I have heard that many people look at the shipping cost in determining their final bid price. That makes a lot of sense to me. That way the buyer is determining what an item is worth to them. If it's too high... don't pay it.

As long as the shipping is clearly stated, no one should complain. My problem would be with sellers who quote a shipping price after an auction ends... and grossly inflates that.

I recently bought a small jewelry item. The seller charged $3 shipping. It arrived in a padded envelope and cost 66 cents to mail. I wasn't upset because I was TOLD the $3 fee upfront... and bid accordingly.

At my post office we have to step to the side and fill out delivery confirmation and insurance forms ourselves. I now keep a batch at home.. and fill them out when I address packages.

My guess on the $4 handling fee for the insurance was that the man didn't know how to do it... and was trying to discourage it. (I'd make a comment on the fragility of the male ego at times... but it might sound a bit sexist LOL)

Mary Kate