It's hard to think of a more objectively stupid method of...

It's hard to think of a more objectively stupid method of getting bulk goods from Australia to China than for hordes of individuals to buy individual parcels and send them off.

There are obviously much more efficient methods of achieving the distribution. Sure, they may be hindered by regulation, but regulations can change.

Stupid, expensive and inefficient systems can remain in place for a while. But they invariably collapse in favour of something cheaper and more efficient. And the collapse is usually sudden. It often happens just after the first movers have raked in their payoff via IPO.