There's the overhead of picking and packing the products. Consequently,
most companies have a $20 to $30 minimum purchase, or impose an
handling charge for smaller orders. Some don't.

I've no objection to being charged the true cost of picking etc, plus a
fair profit margin. But the cheapest delivery option of the supplier
I've been using is $10, being for sending by courier (often same day).

That's dirt-cheap for same-day service.

Basic ground UPS in the US starts at around $8, way up from what it was just
a few years ago. FedEx Ground is a bit cheaper -- and faster. The Post
Office's Priority Mail starts around $8 for 2-3 day delivery.


Indeed, I could presumably save more if they didn't insist on sending
a copy of the invoice by separate cover.

I've never understood that.