FedEx overcharging

[mangga23]

I have used more FedEx ground recently since the rate is even better than usps ground.  I shipped out and paid $6.68  for 1 item that weighs less than 1 pound in a 10x6x4 box.  I then got a notification of extra shipping charge. From $6.68 to $64.54 - billable weight 50 pounds ?? Even if they charge dimensional weight it is only 2 pounds (1.73) the most.  Just wondering if this is just a clerical error on their end or something else?  Did anyone else experience problems with  FedEx ground adjustment? 

[caldreamer]

I stopped using FedEx and UPS because they are notorious for adding on "extra surcharges" after EBAY label is printed.   I found out that EBAY policy states that FedEx rates on EBAY are "best estimate" and you could be subject to additional charges after the label is printed.

And now the post office is also in the "money grab" game, and they are adding on surcharges "after the fact".

[simba6]

Fedex is the worst for that.   Sounds like their automated system said your package was over size when it was not. 

[tobaccocardyahoo]

Could be that your package was on the top of another package when the automated check the charge function was performed.

You might get it reversed if you can find the appropriate way to appeal.

The only justification for using FEDEX Ground is the price. But FEDEX Ground is an abominable service in many areas of the country. Packages arrive dirty and beat to heck, days after scanned delivered. And as Click and Clack on NPR used to tell us "The stingy man pays the most".

The only vendor who uses FEDEX Ground that I will order from is Ebay Supplies and only because of the 25 dollar coupon each quarter. I stopped buying from anyone who I know ships FEDEX Ground.

[duffy4444]

   This "gotcha grab" is the main reason why I won't use FedEx or UPS.  Billable dimensional weight is total **bleep**.

   You mentioned a 10x6x4 box. The way boxes are made these days, that dimension is the internal dimension, not the outer dimension. The outer dimension of my 10x6x4 boxes is 10.25 x 6.25 x 4.25. That extra 1/4 inch gives FedEx and UPS the excuse to ding you with an unnecessary upgrade. Maybe the USPS will eventually get on the same bandwagon, but so far I haven't noticed the USPS upgrading the box size to the next inch unless it is on or past the 1/2 inch mark. 

    In using exclusively USPS, neither I nor my customers have ever had any kind of surcharge. Perhaps that is because I always add an extra couple tenths of an ounce to the weight to cover any USPS deviation or mis-calibration in their processing equipment. And I always measure up to the next inch myself if the dimensions are close to the 1/2 inch cutoff mark. So far, 100% successful.

   IMO, always be precise and err on the side of caution by increasing the tenths when weighing and measuring your box, and still generously adding a little bit to cover your tush when using FedEx, UPS, and even the USPS. 

Cheers, Duffy   

[ryry-jj]

@mangga23 

I'm curious, you have a large amount of sales, why do you not have your own FedEx account?  You just need to get the home delivery surcharged waved, and then drop off all packages at FedEx locations to avoid the pick up fee...you might pay the same rates as eBay gives us.

I use FedEx in my day-to-day business, rates are about the same as eBay, however as a B2B, I do have to pay a home delivery surcharge...this doesn't work on eBay since most deliveries go to a home.  But never have I ever had an after the fact charge.   In comparison, I stay away from FedEx on eBay for just the situation you mentioned, happens wayyyy toooo much here