UPS Over Maximum Size Surcharge -- can it be fought?

[art-deco-medal-fiend]

I shipped out a large package via UPS last week that I listed as 53 x 47 x 9.  I was well aware of the maximum dimensions and measured my package multiple times to make sure it didn't go over the limit of 165 inches in girth (Length plus 2x width plus 2x height).  I payed online.  It was $309.  UPS picked up the package from me.  I was there when they picked it up.  This was on 12/2.  Today, 12/7, I get an e-mail from UPS advising me that I'm being charged an additional $1,100 -- that's right -- $1,100 -- because the package was audited and came in over the limit.  As far as I'm concerned, this is a scam.  As mentioned, I was aware of the limits and made sure I was within them.  Has anyone had this happen to them and have they been able to successfully fight the charge?  I've taken UPS to small claims court before and won but this is different.  It's my word against theirs.  Not to be cynical but I'm sure UPS did this intentionally.  Any advice is appreciated.  Thanks.

Audited Dimensions = 53 x 48 x 10 in
Customer Entered Dimensions = 53 x 47 x 9 in
Over Maximum Size 850.00
Peak Surcharge - Over Max 250.00

[pilgrimelectronics]

When you measured your package multiple times, did you measure it at the edges like most people do?

Then there's a good chance that your package bulged just enough at the center of the long sides to push the measurements over the limit. (UPS uses lasers to measure boxes in transit.) All it takes is an increase of 1/2" on a side to push it over the maximum limit. This could have happened in transit as the contents of the package shifted or settled, or it the box was slightly crushed on one edge.

If you are aware of the maximum size limits and confiscatory penalties UPS imposes, you should be very careful when you're dancing that close to the edge of those limits.

[corvettestainless]

@pilgrimelectronics  Hit it right on the head. You can't measure from the fold creases (well you can, but you better ad 1"). I always do and have never had an issue. 

[express_commerce]

@art-deco-medal-fiend 

Your measurements were very close to the limit. Maybe your measurements were flawed, or maybe the box was deformed just enough to go over the limit.

I am pretty sure UPS didn't do this intentionally. The inspection guy made nothing extra from it, and I can't imagine a giant company would knowingly commit fraud.

[vikingsandpintos]

I don't use UPS, but have received some large packages thru them. How in the world can a package cost that much? Was it really heavy, or something else special? I see car bumpers and such, not nearly that expensive. Just had a roll cage kit delivered, pretty bulky, and no where near that much. Just sounds off?

[gwzcomps]

Those are tricky to fight. Maybe tell them your dimensions were right till they manhandled your box 😉

Also try hitting up their social media pages. Sometimes they respond.

[pilgrimelectronics]

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@vikingsandpintos wrote:

I don't use UPS, but have received some large packages thru them. How in the world can a package cost that much? Was it really heavy, or something else special? I see car bumpers and such, not nearly that expensive. Just had a roll cage kit delivered, pretty bulky, and no where near that much. Just sounds off?

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The dimensional weight of a maximum sized package is 162 lbs, which costs $225 retail rates to zone 8, plus a large package surcharge of $95 for a total of $320 for worst case, plus a possible pickup fee since he doesn't have daily service. Daily rates would max out at about $220.