This was a very informative article, but like most of sellers I disagree with the packaging suggestions. I use the free Priority Mail boxes when I can but the sizes are limited and some buyers don't want to pay the extra postage for Priority Mail. The cost for new boxes and cushioning material would kill my profits and put me out of business. After all, we already pay eBay fees, PayPal fees and noy Auctivia fees! I'm forced to dumpster dive and use clean, used boxes and packaging material. The only new stuff I use is tape and shipping labels. I print small adhesive labels and put them on the boxes stating "Going Green - recycled boxes and packaging material used for this shipment". I've never had a complaint and have a 4.9 rating and 100% feedback. Also, I usually don't give out free gifts only the product as listed and quality service.