We ship our rods in priority tubes, so that is what the post office charges by length and weight. We do not add any hidden handling fees. I know it stinks since they raised the prices. Especially to the east or west cost states. You used to be able to ship rods priority for 10-20 bucks. Not much I can do about that ....I have a hard time finding boxes long enough for rods to ship parcel instead, but if I manage to find one I will update the listing. Thanks for your interest.