In logistics operations, users sometimes experience price differences between the estimated cost at the time of order creation and the final cost after the package is processed by the courier. This change is known as Shipping Surcharge/Adjustment.
Price adjustments are made by the expedition based on the actual condition of the package upon arrival at the sorting warehouse. This article aims to help you understand the factors causing these price changes so you can minimize additional costs in the future.
This article will help you understand:
- Causes of package weight differences
- What volumetric (dimensional) weight is
- Courier Surcharge Fees (Additional Fees)
- How to avoid price changes
- Price difference billing process
- Price updates via Biteship API
1. Scale Weight Differences (Dead Weight)
The most common cause is the difference in scale results between the sender and the expedition party. This often occurs due to uncalibrated scales or the addition of packing materials (bubble wrap, cardboard, wood) that were not accounted for when initially inputting the order.
2. Volumetric Weight Calculation (Dimensions)
Expeditions also calculate volumetric weight for packages that are large in size but light in weight. If the volumetric weight is greater than the physical weight, the price will be adjusted. The formula used is:
(Length x Width x Height) / 6000 = Volumetric Weight (kg)
3. Surcharge Fees (Additional Fees)
Besides weight differences, some couriers charge additional fees (Surcharge) for certain shipping categories such as dangerous goods, high-value items, or packages with extreme weight (Overweight).
Each courier has different surcharge percentage policies. To find detailed surcharge fees for each courier, please visit the following link: Click here to see Courier Surcharge Fees.
4. How to Avoid Price Changes
To keep your bill in line with the initial estimate, follow these tips:
- Data Accuracy: Weigh and measure package dimensions after packing is complete (ready to ship).
- Use Digital Scales: Avoid manual scales to minimize inaccurate gram weight differences.
- Pay Attention to Rounding: Understand the weight rounding rules of each expedition.
5. Price Difference Billing Process
If a price difference occurs after the package is processed by the courier, Biteship will make adjustments as follows:
- Balance Deduction: The cost difference will be automatically debited from your account balance.
- Additional Invoice: For corporate accounts, the difference will appear on the periodic invoice as an adjustment item.
6. FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. Why is the weight on the receipt different from my scale?
This can be caused by calibration differences in the equipment or the courier using volumetric weight calculation if the package size is large.
2. Can I file a complaint about the price difference?
Yes. Please contact the support team by attaching a photo of the package on a digital scale along with proof of its dimensions.
3. Can the price change to be cheaper?
Generally, the system adjusts for underpayments. Downward adjustments (refunds) depend on the validation policy of each courier.
4. When is the balance deduction made?
Balance deduction is made automatically as soon as the courier updates the actual weight data in the system or when the package status changes.
5. How to update prices systematically if I use Biteship API?
For API users, you can use the Webhook type order.price to receive automatic price updates. The technical guide can be found at: Biteship Webhook Documentation.
7. Conclusion
Shipping price changes are normal in logistics due to adjustments based on the physical condition of packages in the field. By making accurate measurements and monitoring courier surcharge policies, you can better manage operational costs.
If you encounter any issues, please contact the Biteship support team at support@biteship.com.