When it comes to shipping with FedEx or UPS, it’s important to be aware of additional handling fees that may apply to your packages. These fees are designed to cover the extra costs associated with processing and transporting packages that require special handling. In this post, we’ll explain what additional handling fees are and when they apply with FedEx and UPS.
What are additional handling fees?
Additional handling fees are charges that shipping carriers like FedEx and UPS apply to packages that require special handling. These fees are in addition to the regular shipping costs and are designed to cover the additional costs associated with processing and transporting these packages.
Examples of packages that may incur additional handling fees include those that:
- are oversized or overweight
- are irregularly shaped or difficult to handle
- contain fragile or hazardous items
- require special packaging or labeling
- have a high declared value
FedEx applies additional handling fees to packages that meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Any package with dimensions exceeding 48 inches (length), 30 inches (width), or 30 inches (height)
- Any package with a length exceeding 96 inches
- Any package with a weight exceeding 150 pounds
- Any package that is not fully encased in an outer shipping container
- Any package that contains any items that are fragile, regardless of the packaging
- Any package that contains any hazardous materials
- Any package that has a value of $100 or more
- The exact fee amount will depend on the package’s weight, dimensions, and any special handling requirements.
UPS applies additional handling fees to packages that meet one or more of the following criteria:
- Any package with dimensions exceeding 48 inches (length), 30 inches (width), or 30 inches (height)
- Any package with a length exceeding 108 inches
- Any package with a weight exceeding 70 pounds
- Any package that is not fully encased in an outer shipping container
- Any package that contains any items that are fragile, regardless of the packaging
- Any package that contains any hazardous materials
- Any package that has a value of $100 or more
- The exact fee amount will depend on the package’s weight, dimensions, and any special handling requirements.
How to avoid additional handling fees
If you want to avoid additional handling fees with FedEx or UPS, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure your package meets the carriers’ size and weight restrictions. If your package is oversized or overweight, consider breaking it down into smaller packages.
Second, use proper packaging to protect your items during shipping. Use sturdy, corrugated cardboard boxes and packing materials like bubble wrap or foam peanuts to cushion fragile items. Label any packages containing fragile items or hazardous materials clearly.
Additional handling fees are an important consideration when shipping with FedEx or UPS. By understanding when these fees apply and taking steps to avoid them, you can save money and ensure that your packages arrive safely and on time.