Post by PickyChicky on Aug 21, 2015 18:23:12 GMT -6
Perusing Etsy's forums, I see so many discussing issues they're having with calculated shipping not charging what it should be or how confusing they find the whole prospect. So I'm creating this post to help explain how it works so Etsians can see just how easy it really is to set up.
Since this whole thing is new to us, including myself, I don't claim to be an expert, but I have done my own testing to see how things work. I've also scoured Etsy's forums and posed questions to Etsy support to gather accurate information. I just wanted to put all of this in ONE place so Etsians have a comprehensive resource for learning how to set up calculated shipping in a way that works for each of your own unique shops.
[PTabbedContent=Setting Up Calculated Shipping on Etsy][PTab=Before You Begin Setup]The main thing to realize is that there are countless scenarios when it comes to the needs of any one shop. So it's up to each individual shop owner to determine what works best for their shop.
The beauty of the shipping calculator is that it's not one-size fits all. Unlike the shipping calculators on many other marketplace venues, Etsy's version provides the flexibility we need to suit many of those countless scenarios. Even if it doesn't suit a particular scenario, we can mix calculated and flat rate shipping profiles since shipping settings are unique to each listing (again, unlike so many other shipping calculators out there).
If you're wanting to use the shipping calculator, the following discusses things to consider when setting it up for your shop. It is best to sit down and think things out before you begin the setup process (ie, what box sizes you'll use, what boxes you'll use for combined shipping, what to charge for packing materials, do you have large items to account for, etc.). However, as you work to set it up, you may find that further adjustments are needed.
What Shipping Profiles Do You Need?
Depending on what you sell, which shipping courier(s) you use, and the size, weight, and value of your products, you may need one or more shipping profiles. Even if you offer combined shipping or use more than just USPS for shipping, you can still have a mix of calculated and flat rate profiles.
If you use more than just USPS for shipping, then you will definitely need flat rate profiles for the other courier(s) you use because the system only calculates for USPS. For example, you may have items that will ship for less via UPS. However, if you only ship via USPS, then you most likely won't need any flat rate profiles.
If you have products that only ship via Priority, you will need separate shipping profiles for those, whether calculated or flat rate. For example, if you use flat rate Priority, you will need a separate flat rate profile for each box size you use and/or region. If you offer combined shipping, be sure to include a "With Another Item" fee to be added when combined with items set up for calculated shipping.
If you have valuables that you want to charge insurance for, but don't want to apply that charge on any items that don't require it, you'll need two calculated shipping profiles -- one for insured and one for uninsured. Either that or you can just account for the insurance in your item price. If the latter, then you'll only need the one calculated shipping profile.
Preparing to Begin the Setup Process
In order for the shipping calculator to work properly, you need to make sure you have the proper dimensions entered for each listing as well as the various box sizes you have available for shipping. As you will see, you cannot apply a calculated shipping profile to a listing unless its weight and dimensions are entered.
The dimensions provided within the listing details are what the system uses to select the package size(s), whether by itself or in combination with other items. So, if you offer combined shipping, you can't just enter the package size for an item -- you will need the actual product dimensions; plus any cushion you want around it, if any.
To help explain how it works, I'm going to use the different profiles I have set up for my own shop as mere examples. While what I have set up might work for some shops, it certainly won't work for all shops. As previously mentioned, it all just depends on what you sell and how you need to ship them.
To set up shipping profiles and package preferences on Etsy, go to Your Shop > Listings > Shipping Profiles. It will be easier for you to follow along if you have that page opened in a separate tab/window.
So, let's get started...onto the next tab > Setting Up Shipping Profiles[/PTab][PTab=Setting Up Shipping Profiles]First, to be very clear, the shipping profiles shown below are merely examples. Yes, they are based on how my own shop is set up, but that doesn't mean that it will work for your shop. If it does, that's great! If not, just take what you learn here to help plan out the shipping needs of your own shop.
Setting Up Calculated Shipping Profiles
Setting up the shipping profiles is extremely easy to do. The hardest part, which isn't very hard, is determining what profiles are needed for your shop. Here are the shipping profiles I have set up and the purpose of each:
Set up a Separate Media Mail Profile if Necessary
If you sell items that are eligible to ship via Media Mail (MM), then you will need to set up a separate profile just for those items. Of course, the shipping options can include more than just MM in case a customer wishes to pay the extra for faster shipping. You just don't want to include MM on any profile for items that aren't eligible.
