How to figure out delivery charges for your own website

[Helenka]

Hi there
I couldn't find the right category to put this question under - I couldn't find a business related theme on here, which is strange as I remember that there was one.
Anyway I am working on my website and would like to know from those of you who sell via their website how they figured out a fair postage and packaging rate. I have been on the RM website for their rates - but obviously it goes by weight and size and I don't want to over complicate the delivery rate system and am not sure what to charge.
So how did you solve this issue?

[Di Sandland]

I costed all the packaging stuff plus postage into the cost of the item and then made p&p free.

[daisychain]

I send everything special delivery (or the oversea equivalent) as that's the only method that insures jewellery. Most of the p&p costs are in the items, and I charge £2 for orders under £50, and it's free for orders £50 or more.

[caroleallen]

Mine is free postage too.

[Helenka]

Thanks for replying. I had a look at special delivery charges and they are quite dear - up to 500 g - 5.50.
Will look at your websites

[Amy_FJFW]

Studies have suggested that customers are more likely to buy if p&p is free. The best thing to do i reckon (because of high postage charges) is to just add that charge into the price of the items, subsidising it perhaps for higher value items.

[gilliangladwin]

It is difficult but I charge a flat rate which is overpriced for some items and underpriced for others so eventually it will just average out. I also do free delivery if they spend a certain amount as it seems to encourage people to buy just one more piece!