A Word (or Two) About Shipping...

Everyone always wants to know, so we might as well address it right up front.  What are Shipping/Handling charges, and what do they include?

I use a variety of charges, and I try to be as fair as possible to everyone, including myself.  Shipping and Handling is not simply a matter of stamps that go on an envelope. 

I pack your purchases very carefully, using plenty of bubble wrap, and I ship almost* every item in a heavy-duty "Jiffy"  Bubble Wrap Cushioned Mailer.  (That means your purchases are doubly protected!)  I always include your printed invoice in your packing and often you'll find a little "thank-you" inside as well. (Check my feedback for comments on my "little "thank-yous!" ;-)

*Some large bulky items may be boxed.

I normally charge $3.50 for the first light to medium-weight item.  $4.00 for heavier items (such as bead strands) $4.50-$6.00  for heavy and bulky items such as heavy chain, heavy tool items, or some of those big multi-pack items sold at auction.  All charges are listed in the ads under "shipping".  I charge $0.75- $1.00 for additional items, when you are purchasing with a Single PayPal Transaction.  When you have a large order, I'll normally "cap off" your shipping charges to a reasonable amount, based on weight and volume.  I'm not out to take all your money in S/H charges, I only need to recoup my fees!  I don't want to scare off any return customers with ridiclous over charges.  These prices are for First Class Mail.  Priority Mail is available, by special request, (and fee, of course.)

Canadian Buyers- I can normally send your packages USPS First Class International for the about $0.50 for the first item, over the rates as U.S. Postage.  It is wise however, to wait until you receive your personalized invoice from me, or to send me an inquiry before you send your Paypal payment.  Delivery may take a few extra days over USPS Priority Mail International, but that option is available to Canadian Clients for an extra fee. (Please note however, that I have had a few customers from British Columbia whose packages have taken up to two weeks to receive!  It's a long way from South Carolina, USA to British Columbia, CA!)  I will be happy to send your packages Priority Mail International , if you request, for faster service.  See International Buyers below.

For International Buyers,  (Other than Canada) I  am now offering First Class Mail International Shipping to all International clients to which I sell.  Due to the recent rate changes and improvements in shipping times, this seems to be a satisfactory new option. Cost starts at $5.00 for first item, additional items $0.75.   

USPS Priority Mail International is available - it is just like the old Global Priority Mail, however the rates have more than doubled!  Rates Start at $15.00 for first item, additional items $0.75  Priority Mail International  is Fast, Safe, and for items weighing under one pound, no customs forms!  Normal Delivery time is usually 3-5 days, but the US Postal Service does not guarantee the delivery time for obvious reasons. (They have no control over other countries' postal delivery times)  Charges vary by weight, but the minimum fee is $8.00.  Please inquire before payment. 

 Please note that not all countries accept Priority Mail International  from the USA. 

What is meant by Handling in "Shipping and Handling?"  Basically, that is all the stuff you don't see...those pesky little fees nobody likes to talk about.  PayPal charges merchants to receive money from buyers.  eBay charges "fees" to sell to customers.  It costs to buy the packing materials, and it costs to crank up my gas-guzzling old SUV and drive 12 miles to the closest Post Office.  Plus, there is a lot of time involved in packing up all those nice little packages that you get in your mailbox.  If I tacked on all those costs in the 'profit-margin' of my products, I'd never get you to look at my ads!  So most of us on eBay who don't have the luxury of just selling for the 'fun of it' have to add a few cents in the shipping costs, and call it handling, just to recoup a few of those fees.  I guess we're handling it off to you!  That is one of the reasons I make sure to try to let you know how very much I appreciate your business!