Shipping costs are part of the total costs buyers pay for items. Many buyers see it as an additional cost, but there are ways you can use shipping as an advantage and even to up your sales.
Ideas to Get Started
Bundle shipping costs within your item, and list it as FREE Shipping
- This helps your listing rank higher in Search results, compared to sellers who charge for shipping.
- An eye-catching "Free Shipping" icon on the View Item page also makes your listing more attractive.
Keep your shipping costs LOW in your listing
- On many eBay sites, buyers can now sort results by price + shipping. Having low shipping will increase your chances of closing more sales.
- When the price of your item is lower than its shipping costs, buyers may perceive that you're charging excessive shipping and reflect that in your Detailed Seller Ratings. Get past this by factoring in more shipping charges in the item price.
Use shipping to make your item more attractive to buyers
- Offer flat shipping rates to specific areas (e.g. US$3 for registered mail)
- Offer combined shipping (English only). When items are dispatched together, your shipping costs are lower. It'll also encourage Buyers to buy more from you at one go!
- Take advantage of any courier discounts, and pass these savings to your Buyers.
Wrap it up well!
- Receiving a nicely packaged item will put a smile on your buyers' faces. Including a nice Thank You note can keep them smiling even longer and create a lasting impression.
- Including a small, bonus Free Gift can brighten up your buyer's day, especially when they are not expecting it.
- Offering a discount voucher for future purchases is also great for repeat sales.