Is USPS postage cost based on the shipping post office zip code rather than mine?

Question

I just had a zone adjustment charge of $8.55 on a package with shipping costs of $31.53.

I have two post offices about 4 and 7 miles from my home and their zip codes are both different than mine.

While the adjustment seems high, my real question is... when I calculate / estimate the cost of shipping, it appears I should be using the zip code of the post office rather than mine. I have never seen anything from eBay about that sort of guidance. Any feedback would be appreciated. Thanks

eastlaneave · Answer

@1fish2fishredfishbluefish

You are correct, it is the post office that you ship from that counts.

Here's how to handle this so you get correct calculations, if you are using calculated shipping. Mostly it matters for items 1 lb + but it's a good habit to be in.

Zip Codes are all done on zones, and you must be on a dividing line.

On the listing, the item location should be the 'Ship From' post office zip code, not necessarily your home zip code, if it varies.

When you print your label

There is a 'Edit' button on the lower right-hand side of the Print Shipping Label screen.

- If you don't see something like this to the right on the shipping screen, click the "Show additional shipping options" on the upper right, then look again.

Ship from

This Town OH 4xxxx-xxxx (Post office - you can enter the address of the PO if needed, only the Zip matters)

Return to

Other City OH 4xxxx-xxxx (your address)

Click the 'Edit' underneath the addresses.

Ship from.JPG

This window opens

Ship from 2.JPG

You'll be able to select the addresses you entered in to your account.

-- Return Address is what prints on the label <-- Your address

On the App,

Get Shipping Label

Click the > to the right of Order Details

Edit Ship From to enter the drop off zip code.

Add a separate Return To address if that applies.

-- Return Address is what prints on the label,

-- Ship From Zip prints at the very top of the label by the postage.

Set up all your addresses here

-- “Registration address” your official address,
-- "Return Address" which prints on the label, and
-- “Ship From Address” which must have the zip/postal code for the post office you use (usually the same, but not always)
https://accountsettings.ebay.com/uas/addresses