Those shipping costs are calculated from UPS. When is the last time You shipped something with UPS? Did you even notice the increase in price due to the higher fuel surcharge now? Dont go by the weight of the ball either. Shipping is based on total weight after packed in the box. I have no control over shipping price. Go figure it out for yourself and come back and tell me shipping price is too high. As far as price of the ball, I sell all these for a friend for what he wants to get for them. You want to make an offer for one, tell me and Ill see if he'll take less.