Postage and Handling

Because of my work and family schedule, I tend to watch TV late at night. This subjects me to limited program options, but unlimited opportunity to see the latest and greatest inventions. We all know the names Snuggie™, Shamwow™, Ronco Food Dehydrator™, and Chia Pet™. Last night, I came across a new one: the “Perfect Brownie” Baking Pans.

The Perfect Brownie commercials claim that the patent pending design of the Perfect Brownie™ Baking Pan bakes each piece separately so they are flaky and crispy on the outside, but rich and gooey on the inside. The non-stick divider is so slippery not even yummy marshmallow treats will stick! Perfect Brownie Website

When watching these commercials, my mind usually follows the same thought process:

• Why didn’t I think of that?
• If I did think of that, Why didn’t I do anything about it?
• I doubt it works as well as they say it does?
• Besides the product, what additional items will they throw in to sweeten the deal?
• How much does it cost?
• How can they sell it at that price?

At the end of the commercial, the announcer states:

“You’ll receive the 11” x 7” (18 brownies) Perfect Brownie™ Baking Pan with removable tray bottom, stand and dividers. Plus, you’ll also get our Gooey & Chewy Recipe Booklet for the perfect brownie recipes as well as other dessert recipes. Plus, you’ll get our 10 Premium Decorating Stencils to make festive brownies for any occasion. Get yours today for only $19.95 plus $8.95 P&H.”

It is the last part of that announcement I have lately focused on. For most of these products the postage and handling fees range from $8.00 – $16.00. In some cases these fees are equal to or more than the price of the product. I have found it amusing that for products which they are offering you two for the price of one, they charge you separate postage and handling fees for each.

Although this type of advertising is legal, I find it to be deceptive. I do not have a problem with a postage or shipping fee, it is the “handling” that I find unclear. I would prefer that they remove the handling fee and just give me a single price for the product and a separate one for shipping (if necessary). Pay this price and get this product. Clean and easy to understand.

What does any of this have to do with Progressive Technology?

At Progressive, we strive to deliver the highest quality service at a fair price. We provide detailed estimates and invoices to make it easy for you to understand our service and fees. We do not and will not include any hidden fees. Legal or not, we do not believe this is how business is conducted or how a trusted relationship is formed.

If you ever have any questions about an estimate or invoice that you receive, please do not hesitate to call us at 682-4990 or Email Us.

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