What is the purpose of a plate charger?

A charger plate, also known as a service plate, is the large, decorative base placed beneath dishes used for dining. 

They can play a stylish and functional role at your table. 

Before the meal begins, charger plates can display a name card or menu.

Colors are as followed: Butter Yellow (Dark Yellow), Plum Purple, Sage (Green), Cobalt Blue, and Rust Brown.

I believe the Salute style/ design in TableTops unlimited came out in 2000.

Each plate (charger) weighs over 2 lbs.

Entire set of plates weigh over 13 lbs. 

Shipping is high, but you got to understand, not only is the weight considered, the oversize box that will be needed, the packaging foam, bubble wrap, as well as the peanuts (popcorn). And most importantly, the insurance that will be added.