Originally Posted by
alwayslearning
Yes, the envelope is "free"(if you provide your own envelope you may be able ship cheaper), but the people employed to address the envelope, cut the fabric, place it in the envelope, adjust the inventory numbers, generate the invoice, process the payment, etc. are probably not volunteers. The other tools they need to do their jobs are also not free. Nor does the free envelope pay the rent, electricity, and numerous taxes a for which business is responsible.
The fees stated above are the costs of doing business. They are built into the price of the fabric the shop charges you. Having a friend who worked at one of the LARGE fabric distributors, I know that the mark up on fabric is 50-60%. Most fabric purchased from a wholsaler is $4-5 a yard.
I would never buy from a retailer that adds ANYTHING to the cost of a Flat Rate envelope or box. MOST reputable fabric retailers do NOT jack up the cost of mailing.