Tim is correct when he speaks of purchasing materials to ship items in, and the time it takes you to purchase these items, package your sold item, and travel to the Post Office to mail it.

I've sold a lot of items on eBay. I've purchased many items too. I try to "recycle" the packing material and have never had to purchase any material to use for packing purposes.

I only charge what the actual shipping and insurance is. It's been a while since I shipped an HL, but I think it cost me around $8.00 or so with insurance. Needless to say I bought more items then I sold in the HL line. My Postman even asked, "What is all this stuff?"

I agree with you folks that excessive shipping charges can be a turn off when I review the items for auction on eBay. Yes, I do believe some people make a profit on the shipping charge. Maybe these are the people who are trying to earn a living doing this. Remember: "Time is money!" My view is, "It's Only Money!"

Bob