USPS rejected large package

[jwwatlanta]

I sold a bike via eBay and packed it in a bike box.  The buyer selected USPS as the shipping carrier using the USPS ground advantage.  The maximum dimensions as noted noted on eBay, was 130" (length + girth) and must be less than 70lbs.  Since the actual dimensions (length + girth) of the box was 127" and the weight was 37 lbs., I purchased the shipping label via eBay.

When I brought the box to the post office, they said the maximum length was 108" (length + girth).  So, they would not accept the shipment.  Thus, I had the bike shipped via FedEx for almost twice the cost.  While believe I can get the USPS shipping cost refunded, I would expect eBay to pay the difference between the USPS label cost and the FedEx shipping cost.

[inceptions]

Hi @jwwatlanta 

Sounds like you misread...

This is what you see when you select Priority Mail as the shipping method for your label:

[jwwatlanta]

I selected and printed a label for USPS Ground Advantage, not USPS Priority mail.  Per specs on USPS website:

Packages over 15.999 oz and up to 70 lbs

• Maximum weight is 70 lbs.
• For items over 15.999 oz (which rounds up to 1 lb), rates are by the pound (lb), rounded up. For example, if your package weighs 8.3 lb, you will pay the 9-lb price.
• Maximum combined length and girth (girth is the distance around the thickest part) is 130 inches.

[inceptions]

@jwwatlanta 

Ahhh, sorry, that is correct.

And that is also correct per USPS.com:

Assuming you entered the correct dimensions when you created your shipping label, the post office should have accepted the package, so unfortunately they are the ones at fault. eBay provided the correct information.

[jwwatlanta]

Unfortunately, I believe you’re correct..USPS should correct the issue.  The clerk was adamant that 108 was the maximum.

However, I would like to see eBay eliminate USPS as a shipping option for bikes. With the exception of a child’s bike, a standard bike box (which is the only way to safely ship a bike) will be close or exceed the USPS dimensions for Ground Advantage.  FedEx or UPS are the only carriers, in the U.S., which will accept standard or larger bike boxes..at a much higher price.