We have implemented a flat rate shipping cost system, based on the order total. Please keep in mind that this chart is for the United States only, International shipping rates are based on actual shipping costs via an International shipper other than USPS.
$0.01 to $100.00 = $10.00 shipping
$100.01 to $200.00 = $15.00 shipping
$200.01 and up = $20.00 shipping
Our primary means of shipping parts will be USPS Priority Mail, its affordable and it comes with a tracking number. There are hidden costs that most folks never think about like packing peanuts (have you ever ordered a huge bag of packing peanuts? the peanuts are cheap, but the shipping to get them to you is like 4 times the cost of the peanuts themselves!), plastic baggies to put the parts in (and heat seal), label costs, etc. Plus, please keep in mind our goal was to create as much automated work as possible (using automated processes within the website to our advantage). Again, there are 3 of us doing all this work, so the less hands on we can manage, the better. (I really don't want to bore you with the gory details, but everything has a cost associated with it). The shipping is not outrageous.
To be honest, a $10.00 shipping charge standing between your train working and being broken is not that big of an expense!
But, as always, someone will disagree, which is okay too. I've been in this business long enough to know that no one will EVER satisfy everyone no matter hard they try. That's just the gory reality of life (and business too for that matter)!
Thank You,
Mike Reagan
MTH Parts & Sales LLC