Choosing Which Shipping Rates to Charge
Under the Package Preferences section, you will see Shipping Rates and the two options available are (1) Post Office Retail Rates and (2) Etsy Shipping Label Rates. As noted under that section, "If you use a service with discounted or Commercial Base rates, you can select the Etsy Shipping Label rates. Etsy Shipping Labels support First Class Mail up to 16 oz, while retail rates only support it up to 13 oz."
So, this section is pretty self-explanatory. However, if you choose Post Office Retail Rates, keep in mind that the rates quoted will be higher than the commercial rates provided by Etsy or PayPal. So you will want to take this into account when adding a handling fee, if any.
Purpose of the Handling Fee & How It Is Applied
When using calculated shipping, the handling fee is solely for adding the cost of insurance and processing fee you wish to charge, if any. The handling fee is not visible to the customer as a separate charge as it is included in the total cost of shipping. The fee is charged on a per item basis, so if two items are ordered, the handling fee will be charged twice.
Now on to the next tab > Setting Up Package Preferences[/PTab][PTab=Setting Up Package Preferences]Setting Up Package Preferences
In order for calculated shipping to work properly, you need to make sure the system is using the right box sizes for your shipments. Simply using Etsy's common package sizes may not work for your shop. To see what packages sizes they use, click on the blue question mark next to the option. If you don't use any one of those sizes, then you will need to uncheck that box and set up a custom list.
The package size plays a big role in how the system calculates shipping rates for an order, especially if you offer combined shipping. As you go through the setup process, you'll discover the various ways in which it does and may find that you'll have to finagle things to make it work properly, but here are a few ways:
The system for setting up your package preferences is pretty self-explanatory. First, uncheck the box next to Use common Etsy package sizes. Then click the Add a package preference link and enter a name for the entry (ie, the package size or product number/name if using USPS Priority boxes), the package dimensions, and a package fee (see below for more info), if any.
Of course, don't forget to click Save once you have all of the package's information entered. Then simply repeat the process for each package you wish to enter. Just keep in mind that any Priority boxes entered could also be used by the system for items that don't ship Priority.
However, this really won't be an issue as long as the box chosen doesn't bump the shipping up to dimensional weight pricing when it's not needed. No matter which box the system chooses, you're not obligated to use it. You're only concern here is that the customer is being charged the right amount.
Adding Mailers (Envelopes) to Your Package Preferences
TBA
The Purpose of the Package Fee & How It Is Applied
The package fee is what you would use to charge for shipping materials and is charged per package. So, if multiple items are ordered and more than one box is required for shipping, then the customer will be charged the package fee for each box used. If only one box is required, then the package fee will only be charged once. As with the handling fee, the customer will not see this as a separate charge, but as part of the total cost of shipping.
Now on to the next tab > Combined Shipping[/PTab][PTab=Combined Shipping]As previously mentioned, there are countless shipping scenarios, but the shipping calculator has the flexibility to suit many of them. Although, you may have to finagle things to get it to work properly when combined shipping is involved. At first, it might take a bit of time and serious thought to work it all out for your own shop, but once you have it figured out, it will be easier to apply when listing than it was when using flat rate shipping profiles alone.
Setting up your shop for combined shipping is the most complex part of using the shipping calculator. The reason being that you have to make sure the system places your products in the right size box(es), whether shipping a single or multiple items, and returns a more accurate combined shipping rate for customers at checkout.
Combining Calculated and Flat Rate Shipping Profiles
Much unlike shipping options on other marketplaces, we CAN have both calculated and flat rate shipping profiles -- even if we offer combined shipping. When combining shipping, the system will first calculate the shipping on the item(s) with a calculated shipping profile and then add the flat rates from the "With Another Item" column for those items with flat rate profiles.
You do have the option of entering the weight and dimensions for a product in the Listings Manager even if you select a flat rate shipping profile. However, I need to confirm with Etsy support whether or not the dimensions entered will have any effect on the package size chosen when combining shipping, but I do know that entering the weight has no effect.
When combining shipping, the system will know what handling fees to charge based on a listing's shipping profile. For example, if one item uses Calculated - Insured with a 1.60 USD handling fee and another item uses Calculated - Uninsured that has no handling fee, the 1.60 USD fee WILL be added to the shipping charged. Now, if both items use Calculated - Insured, the 1.60 USD handling fee will be charged twice.
Combining Items into Packages Based on Listing Dimensions
When combining shipping, it is something to consider when entering listing dimensions because the system will combine items into packages based on the three dimensions entered for each product. The system will either stack the items or place them side-by-side when choosing the best option from your Package Preferences list.
