Why is ebay keeping part of shipping costs?

[416tipper]

The actual shipping costs can change up or down when I print the label from ebay/paypal. If the amount is less ebay is not crediting me the extra amount. Since the buyer paid this shouldn't it be going to me? As I see it ebay is skimming money paid to me. I tried to talk to customer service which was a WASTE of time. The girl who did not appear to understand what I was talking about finally said someone from accounts would get back to and no one did. At this point I won't sell on ebay any more. Anyone have any advise?

[dmil8030]

Are you asking why ebay charges a percentage of the shipping fee?  That began when clever sellers listed an item price of 99 cents but a shipping fee of $120.  The total to the buyer was the same, but the seller in that case only paid fees on less than a buck.  You can see why ebay changed that.

So now, depending on your category you pay the same on shipping and item price.  It is an attempt to keep the whole thing fair to everyone, - and yes, especially to ebay. 🙂