Brief Description
Back rates refer to a situation where the shipping rates used at the time of the transaction undergo changes or adjustments after the shipment has taken place.
This change results in a difference between the initial rate and the final rate charged by the courier service.
This article explains in detail the causes of back rates and the steps that can be taken to resolve them.
What Are Back Rates?
Back rates occur when the courier performs a rate adjustment after the shipment is completed.
This is generally caused by differences between the shipping data entered into the system (such as weight, dimensions, or address) and the actual data verified by the courier after the package is received.
In other words, the initial rate displayed in Biteship is an estimate based on the information you provided and may change after verification by the courier.
Causes of Back Rates
Some common reasons that cause back rates include:
1. Difference Between Actual Weight and Entered Weight
The weight input when creating the order differs from the actual weighing result by the courier.
Example: input weight is 1 kg, but after packaging it turns out to be 1.3 kg.
2. Difference in Package Dimensions
The courier calculates shipping costs using dimensional weight (volume weight).
If the package size is larger than recorded, the rate will be adjusted based on the actual volume.
3. Change in Destination Zone or Area
The courier sets rates based on shipping zones.
If after verification the destination address is found to be in a different area (for example, a remote area), the rate will be updated.
4. Rate Adjustments from the Courier
Couriers may periodically update their rate structures or correct previous rates that were inaccurate.
5. Errors in Shipping Data Input
Errors in data such as address, postal code, or selected courier service can trigger rate differences after verification by the courier.
Steps to Resolve Back Rates
If you encounter back rates, here are the steps you can take:
1. Check Order Details
Make sure that the weight, dimensions, and shipping address entered match the actual condition of the package.
2. Check Notifications and Invoices on the Dashboard
Biteship will send notifications or status updates when there is a rate adjustment.
You can view the details of rate changes through Biteship Dashboard > Transactions > Order Details.
3. Verify Adjustment Evidence
If you want to confirm the reason for the rate change, you can request verification from the Biteship team to obtain evidence or explanation from the courier.
4. Make Payment or Adjustments
If back rates cause underpayment, settle the balance according to the corrected amount.
If there is an overpayment, the balance will be adjusted or refunded to your account.
5. Take Preventive Measures for the Future
To avoid back rates in the future:
Weigh and measure packages accurately before creating an order.
Use correct address and postal code data.
Regularly update courier rates through the Biteship system.
Conclusion
Back rates are common in the shipping process, especially if there is a discrepancy between user input data and actual data in the field.
By ensuring the accuracy of shipping information, you can minimize the risk of back rates and ensure a smooth shipping process.
Need more help?
If you experience issues related to back rates or need further clarification, please contact us at support@biteship.com for additional assistance.