When mailing one cassette tape, use FIRST CLASS.  When mailing more than one cassette, MEDIA MAIL is the least exspensive way! 

How much does it cost me to mail one cassette?  First of all, the least exspensive method would be USPS First-Class Mail:  total cost is about $1.50, which includes bubble envelope, Paypal's deliver confirmation, and actual postage.  It is actually less exspensive to use first-class than MEDIA MAIL for one cassette.

Rates Effective: May 12, 2008

How much does it cost me to mail  2 - 6 cassette tapes?  Using MEDIA MAIL, it will cost me about $2.00.  When I use PAYPAL to purchase my postage, my computer prints out a mailing label, with a a big letter "M".

To mail 1- 6 cassettes using USPS PRIORITY MAIL, it cost about $4.78 to ship anywhere in the country.  This includes the shipping box and electronic delivery confirmation.

So, how many cassttes can fit into one of those Flat Rate Boxes for $8.95?  I can easily get 65 cassettes (almost 10 pounds) into one box. 

When mailing cassettes which weigh over 7 pounds, PARCEL POST is cheaper than even our beloved MEDIA MAIL for some locations.  It is important to check the rate calculator on the USPS web site.  This is a very rare exception.

Conclusion: When mailing one cassette tape, use FIRST CLASS.  When mailing more than one cassette, MEDIA MAIL is the least exspensive way! 

Listing HINT #1: When using eBay's Shipping Calculator, why should I list the MEDIA MAIL option first?  Because this is the least exspensive shipping method; and the first option is the one that will show up in the search engines.  If you list EXPRESS MAIL first, buyers will see a "$16.75 Shipping" right next to your auction item.

Listing HINT #2: Offer FREE Shipping and Handling when buyers choose MEDIA MAIL.  And always give them the option of FIRST-CLASS and PRIORITY MAIL.  There is something wrong about buying a cassette for $0.01 and paying $5.00 Shipping and Handling.