I wonder if it is included too, along with an out of store markup. I bought my Dix smooth leather cognac in-store and the total price was 330 Euros, or $338.55 USD. The same bag online is $390 USD, not including shipping.I think in part it is. I doubt DHL charges Polene $20 for cross-continental shipping that only takes 3 business days.
When I order on a weekday, I get the bags 3 days later. 5 if the weekend gets in the way. That is ridiculously fast.
I'm sure a portion of that fee is already in the handbag price.
I think if they increase the product prices to give us free shipping, it might backfire, as we sure do love these under $300 and under $400 bags.