There are too many scenarios for how the system decides whether to stack items or place them side-by-side. So I will simply use the following three examples to demonstrate how it works, all of which are based on:
Dimensions = LxWxH
Boxes Available in Package Preferences = 7x7x6 and 10x8x6
Example 1
Box Chosen = 7x7x6 (all dimensions fit within the 7x7x6 box whether the items are stacked or placed side-by-side)
Example 2
Box Chosen = 10x8x6 (the longest side won't fit in the 7x7x6 box, but the items can fit in the 10x8x6 box whether stacked or placed side-by-side)
Example 3
Since the total of neither dimension will fit in either box, it is forced to choose two separate boxes:
Box Chosen - Item 1 = 10x8x6 (the longest side won't fit in the 7x7x6 box)
Box Chosen - Item 2 = 7x7x6 (all dimensions fit within the 7x7x76 box)
In conclusion for this section, not entering the proper dimensions could possibly result in customers being overcharged for shipping when ordering more than one item. The system either won't be able to combine more than one item in a box when they'll actually fit or it will combine them in a box that is too big and may even require dimensional weight pricing (see TIP below).
For details about entering the proper dimensions, refer to the next tab > Applying to Listings.
Now on to the next tab > Applying to Listings[/PTab][PTab=Applying to Listings]Firstly, it's important to note that you'll need to make sure you have the proper weight and dimensions entered for each listing in order for this to work. Not only will the system not allow you to select a calculated shipping profile if this information is not entered, but what you enter is of the utmost importance.
If you don't already have this information on a spreadsheet, then it will be a much more tedious task. If you don't, hopefully you at least have that info entered on another marketplace venue that you can copy it from. If you do have that information ready to go, then it will go rather quickly for you.
Either way, the good thing is that you can create your shipping profiles in advance and just apply them as you have time to add or change the necessary info in the listing details -- all while keeping your flat rate profiles in use. You can also apply shipping profiles in bulk, but, again, the weight and dimensions must first be entered in the listing details and using Quick Edit is the fastest way to do that.
However tedious it turns out to be, it will be worth it in the long wrong...trust me! I know all about setting up flat rate shipping and what a PITA that can be; especially when the USPS makes changes and you have to update everything. I did it for years and refused to do it again until I was forced to when first signing up with Etsy. I'm so glad those days are over! With calculated shipping, you enter things once and you're done!
Now, before going into the detailed discussion about dimensions, all that needs to be said about the weight is that it should include all shipping materials. In other words, what it weighs when it's ready to ship.
Considering Combined Shipping When Entering Dimensions
When entering a listing's dimensions, keep in mind which packages you know you'll use to ship that item separately as well as with another like item. You don't want to exceed the dimensions of the box you'll use to combine it with another like item. Otherwise, you run the risk of the system choosing a box that is much too large, particularly if you have larger boxes included in your Package Preferences for your large items (more about that below).
So, you need to enter either the actual item size or, if you want to allow a cushion around the item, enter the item size plus whatever cushion you want around it, making sure you account for both sides of a dimension. For example, if you want an inch of cushion around all sides, you'll need to add TWO inches to all three dimensions.
However, don't forget about the box you'll ship it in with another like item because you don't want to exceed those dimensions. Although, considering that shipping rates don't change based on size for packages that don't exceed 1728 cubic inches (LxWxH), you do have a little leeway. Besides, even if the system chooses the wrong box (as shown on the order receipt), you're not obligated to use that box. You can always let your customer know in your 'thank you' email what size box will actually be used.
To demonstrate what I'm trying to explain, I'll use the results of the testing I did using two of my ornaments. Before realizing how the dimensions would effect combined shipping rates, I was entering the package size for listings rather than the item size plus any cushion. After being made aware, I did some testing and was shocked!
Individually, each ornament ships in a 7x7x6 box, which is what I had their dimensions set to. The correct charge for shipping the two in a 10x8x6 box is 9.97 USD for Priority Mail to Zone 8. However, when I added both to my cart, the system was quoting over 57.00 USD!
Come to find out, the system was choosing the largest box (22x14x12) in my Package Preferences because adding the width and height came to 14x12. Since I didn't have any other box listed with a height of 12in or width of 14in, it chose the 22x14x12 box that requires dimensional weight pricing (see the TIP at the bottom of the Combined Shipping tab for more info).
