Packing, the most important part
of shipping.
Double Box with 2.5 inches of
packing all around in both layers.
Inside the box put a piece of paper
with your name, address, telephone and whiat is in the box, approximately
how many pieces. (This is how we know if it was broken additionally.)
Then mark FRAGILE
on the outside and,
if necessary, "This side up" and "Hand transfer" to try to keep the box
from being tumbled on a conveyor belt. Also some people put a big
note on saying "DO NOT DROP". All these are helpful. But double
boxing with 2.5" of packing is essential or insurance will usually not
be granted.
Our Return Shipping Charges
Items vary and shipping charges vary. Our standard
shipping charge for a typical simple item, like a figurine or plate
is around $18, and covers freight (transportation) packing ( double boxing
), packaging (boxes, packing material), shipping insurance, correspondence,
etc. For on-line auctions a fixed price is usually chosen and stated
in advance so everyone knows and can factor it into the bid. For
very large, special, or difficult to ship items the fee may be much greater
and may be decided in consultation with the buyer.
Shipping charges cover many things. Items are often double boxed so mishandling by carriers does not result in breakage. Even then some breakage occurs. Therefore insurance is included up to $100 value because if an item does get broken it must come out of revenues, so that adds somewhat to the cost and varies depending upon the piece. Also the cost can vary depending on the distance. The person doing the packing deserves to get paid and packing materials also cost money. There is also clerical work in tracking packages and orders and checks, etc.
Some people come and pick up items at the shop. They should not be charged a packing fee hidden in the price of the item. In all this it is difficult for me to pick a shipping fee in advance and therefore for this item I picked either the standard $18 or some other price and stated it in the advertisement so buyers could take it into account when buying.
If you have any comments or suggestions please provide
them to me and I will factor them in.
Shipping To Us:
We sometimes receive items that have been broken in shipment.
To avoid breakage careful packing is recommended.
UPS suggests items be carefully packed with at least two inches of packing material between the item and the box on all sides. This box should then be placed inside another box with another two inches of packing material on all sides. This may be extreme in some cases but it may also be inadequate in the case of some very large pieces with fragile arms or wings or branches, etc. Some large fragile pieces need special custom made packages.
If you have any questions use your BACK button to get the telephone number or email address for more details.