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eBay closes a loophole

The Stamp Collecting Report, I'm Lloyd de Vries.

eBay has announced changes to its fee structure it says are designed to cut down on 
excessive shipping charges, maybe even encourage sellers to offer free shipping.

The online auction site will now include postage and handling charges when it figures 
its commission on a sale.

For years, many people selling stamps, as well as other merchandise, have offered their 
products at absurdly low prices....but charged exorbitant shipping fees. For example, a 
six dollar stamp for 99 cents.....plus 7 dollars postage and handling.

And eBay was only getting a commission on the 99 cents.

So now there's no reason for sellers to hide higher prices in shipping costs.

On the other hand....eBay wants sellers to use a shipping service that provides proof 
of delivery....and that DOES cost several dollars.

Otherwise, unscrupulous buyers can claim they never received the merchandise....and eBay 
turns around and forces the seller to refund the money. 

It's even worse when shipping outside the U-S, which is common for stamp collecting. 
Many foreign postal services don't offer delivery confirmation....which means a much more 
expensive shipping service.

What's going to happen is that sellers of inexpensive stamps on eBay will have to raise 
their prices...a lot. ....or take a chance on the honesty of their customers.

eBay has been a great marketplace for stamp collecting....but buyers and sellers of 
inexpensive stamps may soon find themselves squeezed out....and going elsewhere.

I'm Lloyd de Vries of The Virtual Stamp Club. For more on stamps and stamp collecting, 
visit virtual-stamp-club-dot-com

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