Alternative to Royal Mail for Smaller Packages?

[simon.r]

I've just posted a paperback book (within the UK) in a Jiffy bag and it cost me £2.80, 2nd class and not signed for. I've also been stung a couple of times on eBay recently, where I've seriously underestimated postage costs. My fault, I know, but it seems as if small parcel prices have gone up dramatically over the last few years.

Is there a realistic alternative to Royal Mail for domestic customers who post the occasional parcel?

 

[simon.r]

Given that you could send the book to the next town or to the other end of the country for that price, it doesn't seem that expensive to me. When I sell things using ebay I weigh the stuff first and look up the postage on the RM site. No one has complained about postage costs so far.

You're right, it's not that much, but I can get the same book delivered to me from a trade eBay seller for £2.19. That's for the book and postage.

Can I use whichever courier the trader uses?

 

[simon.r]

This one, not that's it relevant: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/321405817259

 

[vernon]

You're right, it's not that much, but I can get the same book delivered to me from a trade eBay seller for £2.19. That's for the book and postage.

Can I use whichever courier the trader uses?

Yes when you are shifting sufficient stock to make it worth a courier's while to negotiate a discount.

 

[Fnaar]

I've never had any complaints about my package

 

[smokeysmoo]

I've never had any complaints about my package

But what about it's contents?

 

[Fnaar]

But what about it's contents?

Yes, those have frequently disappointed.

 

[Archie_tect]

Did you advise your buyer that it was cheaper elsewhere...

 

[simon.r]

Did you advise your buyer that it was cheaper elsewhere...

It wasn't a sale, just posting a book to a friend who I thought would like it. I should have bought it on eBay and got it posted to them

 

[Archie_tect]

My mum wanted a video of ice dancing... [don't ask] , it cost 50p for the video and £4.99 P&P.

 

[postman]

This week i bought a used item from Play.com. M*A*S*H the book including postage £2.How do they make a profit ?