So, in order to get the two ornaments to fit into the right size box, I had to enter each ornament's actual size. Although, I couldn't enter more than 3in for the height to allow for any cushion because the combined height of the two ornaments cannot exceed 6in (the height of the 7x7x6 and 10x8x6 boxes).
For example, the original box of one ornament measures 5.5x5x2 and the other 5x3.5x2.5. If I were to add two inches to each side for cushion, the dimensions would be 7.5x7x4 and 7x5.5x4.5. Added together, the stacked height would be 8.5in and the side-by-side dimension would be 12.5in -- neither of which would fit in the 10x8x6 box. Nor do I have any boxes that has a width of more than 12in other than the large 22x14x12 box.
So, as you can see, in order to force the system to choose the 10x8x6 box, the height of each ornament needs to be set at no more than 3in. Although, in this case, the system would probably stack the two items, meaning that the total length and width it will be looking at is 5.5x5 (the longest measurements between the two).
As a result, the system would still most likely choose the 7x7x6 box. That's okay, though, because it will still quote the correct shipping rate based on the package weight rather than the dimensional weight of the largest box. So, if it does choose the 7x7x6 box instead of the 10x8x6 box, I can simply let my customer know in my 'thank you' email.
So, as you can see, there ARE ways to manipulate the system to ensure that it's charging more accurate shipping. Of course, trying to account for additional items when you carry products of varying sizes and weights is tricky, but you can at least do it for like items that people are more likely to buy together (ie, ornaments, jewelry, cards, etc.).
That's why I said earlier that it's important to familiarize yourself with what ships in what, whether individually or with another like item. Having a stock of the most common packaging you use really does help. Of course, each shop's requirements are unique, so you might do some testing as I did with my ornaments to see how to finagle things.
Anywho, if you have questions, feel free to post them below. Although, posting to the forums will require member registration, which is free. Once registered, you will see all of the different boards available to members (not all are visible to the general public) -- lots of good info to be found.
[/PTab][PTab=Resources]Here are a few resources you may need to help while setting up shipping:
USPS Zone Chart Generator || postcalc.usps.gov/Zonecharts/
USPS Domestic Mail Manual - DMM 223 - Prices and Eligibility, Section 1.7 ||
pe.usps.com/text/dmm300/223.htm#1410549
USPS Guides PDF Downloads: Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), Quick Service Guides (QSG), or International Mail Manual (IMM) || pe.usps.gov/DMMdownload.asp
U-PIC's Site (for cheaper insurance): www.u-pic.com
U-PIC's Complete Price List: delta.u-pic.com/Order/OnlineRates.aspx[/PTab][/PTabbedContent]
Since this whole thing is new to us, including myself, I don't claim to be an expert, but I have done my own testing to see how things work. I've also scoured Etsy's forums and posed questions to Etsy support to gather accurate information. I just wanted to put all of this in ONE place so Etsians have a comprehensive resource for learning how to set up calculated shipping in a way that works for each of your own unique shops.
| NOTE: | Since I am using a special set up for this post (the tabbed system), I cannot use the dollar sign because it is translated to a BB Code that plugs in the name of the tabbed document. So any dollar amount will not have one, but is merely followed by "USD". |
[PTabbedContent=Setting Up Calculated Shipping on Etsy][PTab=Before You Begin Setup]The main thing to realize is that there are countless scenarios when it comes to the needs of any one shop. So it's up to each individual shop owner to determine what works best for their shop.
The beauty of the shipping calculator is that it's not one-size fits all. Unlike the shipping calculators on many other marketplace venues, Etsy's version provides the flexibility we need to suit many of those countless scenarios. Even if it doesn't suit a particular scenario, we can mix calculated and flat rate shipping profiles since shipping settings are unique to each listing (again, unlike so many other shipping calculators out there).
If you're wanting to use the shipping calculator, the following discusses things to consider when setting it up for your shop. It is best to sit down and think things out before you begin the setup process (ie, what box sizes you'll use, what boxes you'll use for combined shipping, what to charge for packing materials, do you have large items to account for, etc.). However, as you work to set it up, you may find that further adjustments are needed.
What Shipping Profiles Do You Need?
Depending on what you sell, which shipping courier(s) you use, and the size, weight, and value of your products, you may need one or more shipping profiles. Even if you offer combined shipping or use more than just USPS for shipping, you can still have a mix of calculated and flat rate profiles.
