Etsy tools · Updated October 2026
Should you offer free shipping on Etsy?
Free shipping doesn't have to cost you anything. You just move the postage into the price.
The same order, two ways
$28 + $6 shipping
Buyer pays$34.00
Listing fee−$0.20
Transaction 6.5%−$2.21
Processing 3% + $0.25−$1.27
Platform fees−$3.68
Your costs−$23.70
You keep$6.62 (19.5%)
$34, free shipping
Buyer pays$34.00
Listing fee−$0.20
Transaction 6.5%−$2.21
Processing 3% + $0.25−$1.27
Platform fees−$3.68
Your costs−$23.70
You keep$6.62 (19.5%)
You keep exactly the same either way: $6.62. Etsy charges its fees on the total the buyer pays, shipping included, so moving postage into the price changes nothing in fees.
Why sellers choose free shipping
- Shoppers dislike surprise shipping costs at checkout, and a single price feels simpler.
- Etsy has favoured US listings that offer free shipping, especially on orders of $35 or more, since it launched its free shipping push in 2019.
When it's harder
- Heavy items: a $15 postage cost hidden in the price can make the item look expensive next to competitors.
- International orders: you'll usually still charge shipping outside your own country.
