Quote Originally Posted by mainlypostcards View Post
I use 1st class for my postcards, but 2nd class for anything that is bigger then a standard letter.

Astral, as far as "seller's standard rate" is concerned: I did put that on my auctions over there for a time, until I read comments on the forums, like the one you just made. I was selling quite a few heavy items at the time and was always using the cheapest postage method, but on a few occasion I got caught out, where I put the amount for 2nd class in, but forgot to change the drop down menu to 2nd and felt obliged to post 1st class at my own expense, as that was what the listing said. At no point did I "abuse" that system; it was just to keep myself out of trouble!

As far as delivery times is concerned; I think it depends which PO you take your stuff to. If I take it to my regular PO, 2nd class means 2nd class and can take up to 3 days; however, if I take it directly to the sorting office (which is actually easier for me), 2nd class generally means next day.
I was beginning to notice a trend along them lines too. I am lucky that I have a small local PO at the back of his newsagency, 2 main post offices and the local sorting office. Occasionally, if I have urgent post and know I will miss the collection at our local office, I will take my items to the sorting office.

However, (not meaning to tempt fate here), the absolutely best service with regards to delivery times is the post that gets sent from my little local newsagent. If taking my orders over there means he gets to stay open, and the service carries on as it does, then I am more than happy to keep doing what I am doing. If a buyer passes comment on my delivery charges and requests a cheaper option, I will not hesitate to comply but inform them that it will take considerably longer than my usual 1st class option.