If you use more than just USPS for shipping, then you will definitely need flat rate profiles for the other courier(s) you use because the system only calculates for USPS. For example, you may have items that will ship for less via UPS. However, if you only ship via USPS, then you most likely won't need any flat rate profiles.
If you have products that only ship via Priority, you will need separate shipping profiles for those, whether calculated or flat rate. For example, if you use flat rate Priority, you will need a separate flat rate profile for each box size you use and/or region. If you offer combined shipping, be sure to include a "With Another Item" fee to be added when combined with items set up for calculated shipping.
If you have valuables that you want to charge insurance for, but don't want to apply that charge on any items that don't require it, you'll need two calculated shipping profiles -- one for insured and one for uninsured. Either that or you can just account for the insurance in your item price. If the latter, then you'll only need the one calculated shipping profile.
| TIP | You can purchase insurance separately from USPS for much less via U-PIC for both domestic and international shipments valued up to 2,000.00 USD. Their current per USPS package fees are 1.00 USD for domestic shipments and 1.60 USD for international shipments (both with tracking). You can purchase insurance on U-PIC's site even if you only have one package to insure. CLICK HERE for the complete price list. |
Preparing to Begin the Setup Process
In order for the shipping calculator to work properly, you need to make sure you have the proper dimensions entered for each listing as well as the various box sizes you have available for shipping. As you will see, you cannot apply a calculated shipping profile to a listing unless its weight and dimensions are entered.
The dimensions provided within the listing details are what the system uses to select the package size(s), whether by itself or in combination with other items. So, if you offer combined shipping, you can't just enter the package size for an item -- you will need the actual product dimensions; plus any cushion you want around it, if any.
To help explain how it works, I'm going to use the different profiles I have set up for my own shop as mere examples. While what I have set up might work for some shops, it certainly won't work for all shops. As previously mentioned, it all just depends on what you sell and how you need to ship them.
To set up shipping profiles and package preferences on Etsy, go to Your Shop > Listings > Shipping Profiles. It will be easier for you to follow along if you have that page opened in a separate tab/window.
So, let's get started...onto the next tab > Setting Up Shipping Profiles[/PTab][PTab=Setting Up Shipping Profiles]First, to be very clear, the shipping profiles shown below are merely examples. Yes, they are based on how my own shop is set up, but that doesn't mean that it will work for your shop. If it does, that's great! If not, just take what you learn here to help plan out the shipping needs of your own shop.
Setting Up Calculated Shipping Profiles
Setting up the shipping profiles is extremely easy to do. The hardest part, which isn't very hard, is determining what profiles are needed for your shop. Here are the shipping profiles I have set up and the purpose of each:
- Calculated - Uninsured || This can be applied to anything that does not require insurance, no matter the weight, USPS shipping method (except Media Mail), or box size. This is, of course, the easiest to set up because it doesn't need any special settings to make it work properly. All you have to do is enter the profile name, your zip code (see "TIP" below), processing time, the countries you ship to, and the domestic and international shipping methods you wish to offer (ie, First-Class, Priority, etc.).
- Calculated - Insured || For items needing insurance coverage up to 2,000 USD no matter the weight, shipping method (except Media Mail), or box size. This is also easy to set up because the only thing you need to do in addition to what you did for Calculated - Uninsured is add the handling fee to cover the cost of insurance (1.60 USD in this case).
- Three Flat-Rate Profiles || These still exist only for my clothing items and are based on weight. I simply haven't had the chance to figure up their package dimensions, yet. They're all hanging in a closet, so I'd have to package them up one-by-one to get that info. I have the weight of each package, but not the dimensions.
| TIP | If your items are shipped from a different location than your own, be sure to enter the zip code where the product is shipped from to ensure the cost is properly calculated. You can set up different shipping profiles for each zip code based on various shipping methods needed. |
Set up a Separate Media Mail Profile if Necessary
If you sell items that are eligible to ship via Media Mail (MM), then you will need to set up a separate profile just for those items. Of course, the shipping options can include more than just MM in case a customer wishes to pay the extra for faster shipping. You just don't want to include MM on any profile for items that aren't eligible.
Choosing Which Shipping Rates to Charge
Under the Package Preferences section, you will see Shipping Rates and the two options available are (1) Post Office Retail Rates and (2) Etsy Shipping Label Rates. As noted under that section, "If you use a service with discounted or Commercial Base rates, you can select the Etsy Shipping Label rates. Etsy Shipping Labels support First Class Mail up to 16 oz, while retail rates only support it up to 13 oz."
