Issues with shipping fees charging me more than buyer
Summary: rack2991sue is experiencing discrepancies in shipping costs on eBay, where they consistently pay more than buyers for the same shipment. They use calculated shipping with an added handling fee but have noticed this happening frequently, suspecting a system issue rather than a rate change. christworks explained that USPS rates through eBay might change due to negotiated commercial rates that do not get public notice, advising to monitor announcements for updates. sassykzt suggested checking shipping policies and preferences to ensure there are no settings impacting costs, such as the irregular package option.
I’ve had several orders in the last few weeks where the shipping I was charged as the seller was higher than what the buyer paid. My listings are set up for calculated shipping based on weight and size, and the buyer pays that amount. I also include a $1.00 handling charge and do not pass on the full shipping discount to buyers.
Because of this, I’m seeing a consistent pattern where I’m paying more than the buyer for the same shipment, even when using USPS Ground. This has happened multiple times recently, so it appears to be a system issue rather than a rate change. I don't change the weights or package size when the order is paid and I print the shipping label. When I speak to a agent they claim that USPS changed thier rates from the time the buyer purchased and I shipped. This seems impossible as I have one day shipping and USPS is a government agency and can't just change rates overnight. Any ideas how to resolve this with ebay?
sassykzt
·2 weeks ago · EditedDouble check your shipping policies created by you in your business policies ( if applicable) and check your shipping preferences. Also check your listings that the irregular package box is not checked. * this was an issue in the past as it was a default and had many sellers complaining that shipping costs were higher than expected.
christworks
·3 weeks ago · Edited@rack2991sue
Although USPS is a government entity and is subject to Postal Regulatory Commission oversight, the USPS rates offered through eBay are contractually negotiated, proprietary commercial rates—not ordinary retail postage rates. The specific terms and pricing schedules may be confidential and filed under seal, so changes do not necessarily receive the same public notice as a general USPS rate change.
USPS has made so many rate adjustments involving different zones, rural areas, and weight classes over the past two months, I've honestly lost count. Yes, it is highly likely that your buyer is paying the current rate when they make their purchase, but when you buy the label the rate has changed.
The best way to stay on top of this is to join the announcement board and check back every couple of days for updates. There is another change coming August 22.
If you have a specific example you want us to double check for you, provide the weight and size of the package along with the zone it is being shipped to.