What method does the table rates shipping use to calculate costs?

Table rates shipping in Magento utilizes a system of predefined rates, which are specifically set up within a table based on various factors such as weight, destination, and order total. This approach allows for a tailored shipping cost that can vary according to different parameters. For instance, a store owner can define shipping charges that may change depending on a combination of the order weight range, the destination zip codes, and the total value of the order.

Given this setup, option C is correct because it reflects exactly how table rates work—they rely on a predefined table that allows merchants to provide customized shipping solutions based on the specific criteria they choose. The flexibility of this method enables businesses to align shipping costs with their pricing strategies and operational needs effectively.

The other options do not accurately describe the mechanics of table rates shipping. Live rate lookups based on product weight imply real-time pricing tied to carrier rates rather than a set table. Flat rates based on order total suggest a single price for all orders over a certain amount without the granularity provided by table rates. Lastly, dynamic rates based solely on delivery locations oversimplify the approach, as they do not consider the additional variables that table rates encompass, such as product weight and total order price.