Shipping options when listing an auction.

[ae*1008]

Not sure I did this right the first time -- so will ask again.

When I created a listing for some used event tickets I had the option of choosing 1st Class Letter -- package was 3 ounces and the flat bubble envelope measured 6" by 9".   However, when I went to print the shipping label -- the 1st Class Letter was not an option --- just Ground Advantage -- consequently, the buyer did not pay enough to cover the cost of shipping.  Since the cost of 1st Class Letter was listed in the auction -- I can't go back now and correct that.

I've had this happen a couple of times and I was able to correct the postage before there were any bids -- but not on this auction.  Why does eBay let this happen???

[wastingtime101]

Do not choose First Class Letter. That service means you are shipping untracked with a postage stamp and cannot buy that stamp through eBay.

Instead, set up your listings with Ground Advantage which is a tracked package service.

"Why does eBay let this happen???"

I am very grateful eBay gives sellers the option of choosing whichever shipping method works for their business, including shipping untracked with a postage stamp. I've sold and shipped tons of items that way because they were low priced and it was cost effective and I was willing to accept the risk of paying out on non-receipt claims.

[ae*1008]

Unless I didn't see it - there should be a note indicating the restriction on this shipping option.  Thank you for letting me know 

[wastingtime101]

Every shipping option has restrictions, whether it's size or weight or rigidity or type of item or type of packaging or something else. eBay cannot possibly list all restrictions on the listing form.

Sellers need to take responsibility for the options they choose before listing an item for sale, and that includes researching shipping services before selecting them.

I know I'm being blunt without sugar coating; this is just one of those situations where laying out the plain facts seems like the best advice I can offer.

All that said, you are selling items for next to nothing - $1-2 - and with the cost of shipping and the fact you pay fees on total amount buyer pays, I don't see how you're making any profit. I suggest evaluating what you're selling and the prices to see what's actually worth selling, what's better sold in lots, or for higher prices, or donated because there's no value, or whatever the case may be. And if you want help with any items - post on the Selling forum and people will be happy to help.

The tickets, if not too thick, can be shipped in a plain non-bubble envelope untracked with postage stamps. Value is very low so even if the buyer files a claim it won't be a big deal to refund, but I think risk of a claim is low. You don't have to ship with tracked package service.

Hope this helps!

[ae*1008]

I'm not in this to make money.  The resale shop I go to was not able to take many of my items because they were overstocked & I didn't want to throw them away.  I would prefer to give them away.  Most of these items would not command higher prices anyway.

[wastingtime101]

Books you can usually donate to the library for their book sale. Clothing you can donate to thrift or church or homeless shelter. Housewares you can donate to thrift or church.

There are a lot of options where you can donate other than a single resale shop if that's your preference.

[ae*1008]

The resale shop I go to is not a consignment shop.  It's called Resource.  The other places I have donated to are closed down because of the flood last year (Vermont)

[ae*1008]

Forgot to mention --  the small library in my town did not want books on jewelry