Free shipping means that the cost of shipping is included in the price of the item.
Which is cheaper?
A $5 item with $10 shipping.
A $10 item with $5 shipping
A $15 item with Free Shipping.
In addition, China Post heavily subsidizes outgoing postal costs.
If you order from Asia, mark Day 30 after purchase on your calendar. If the item has not arrived, contact the seller and ask for the date of shipping, service used and Delivery Confirmation number.
There won't be a DC#, but don't worry about that.
If the seller offers a replacement, ask for an immediate refund. This is a newish scam designed to take you past the deadline for Paypal claims.
If the response is satisfactory, mark Day 40 on your calendar. If the item has not arrived by then, open an Item Not Recieved claim with Paypal.