The other day I was sitting around in my office and decided to see how free shipping works in the coupon business. Let's explore this issue in greater detail. Please read on and then look for Fiona in all of my listings. Her goofy mug guarantees you will receive a fair price on your coupon needs with reasonable shipping to boot!

• Here is an example of a listing I offered recently:

Hunts Tomato Products Coupons (20) .40/1  exp xx/xx/xx (I offered 20/$1.00)

When you buy one packet you would pay : $1.00 + $1.00 shipping on this item. If you buy two packets, your shipping becomes $1.00 + .25 for that additional packet. Total cost for these 2 items is: $3.25 - PERIOD.  

Now, let's assume that you buy in bulk and you want 20 bundles of this item. Here is what you pay for a total of twenty (20) ct packets at $1.00 each:

$20 for my time (after all..the coupons are free) + $1.00 for the first packet shipping and $4.75 for the additional 19 packets. This gives you a grand total on your purchase from me of: $25.75. That's it. You pay, I ship the next business day.

• Here is an example of a listing for the same item with "free shipping" offered by another seller.

(20) Hunts Tomato Products Coupons .40/1 xx/xx/xx (they offered 20/$2 w FREE SHIPPING)

When you purchase 1 packet from this other seller you pay $2.00 and receive free shipping. Period. So far, we are equal- Read on. If you buy 2 packets it will cost you $4. I am already less expensive, no matter what they advertise.

Let's project that out using the formula of a bulk purchase of twenty (20) ct packs at $2.00 each: 

20 x $2.00 = $40.00 with "free shipping"

The Free Shipping looks good until you realize you are paying more per packet. Now, who is really looking out for your best interest and who really offers you the best value for your money?

My way: $1.00 + $1 and .25 each additional for a total cost to you of $25.75*

or

Their way: $2 for every packet you buy with "free shipping" for a total cost to you of  $40.00. Even if this individual offers you the price of $1.75 + FREE SHIPPING you still pay $35.00.

* As the SELLER, I have the right to charge for my supplies, my gas and my time and my fees associated with selling on ebay. As the BUYER you have the right to buy from whomever you choose. So the next time you place an order - PLEASE remember -There is no such thing as "FREE SHIPPING" in the coupon biz.

Newhaas2

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