose money when shipped to most locations.
For the future, you should set up your shipping parameters using calculated shipping so that eBay can calculate the correct shipping for each buyer. When you list, select calculated shipping and enter the package size and weight. The buyer will be charged the correct amount based on the shipping location.