Posted By:
martindl
As a seller I think theres a fairly simple way to address the cost of postage and packing. If you buy from me you pay exact postage plus a minimal charge for packaging, usually a dollar or less (because thats all it costs).
In the listing I charge what I think it will cost, say $4, and then if the total is less than that I refund the difference. I send the buyer an email stating what the exact postage charge was and itemize the packaging fees. I don't charge for things like tape and if I use materials that I already have (i.e. I don't buy new) then I don't charge anything.
I state that upfront in all my auctions. People seem to appreciate that they're being treated fairly. I'm surprised more people don't do it.