So, this section is pretty self-explanatory. However, if you choose Post Office Retail Rates, keep in mind that the rates quoted will be higher than the commercial rates provided by Etsy or PayPal. So you will want to take this into account when adding a handling fee, if any.
Purpose of the Handling Fee & How It Is Applied
When using calculated shipping, the handling fee is solely for adding the cost of insurance and processing fee you wish to charge, if any. The handling fee is not visible to the customer as a separate charge as it is included in the total cost of shipping. The fee is charged on a per item basis, so if two items are ordered, the handling fee will be charged twice.
Now on to the next tab > Setting Up Package Preferences[/PTab][PTab=Setting Up Package Preferences]Setting Up Package Preferences
In order for calculated shipping to work properly, you need to make sure the system is using the right box sizes for your shipments. Simply using Etsy's common package sizes may not work for your shop. To see what packages sizes they use, click on the blue question mark next to the option. If you don't use any one of those sizes, then you will need to uncheck that box and set up a custom list.
| NOTE | What you enter in the listing details should NOT be the actual package size unless it is an item that ships separately (details are provided on the Applying to Listings tab). This is especially true if you offer combined shipping, which we'll discuss in detail on the Combined Shipping tab. |
The package size plays a big role in how the system calculates shipping rates for an order, especially if you offer combined shipping. As you go through the setup process, you'll discover the various ways in which it does and may find that you'll have to finagle things to make it work properly, but here are a few ways:
- For large packages exceeding 1728 cubic inches (LxWxH), shipping rates are based on the dimensional weight of a package (LxWxH / 194), no matter its actual weight. So, if you have larger boxes that require dimensional weight pricing included in your list of package preferences (like I do for the porcelain dolls and other items I sell), you certainly don't want the system erroneously placing items in those boxes.
- When calculating combined shipping, the package size(s) the system chooses is important to ensuring that your customer is charged the correct rate.
- If an order is large enough to require multiple boxes, it is important for the system to know the box sizes you have available to ship items in, particularly the maximum sized box. If you don't specify what you have, you may find yourself charging your customer either too much or too little for shipping.
The system for setting up your package preferences is pretty self-explanatory. First, uncheck the box next to Use common Etsy package sizes. Then click the Add a package preference link and enter a name for the entry (ie, the package size or product number/name if using USPS Priority boxes), the package dimensions, and a package fee (see below for more info), if any.
Of course, don't forget to click Save once you have all of the package's information entered. Then simply repeat the process for each package you wish to enter. Just keep in mind that any Priority boxes entered could also be used by the system for items that don't ship Priority.
However, this really won't be an issue as long as the box chosen doesn't bump the shipping up to dimensional weight pricing when it's not needed. No matter which box the system chooses, you're not obligated to use it. You're only concern here is that the customer is being charged the right amount.
Adding Mailers (Envelopes) to Your Package Preferences
TBA
The Purpose of the Package Fee & How It Is Applied
The package fee is what you would use to charge for shipping materials and is charged per package. So, if multiple items are ordered and more than one box is required for shipping, then the customer will be charged the package fee for each box used. If only one box is required, then the package fee will only be charged once. As with the handling fee, the customer will not see this as a separate charge, but as part of the total cost of shipping.
Now on to the next tab > Combined Shipping[/PTab][PTab=Combined Shipping]As previously mentioned, there are countless shipping scenarios, but the shipping calculator has the flexibility to suit many of them. Although, you may have to finagle things to get it to work properly when combined shipping is involved. At first, it might take a bit of time and serious thought to work it all out for your own shop, but once you have it figured out, it will be easier to apply when listing than it was when using flat rate shipping profiles alone.
Setting up your shop for combined shipping is the most complex part of using the shipping calculator. The reason being that you have to make sure the system places your products in the right size box(es), whether shipping a single or multiple items, and returns a more accurate combined shipping rate for customers at checkout.
Combining Calculated and Flat Rate Shipping Profiles
Much unlike shipping options on other marketplaces, we CAN have both calculated and flat rate shipping profiles -- even if we offer combined shipping. When combining shipping, the system will first calculate the shipping on the item(s) with a calculated shipping profile and then add the flat rates from the "With Another Item" column for those items with flat rate profiles.
You do have the option of entering the weight and dimensions for a product in the Listings Manager even if you select a flat rate shipping profile. However, I need to confirm with Etsy support whether or not the dimensions entered will have any effect on the package size chosen when combining shipping, but I do know that entering the weight has no effect.
