Most U.S. shippers charge a rate based on how much the total of the order is. It seldomly has much to do with what you order. If you order a model or just two or three sets of decals, the shipping is likely to be the same. Then when you hit some "magic" number like $50 or $100, the amount for the shipping changes. Good luck figuring any of that out. You'll have to check the individual shipping policies of the company from which you order.
I've ordered from Mission Models (www.missionmodels.com) a couple of times. They are F A S T!!! I've ordered stuff at 5:45 Pacific Time on Friday night and had it delivered on Monday! Mission Models carries some stuff that no one else does. They are the U.S. importers for some lines like "Artisan Mori". Talk about some beautiful castings! (He does the mantlet J-Hulk used on his E-100!) They are also the company that makes the Etch Mate. Every time I've called, the person answering the phone has been more than helpful. And their shipping hasn't been too bad. They are also the only place I've been able to find Model Kasten tracks in stock.
I order from Model Expo if Florida quite often. (http://www.modelexpo-online.com) Make sure you sign up for their weekly internet newsletter. They are always having some major sales going on, but you have to have the code from the newsletter to get some of the deals.
Good luck,
Bill
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DML M4A2 Red Army
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-- There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness". (Author unknown)