RepRap Research Foundation

One of the problems that has plagued me from the beginning when running the store, was the fact that it was hard to determine shipping. For small orders, like PCB’s, nichrome wire, etc. it is possible to use a flat-rate envelope and provide very cheap service. For other items, like 5lb HDPE coils, it was a problem because I would have to use more expensive shipping options. With international orders, its an even bigger deal, because shipping can sometimes be $50-$60 per order if its heavy enough. That means bugging people to send over more money after they’ve already paid. I’m sure you can guess how easy that is. =)

Anywho, I found this awesome module for the OSCommerce shopping cart we use that does automatic USPS rate calculations based on weight. This means that international orders will now have a completely accurate shipping total, as well as domestic orders being accurate as well. This will result in lower rates all around, as I wont have to guesstimate shipping costs, and everything will be up-front on the checkout screen (honesty is the best policy.) This also may lead to cheaper shipping rates for some orders. With the way it was happening before, it was a flat rate, but now for light orders, the rate will be more accurate, and thus lower.

Yay!

Filed under: Foundation News