When combining shipping, the system will know what handling fees to charge based on a listing's shipping profile. For example, if one item uses Calculated - Insured with a 1.60 USD handling fee and another item uses Calculated - Uninsured that has no handling fee, the 1.60 USD fee WILL be added to the shipping charged. Now, if both items use Calculated - Insured, the 1.60 USD handling fee will be charged twice.
Combining Items into Packages Based on Listing Dimensions
When combining shipping, it is something to consider when entering listing dimensions because the system will combine items into packages based on the three dimensions entered for each product. The system will either stack the items or place them side-by-side when choosing the best option from your Package Preferences list.
There are too many scenarios for how the system decides whether to stack items or place them side-by-side. So I will simply use the following three examples to demonstrate how it works, all of which are based on:
Dimensions = LxWxH
Boxes Available in Package Preferences = 7x7x6 and 10x8x6
Example 1
| Dimensions | Item Length | Item Width | Item Height | |||
| Item 1 | 5x4x3 | 5 | 4 | 3 | ||
| Item 2 | 6x3x2 | 6 | 3 | 2 | ||
| Totals | 6 | 7 | 5 |
Box Chosen = 7x7x6 (all dimensions fit within the 7x7x6 box whether the items are stacked or placed side-by-side)
Example 2
| Dimensions | Item Length | Item Width | Item Height | |||
| Item 1 | 8x4x3 | 8 | 4 | 3 | ||
| Item 2 | 6x3x2 | 6 | 3 | 2 | ||
| Totals | 8 | 7 | 5 |
Box Chosen = 10x8x6 (the longest side won't fit in the 7x7x6 box, but the items can fit in the 10x8x6 box whether stacked or placed side-by-side)
Example 3
| Dimensions | Item Length | Item Width | Item Height | |||
| Item 1 | 8x7x3 | 8 | 7 | 3 | ||
| Item 2 | 6x5x4 | 6 | 5 | 4 | ||
| Totals | 14 | 12 | 7 |
Since the total of neither dimension will fit in either box, it is forced to choose two separate boxes:
Box Chosen - Item 1 = 10x8x6 (the longest side won't fit in the 7x7x6 box)
Box Chosen - Item 2 = 7x7x6 (all dimensions fit within the 7x7x76 box)
In conclusion for this section, not entering the proper dimensions could possibly result in customers being overcharged for shipping when ordering more than one item. The system either won't be able to combine more than one item in a box when they'll actually fit or it will combine them in a box that is too big and may even require dimensional weight pricing (see TIP below).
For details about entering the proper dimensions, refer to the next tab > Applying to Listings.
| TIP | If a package's size is greater than or equal to 1728 cubic inches (LxWxH), dimensional weight pricing applies. To determine a package's dimensional weight, divide LxWxH by 194. No matter how light an item truly is, the USPS will use the dimensional weight to calculate shipping costs. Click to see the USPS Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) 223 - Prices and Eligibility - Section 1.7 for more info. |
Now on to the next tab > Applying to Listings[/PTab][PTab=Applying to Listings]Firstly, it's important to note that you'll need to make sure you have the proper weight and dimensions entered for each listing in order for this to work. Not only will the system not allow you to select a calculated shipping profile if this information is not entered, but what you enter is of the utmost importance.
If you don't already have this information on a spreadsheet, then it will be a much more tedious task. If you don't, hopefully you at least have that info entered on another marketplace venue that you can copy it from. If you do have that information ready to go, then it will go rather quickly for you.
Either way, the good thing is that you can create your shipping profiles in advance and just apply them as you have time to add or change the necessary info in the listing details -- all while keeping your flat rate profiles in use. You can also apply shipping profiles in bulk, but, again, the weight and dimensions must first be entered in the listing details and using Quick Edit is the fastest way to do that.
However tedious it turns out to be, it will be worth it in the long wrong...trust me! I know all about setting up flat rate shipping and what a PITA that can be; especially when the USPS makes changes and you have to update everything. I did it for years and refused to do it again until I was forced to when first signing up with Etsy. I'm so glad those days are over! With calculated shipping, you enter things once and you're done!
Now, before going into the detailed discussion about dimensions, all that needs to be said about the weight is that it should include all shipping materials. In other words, what it weighs when it's ready to ship.
Considering Combined Shipping When Entering Dimensions
When entering a listing's dimensions, keep in mind which packages you know you'll use to ship that item separately as well as with another like item. You don't want to exceed the dimensions of the box you'll use to combine it with another like item. Otherwise, you run the risk of the system choosing a box that is much too large, particularly if you have larger boxes included in your Package Preferences for your large items (more about that below).
