Free Shipping versus Shipping Charges

[Former_Member]

Hi All,
I am wondering what everyone thinks of offering freeshipping? [from New Zealand]
My items at this time are all freeshipping as I just couldnt fathom it all to begin with. The shipping option I would use is 3-10 day delivery [via NZ Post] I post to my family in Canada like this and usually gets there around 7-10 days.
I figure around $10 for a necklace and $6.00 for earrings or something smaller into my item cost.
Do you think buyers would prefer to see the shipping cost outlined separately and be able to buy the item at the reduced cost, or is Free Shipping an attractive option?
Thank-you all in advance for your feedback.

[Former_Member]

Most customers are aware that 'free shipping' isn't really free. Its generally included as part of the item price.

However if you are actually offering 'free shipping' can you afford to take that kind of hit to your profit?

Personally, if I see more than one item that I want to purchase from a shop and they are offering free shipping I generally will shop elsewhere since I know that I'll be paying full shipping price for both items.

And don't forget too that Etsy fees are based only on the selling price of the item and not the shipping charge so your fees will be increased as well.

[Former_Member]

Don't do it. I used to do it, and, even though I did not "hide" the charge in the price of my item, I was accused of it over and over and over.

Some people just will never believe you, no matter how honest you are. And they won't let up. Trust me. I had an ugly incident on another selling site because of this very issue.

Just charge the shipping and save yourself a world of nightmares and headaches.

[seemomster]

I offer domestic *shipping included*. The cost of the shipping is worked into the price of the piece. I'm very up-front about it. I ship everything priority flat-rate. For interational shipping is +20.00 US.

I've gotten several positive comments from customers over the years...they like the WYSIWYG aspect (and no surprises at checkout!). I don't know. Everyone's shop is different...

Crochetgal--as to--paying full price for shipping two items...I usually have to upgrade to a larger box if someone buys a second piece from me, because of my gift boxing. So that is *not* true in my shop.