To all you new folks out there - Welcome! There are lots of good ideas out there. Mostly communicate with the seller. As a seller, I am always interested in helping you out if you have questions. If you have a problem. Let me know. It normally can be worked out. The thing that new buyers (and old) buyers need to be aware of is the seller has very little control over shipping costs. Seller's ratings are now 'rated' into different categories. One of them is shipping costs. Please understand that the seller has very little control over this. The postal system controls the rates and the seller can add a small handling fee. I add a small fee to cover the cost of peanuts, bubble wrap, padded envelopes, labels, etc. This is allowed by Ebay. Regarding the shipping, if you think it is to high then you have the choice not to buy the item or ask the seller if they can ship at a lower cost. Normally, you will receive a logical explanation or the seller will work with you to reduce shipping. OK.... the transaction is now complete and you've received your item and as very pleased with it so you go leave feedback. You think you're leaving wonderful feedback but you check the box that you feel the shipping was high. You have now really hurt the seller in a big way. Remember, the seller does not set the rates for shipping. The post office does.What happens with the seller is their overall average ratings go below 4.5 and they are not allowed by Ebay to have any seller discounts on commissions. This is thanks to their wonderful new rating system (and it is a big joke and lots of sellers are leaving because of it). Remember to check the package. If there is a huge difference in the actual posted rate on your package versus what you actually paid, then you have a right to state that the shipping was too high BUT if the shipping is within a dollar or two then your perception of the seller overcharging is incorrect and you are doing lots of damage for the seller's rating system. Remember too that the seller doesn't get to see who left what individual ratings so they can't go to you to find out why you rated them the way you did. So, I hope that helps and you think twice before you go responding about shipping costs. IT IS THE US POST OFFICE AND NOT THE SELLER'S FAULT FOR THE HIGH COSTS.