Yes, the seller cannot control what the shipping company (USPS, UPS, etc.) does, but they choose the shipping method. The buyer, on the other hand has no control and certainly no blame for what happens. Thus, it makes sense for it to be up to the seller to choose a company that will get the job done. In small sales like chips, of course, the seller has no real choice, but on larger items, they probably do.

So, what is the scam I referred to? What stops a seller shifting the risk of loss to the buyer from never shipping anything, claiming they did, and saying, "Sorry, it's the shipping company's fault. I am not responsible for the loss, as we agreed." If the risk remains on the seller, however, this risk is eliminated. Of course, a buyer can claim it never arrived, but that can be handled by confirmation of receipt. Once again, not always practical for smaller items, but it is available.

Just my thoughts.

Michael Siskin