Our shipping and handling charges are based on 17% of the order total and are shipped via UPS ground. We are in the process of adjusting the S&H cost,all monies collected are used to help support the Carolina Region in their service efforts to all of the areas in the region. Orders for items that are in stock are usually shipped within 24 to 48 hours, excluding weekends. Barring exceptions, these orders ship out Monday through Friday at around 4:30 pm PST. If an order is placed before 12 PM EST, the order may ship out that same day.