Adjustments are charges or credits from the shipping carrier that are billed or credited to your ShipStation API account balance. Adjustments are typically made by carriers to ensure fair billing and accurate delivery. They can result in increased costs or delays in the shipping process. Adjustments are typically caused by factors like package weight, dimensions, delivery location, or service level.
There are several reasons you might receive an adjustment, including (but not limited to):
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A package that is an unconventional shape, like a cylinder or tube
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Package dimensions exceed the service or carrier maximum
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Saturday deliveries
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The package is packed in something other than cardboard, such as wrapped in plastic or encased in metal
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The recipient address is incorrect or incomplete
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The label was attached incorrectly, so the barcode could not be scanned
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Residential or out-of-area deliveries
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Fuel surcharges or Peak surcharges
USPS automates much of its adjustment process with its Automatic Package Verification (APV) System. Other carriers use similar methods to ensure compliance with their shipment regulations.
ShipStation API applies an Adjustment Processing Fee (APF) when discrepancies are identified by a carrier after label creation for the package. These discrepancies lead to additional administrative and other costs for ShipStation API. The Adjustment Processing Fee helps to partially cover these costs so that we can continue to offer you competitive rates and reliable service.
Why would this adjustment happen?
Carrier adjustments are charges billed by the carrier after the parcel has shipped IF the carrier finds a difference in the rate that was initially paid versus what should have been charged. The APF is a processing fee in addition to the carrier surcharge for the difference in parcel dimensions or weight.
Some examples of scenarios that would incur an Adjustment Processing Fee include:
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Incorrect weight or dimensions: The actual weight (or dimensions) of a package exceeds what was input during the label creation process.
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Incorrect zones: The destination zone of the package is mislabeled, and that changes the routing and delivery.
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Incorrect package type: The package type selected during the label creation process does not match the physical characteristics of the package.
Adjustment Processing Fee (APF)
Discrepancies are typically identified by the carrier during the carrier routing process. If a discrepancy is identified on a package, you will be charged the carrier cost adjustment amount in addition to an Adjustment Processing Fee.
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Fee: 20% of the adjustment amount
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Minimum Charge: $0.50
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Maximum Charge: $5.00 per shipment
The best way to avoid adjustments is to make sure you enter accurate weight and dimensions for every package you ship. This will ensure the correct rate is applied when preparing your shipping label. Entering accurate package information is the responsibility of the shipper. This is true for all carriers.
Other things to consider:
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Use a postal scale. Don't guess! Using a scale, properly calibrated, helps ensure accurate weights.
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For dimensions, round up fractional amounts: For example, 6.3 inches should be rounded up to 6.5 inches.
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Check limitations for size or weight: Make certain you package is within any limitations the carrier or service has.
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Use the smallest box: Using the smallest box that can contain proper packing materials will help avoid unnecessary surcharges, like the Dimensional Weight Surcharge.
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Use sturdy packaging: Use materials that will not deform during shipping. A deformed package can, in some cases, exceed dimension limits for some services.
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Indicate Special Handling: If your package is a non-standard shape or is not a corrugated cardboard box, it will require special handling. For example, boxes that are very long, very wide, or an odd shape (like tubes).
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Get familiar with your carrier's rules: Some carriers have supplemental surcharges for delivery to certain areas. While these have been in place for many years, be sure you are aware of any extra costs.
