The *bay practice that has become popular lately is to charge outrageous shipping in order to recoup auction listing fees and paypal deposit fees. I understand that when I buy a product at a store part of the price includes overhead costs. But, the total price - including those costs - is clearly marked on the item. I know what I'm paying and what I'm paying for.

Auctions, on the other hand, are a totally different matter. People who want me to pay for their selling fees should establish a reserve price or a "Buy Now" price that covers their expenses. If the final auction sale price isn't to their liking they shouldn't be using an auction to sell their products. It's absolutely absurd for them to expect buyers to cover their expenses in the auction format. Recently, someone was selling glow engines and charging $25 for shipping UPS Ground. It's clear they were trying to recoup there fees with that charge. Like I said, if someone expects a certain minimum price for a product, set a fixed price, or don't use an auction in the first place.

So, pay attention to shipping charges. Auctions are a gamble and a risk for both the buyer and the seller. If a seller wants you to pay for their fees on top of the final bid price, don't buy from them.