It seems like it should be that way, but it isn't. If it was, eBay would be enforcing two contradictory policies. Allowing unreasonable and inflated S&H charges would contradict the fee avoidance policy (hiding the cost of the product in grossly inflated S&H charges).

A complaint to eBay of "This guy gouged me on shipping and handling" will probably get ignored; but a complaint of "This guy is avoiding paying you the fee money he owes you" will get their attention. (I always try to translate the problem into terms they can understand, like $$$.)

WMD