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Originally Posted by raciviusdawn
shipping costs do include packaging costs don't they?
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It really depends on the order, and the company that is being ordered from. Most orders can be fulfilled with a cardboard box and some wrapping paper. Ordered in quantity, this amounts to something like 9 cents to a dollar or two. If it is included, then the amount is usually negligable. The bulk of the shipping charge is for the transport company.
Usually, if packaging is excessive or unusual then there is an additional "box fee" assessed for the material. Going back to aquarium shops, they usually have a base fee or box fee to account for the special containers, chemicals, oxygen, or cool/hot packs that must be used to keep livestock alive during shipping. These costs are usually passed on to the customer.