Hello, This is more likely the story of my experience rather than a neutral guide. But I hope it will help some of you, who are seeking help through fellow ebayers. As a BUYER and SELLER I am confronted with both sides and the involved GOOD, BAD and UGLY. Shipping fees should be reasonable, so should be added combined fees, the buyer should always have the option to decide whether he/she wants added insurance, but should also be aware of the fact, that without insurance the chance is very small to recuperate payments, in case the won item gets lost or damaged during shipping. Insurance fees depend on the final item price, 1.65 for up to $50, 2.05 for up to $100 and so on. It's always wise to request a TOTAL from a seller, instead of paying right away, as GOOd sellers always try to satisfy their clients by being fair and honest. If you are NOT sure what to expect or are confused by a seller's payment instruction, just email them and ask them, most answer inbetween 24 hours. As sellers, we occur lots of fees for listings etc, and buyers sometimes are NOT really aware of HOW MUCH work, time and money goes into listing items. I know everyone wants to find bargains, and people also check how much some sellers charge for shipping etc. I, as a seller, charge a reasonable amount for shipping and handling, with reduced fees for combined shipping, Insurance is optional. I also stop charging for additional shipping fees when I KNOW that the shipping fees are covered. For example, a buyer wins 5 of my auctions and would pay 3.50 for the first item, I would NOT charge additional 4 times 1.50. I would charge just the weight of the ONE parcel, or just charge NOTHING, or add Insurance out of my pocket. Since I am selling handmade Jewelry, I have costs which most buyers are NOT aware of, like jewelry boxes, pouches etc. I don't just throw my items into a bubblewrap envelope, the designs come well packed, it's part of my service, and it involves also time and money. I also combine shipping fees, even if a buyer already has paid for one item and wins another piece a day later. In any event, there are sellers who charge additional fees, even if you win 30 of their bead auctions, so they make their cut WITH shipping fees, which to my mind is kind of sneaky. Even though those sellers state their rules in their description, I think, they should STOP charging after a certain amount. It's just NOT right when someone buys or wins 20 items worth $25 (example) and then has to pay $38 in shipping within the USA. And most buyers don't even read the shipment rules and are shocked when they get the final invoice. Worse are sellers who have 99 cent auctions and then charge $25 for shipping. They should be eliminated, as it's against ebay rules. My final thought is, eBay for me is a way to meet friendly and awesome people, and COMMUNICATION is a MUST. I have 2 epileptic Mastiffs and am restricted to stay at home, so ebay is my way to be out in the world, I am only human, I try to make people happy with my items and try to bring some FUN into other people's life. As I have mentioned these are the thoughts of ONE seller and don't reflect others. I am HONEST and HELPFUL, and wish to be treated respectfully. If this guide doesn't help you to look into the soul and thoughts of a seller, then I can't help you. Have a nice day barb