ShipStation API offers two endpoints for rate quotes: the Estimate a Rate endpoint and the Rates endpoint. When using either endpoint, the shipment information is provided in the request, and a rate is returned. Rates are determined by the carrier.
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The Estimate a Rate endpoint will provide an estimated rate from the carrier that does not include additional charges like fuel surcharges, customs fees, or other carrier-imposed fees.
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The Rates endpoint requires more information than the estimate endpoint, but provides a more accurate rate quote from the carrier.
If the shipment details are not accurate or complete, the carrier reserves the right to adjust the rate charged to your monthly invoice or to charge an adjustment fee for pay-on-create labels.
The following factors can change a shipment’s rate from what ShipStation API displayed at the time of label purchase:
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Residential vs. commercial address determination
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Inaccurate weight or dimensions for the shipment
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Dimensional weight applies, but dimensions are not included
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Incorrect drop-off type
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Incomplete information for the origin address
You can browse and view rates for Shipstation API Carriers in the dashboard.
Important Information to view Shipstation API Carriers Rates in the dashboard
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Requirement: You must have ShipStation API Carriers activated to browse rates in the dashboard.
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You cannot buy a label via the View rates popup in the Dashboard. It allows you to browse rates only.
See how to do more with the Shipstation API in our create a shipment article.
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Actual rates may differ from the estimate when you buy the label. The rates provided in the browser tool are estimates only and are not guaranteed.
Follow these steps to View Rates in the ShipStation API dashboard.
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Click the View rates button by ShipStation API Carriers on the Carriers page.
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Enter the details for your Ship From and Ship To addresses, and the package Shipping Information (Dimensions, Weight), then click View rates.
A list of carriers and their rate estimates will appear on the side.
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Optional: Sort the rate estimates by Lowest Price, Highest Price, Alphabetical Order, or Reverse Alphabetical Order.
