Shipping Information:
Lately there has
been some confusion on postage costs, when it comes to some of the
smaller pieces of mail I send out. The confusion lies in the idea that
it should not cost more than and envelope and a stamp. For this reason I
would like to clarify how I handle each piece of older paper I handle.
I do not ship any items using a stamp and envelope and here are the reasons why:
1)
No matter what the condition, when it leaves my hands it will come
between 2 pieces of hard backer board (it could be regular cut
cardboard, but at present, and most times, it will be stiffer backer). I
also waterproof the item. This makes the item larger and heavier than a
small envelope would handle.
2) If I
opted for stamps on large envelope, this would still start creeping up
in postage cost but more importantly this type of shipping has very
limited tracking, and at this time, I prefer full tracking. It's better
for both the customer and me.
3) With all the
condition above being met, there is very small wiggle room on funds. I
do not charge a "handling fee" even though there is a place for it.
I
appreciate my customers. I do not overcharge, and frequently
undercharge because of flat fees. Sometimes it comes out just right and
sometimes I might have 80 cents left over on it. In the end, the post
office, the gas tank, the shipping tape, the envelope, and whatever else
pops up takes that too. :-)