If you’re buying multiple items from the same seller on eBay — especially from international locations — combining shipping is one of the smartest ways to save money. Instead of paying shipping fees for each individual item, you pay for the total weight or volume of the combined package, often resulting in significant savings.
But many users (especially first-timers) don’t know how to request or offer combined shipping. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to do it — whether you’re a buyer or a seller.
For Buyers: How to Combine Shipping on eBay
Step 1: Make Sure the Seller Offers Combined Shipping
Not every seller supports it. Before placing multiple orders, check the product description for notes like:
- “We offer combined shipping.”
- “Please request an invoice before paying.”
If you’re unsure, message the seller directly.
Step 2: Add Items to Your Cart
Browse the listings and add all the items you intend to purchase to your cart without paying immediately.
Step 3: Request a Total from the Seller
In your cart:
- Select “Request total from seller” at checkout
- This notifies the seller you’d like a combined shipping invoice
Note: This option is available only on the desktop version of eBay, not the app.
Step 4: Wait for the Invoice
The seller will calculate the new shipping cost and send you a revised invoice. Once you receive it, proceed with the payment.
For Sellers: How to Enable and Manage Combined Shipping
If you’re a seller trying to attract more buyers and reduce cart abandonment, enabling combined shipping is a must.
Step 1: Go to Your Shipping Preferences
- Log in to Seller Hub
- Navigate to Account Settings > Shipping Preferences
- Enable “Combine shipping discounts”
Step 2: Set Discount Rules
You can offer:
- Flat shipping discounts (e.g., $2 off for each additional item)
- Calculated shipping discounts (based on total weight or dimensions)
This applies to both domestic and international shipping if configured properly.
Step 3: Respond Promptly to Invoice Requests
Buyers who add items to their cart and request a combined invoice expect quick action. Send an updated invoice within 12–24 hours to keep the sale.
How Much Can You Save?
Here’s a simple example:
- Item A (with individual shipping): $5
- Item B (with individual shipping): $4.50
- Combined Shipping Invoice: $6.80 total
- Savings: $2.70, not counting reduced environmental impact from fewer packages.
For international buyers, combined shipping can save 30–50% on freight costs, especially when consolidated through services like GoNest or eBay Global Shipping Program.
FAQ: Combined Shipping on eBay
Q1: Can I combine shipping if I already paid for the items separately?
A: It depends on the seller. Some may refund the extra shipping fee, but it’s not guaranteed. Always request the invoice before paying.
Q2: Why can’t I find the “Request Total from Seller” button?
A: This option is only available on the desktop website, not on the mobile app or mobile browser versions.
Q3: What if the seller refuses to offer combined shipping?
A: You’re not obligated to complete the purchase. Contact the seller beforehand, or choose listings that clearly state “Combined Shipping Available.”
Q4: Can I combine shipping from different sellers?
A: No. Combined shipping is only available within orders from the same seller.
Q5: What about international shipping? Does it still apply?
A: Yes — and it’s often more important. International shipping fees are higher, so combining into one parcel can lead to major savings. Many sellers use freight forwarders or logistics partners (like GoNest or eBay’s Global Shipping Program) to handle international consolidation.
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Final Thoughts
Knowing how to combine shipping on eBay can improve your buying experience and significantly reduce costs — especially for international shoppers or frequent buyers. The key is communication: check seller policies, request a combined invoice before paying, and stay informed about platform changes.
For sellers, enabling combined shipping isn’t just good service — it’s a strategic advantage in a competitive marketplace.