So, you need to enter either the actual item size or, if you want to allow a cushion around the item, enter the item size plus whatever cushion you want around it, making sure you account for both sides of a dimension. For example, if you want an inch of cushion around all sides, you'll need to add TWO inches to all three dimensions.
However, don't forget about the box you'll ship it in with another like item because you don't want to exceed those dimensions. Although, considering that shipping rates don't change based on size for packages that don't exceed 1728 cubic inches (LxWxH), you do have a little leeway. Besides, even if the system chooses the wrong box (as shown on the order receipt), you're not obligated to use that box. You can always let your customer know in your 'thank you' email what size box will actually be used.
To demonstrate what I'm trying to explain, I'll use the results of the testing I did using two of my ornaments. Before realizing how the dimensions would effect combined shipping rates, I was entering the package size for listings rather than the item size plus any cushion. After being made aware, I did some testing and was shocked!
Individually, each ornament ships in a 7x7x6 box, which is what I had their dimensions set to. The correct charge for shipping the two in a 10x8x6 box is 9.97 USD for Priority Mail to Zone 8. However, when I added both to my cart, the system was quoting over 57.00 USD!
Come to find out, the system was choosing the largest box (22x14x12) in my Package Preferences because adding the width and height came to 14x12. Since I didn't have any other box listed with a height of 12in or width of 14in, it chose the 22x14x12 box that requires dimensional weight pricing (see the TIP at the bottom of the Combined Shipping tab for more info).
So, in order to get the two ornaments to fit into the right size box, I had to enter each ornament's actual size. Although, I couldn't enter more than 3in for the height to allow for any cushion because the combined height of the two ornaments cannot exceed 6in (the height of the 7x7x6 and 10x8x6 boxes).
For example, the original box of one ornament measures 5.5x5x2 and the other 5x3.5x2.5. If I were to add two inches to each side for cushion, the dimensions would be 7.5x7x4 and 7x5.5x4.5. Added together, the stacked height would be 8.5in and the side-by-side dimension would be 12.5in -- neither of which would fit in the 10x8x6 box. Nor do I have any boxes that has a width of more than 12in other than the large 22x14x12 box.
So, as you can see, in order to force the system to choose the 10x8x6 box, the height of each ornament needs to be set at no more than 3in. Although, in this case, the system would probably stack the two items, meaning that the total length and width it will be looking at is 5.5x5 (the longest measurements between the two).
As a result, the system would still most likely choose the 7x7x6 box. That's okay, though, because it will still quote the correct shipping rate based on the package weight rather than the dimensional weight of the largest box. So, if it does choose the 7x7x6 box instead of the 10x8x6 box, I can simply let my customer know in my 'thank you' email.
So, as you can see, there ARE ways to manipulate the system to ensure that it's charging more accurate shipping. Of course, trying to account for additional items when you carry products of varying sizes and weights is tricky, but you can at least do it for like items that people are more likely to buy together (ie, ornaments, jewelry, cards, etc.).
That's why I said earlier that it's important to familiarize yourself with what ships in what, whether individually or with another like item. Having a stock of the most common packaging you use really does help. Of course, each shop's requirements are unique, so you might do some testing as I did with my ornaments to see how to finagle things.
Anywho, if you have questions, feel free to post them below. Although, posting to the forums will require member registration, which is free. Once registered, you will see all of the different boards available to members (not all are visible to the general public) -- lots of good info to be found.
[/PTab][PTab=Resources]Here are a few resources you may need to help while setting up shipping:USPS Zone Chart Generator || postcalc.usps.gov/Zonecharts/
USPS Domestic Mail Manual - DMM 223 - Prices and Eligibility, Section 1.7 ||
pe.usps.com/text/dmm300/223.htm#1410549
USPS Guides PDF Downloads: Domestic Mail Manual (DMM), Quick Service Guides (QSG), or International Mail Manual (IMM) || pe.usps.gov/DMMdownload.asp
U-PIC's Site (for cheaper insurance): www.u-pic.com
U-PIC's Complete Price List: delta.u-pic.com/Order/OnlineRates.aspx[/PTab][/PTabbedContent]
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I sure didn't expect it to morph into what it did, but apparently peeps needed it. Even I learned a few things along the way that I'll have to consider implementing, but it's not urgent since I rarely get multiple item orders.