Selling on Etsy or eBay can be an exciting way to earn extra income—or even launch a full-blown business. But shipping your products efficiently, affordably, and reliably is just as important as making the sale. If you’re a new seller wondering how to get started without overspending or losing time, this guide will walk you through the shipping essentials, plus a smart way to earn cashback on shipping supplies.

Choose the Right Packaging

Start by selecting packaging that’s durable but doesn’t add unnecessary weight. For jewelry or stickers, padded envelopes or rigid mailers work well. For mugs or fragile items, use sturdy boxes with enough padding to prevent movement. You can order free flat-rate boxes from USPS, which work especially well for heavier items going long distances.

Know Your Carriers

For most sellers, USPS will be the go-to for affordability and coverage. First-Class Mail is ideal for packages under 1 lb, while Priority Mail is better for heavier or time-sensitive items. Use UPS or FedEx for large or high-value packages. Many platforms (like Etsy and eBay) offer built-in carrier discounts when you buy labels directly through your seller dashboard.

Weigh and Measure Accurately

Invest in a digital shipping scale and measuring tape so you can input accurate dimensions and weight. Carriers charge based on size, weight, and destination, so guessing can lead to overcharges or delivery delays. These tools typically pay for themselves within a few weeks.

Print Shipping Labels at Home

Avoid long post office lines by printing your own labels. Etsy and eBay both let you purchase discounted labels that can be printed on standard paper or adhesive label sheets. You can drop prepaid packages into USPS collection boxes or schedule pickups online.

Offer Transparent Shipping Policies

Set clear expectations for customers. List your processing times, shipping speeds, and whether you offer tracking. Providing this information upfront helps avoid disputes and builds trust with buyers. Bonus: both Etsy and eBay factor shipping speed and reliability into your seller performance metrics.

Use Fluz to Save on Supplies

Before you restock on bubble mailers, packing tape, or label printers, buy a discounted digital gift card on Fluz for stores like Staples or Target. It’s an easy way to get instant cashback on supplies you’re already buying.

Download Fluz today.

Track and Communicate

After your item ships, upload the tracking number (if not already auto-filled). This gives your customer peace of mind and protects you if any disputes arise. Some sellers also send a quick follow-up message with the tracking link to add a personal touch.