I Do not agree that Priority only benifits the seller. I prefer to have my items shipped via Priority as they are usualy of a fragile nature. Parcel Post Sucks, It is shipped on a Space Only Availability. Your package can sit for days at a mail facility. (Federal Way here in my part of the country) I have never once recieved a box Parcel that was not damaged or smashed. Plus I like to get my stuff on a timely basis. I had a El Cheapo ebay customer who would not pay $12.00 (actual cost) Priority by his request. He wanted Parcel as it was $11.50. I shipped this package from Las Vegas to Virginia - 21 days in the mail system. The buyer went balistic as it took so long, struck me with my first and only negative feedback (I have 500 +). I think having an Item show up or be delivered in a matter of Days without Damage is worth it.
I want to be careful about beating a dead horse here, but you make some good points. I agree with you, priority shipping lives up to its name - Priority. When it is warranted, then have at it.
I find that most model kits are anything BUT priority, however. Just another Mustang kit? A few old Monogram bits?.. save the Priority stuff. So it sits for a while and takes a few dings along the way. Again, big deal. In the main, we’re talking ebay here, since most retailers dont mess with priority ship unless the customer requests it.
But it’s more about the fact that people are not flogging posts and know, even crave, value. Everything has a natural sell price, including shipping. People will pay more, but it leaves a bad taste behind when they are forced to do so. When it is in your control, show them you understand that. Have a quick read through this thread and you’ll see how many would prefer to not be charged to get a package a day sooner, or to have it in a fancy box. Again, my bubble wrap and kraft paper treatment has yet to fail me.
It’s not what I want to see happen, nor want to see go into the mail box at the end of the day. These are your customers, your bidders, your buyers and they are talking here. I humbly suggest their opinion should hold sway, since they also hold the money. Without them, I only have merchandise, tying up my own money.
I’ve tried it both ways and I ALWAYS get more bidders, folks who are willing to keep the bidding going when the shipping is within reason. One of the things they tell me is they appreciate my “natrual” shipping charges. They are there looking for a deal - that’s what auctions are about. Give it to them and watch what happens.