What is how to combine shipping on ebay?

Combining shipping on eBay can save buyers money and streamline the shipping process for sellers. Here's a breakdown:

How it Works:

  • Buyer Initiates Request: A buyer purchases multiple items from the same seller. Before paying, the buyer should request a total from the seller. This is crucial!

  • Seller Sends Invoice: The seller calculates the combined shipping cost and sends a revised invoice to the buyer. The seller should ensure the combined shipping cost reflects the actual cost of shipping the items together, considering weight, dimensions, and destination.

  • Buyer Pays: Once the buyer receives the revised invoice with the combined shipping cost, they can pay for the items.

Seller Options and Settings:

  • Shipping Rules: Sellers can set up shipping rules in their eBay settings to automatically combine shipping based on certain criteria (e.g., similar items, same address). These rules can be customized by weight, item quantity, or a flat discount.

  • Promotional Shipping Discounts: Sellers can offer promotional shipping discounts such as "Free shipping on additional items" or "X amount off shipping when you buy two or more items." These are configured in the marketing section of Seller Hub.

  • Handling Time: Consider handling time when combining shipping. It might take extra time to package multiple items together securely.

Buyer Considerations:

  • Check Listings: Before buying, check the seller's listing description for their shipping policies and whether they offer combined shipping.

  • Contact the Seller: If the shipping information is unclear, contact the seller before purchasing to inquire about combined shipping options.

  • Wait for Invoice: Always wait for the seller to send a revised invoice before paying for multiple items. Paying for items individually may make it difficult to get a shipping refund.

Important Notes:

  • Not all sellers offer combined shipping.
  • The seller is not obligated to offer combined shipping, but it's often beneficial for both parties.
  • Communication is key! Both buyer and seller should communicate clearly about shipping expectations.