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Unexpected Charges

You've paid and sent your shipment. What could be causing extra charges?

Alexa Fangman avatar
Written by Alexa Fangman
Updated today

Additional Shippy Charges

At Shippy, we aim to be transparent about when additional charges may occur and why.

While most shipments process exactly as quoted at the time of label creation, there are situations where a carrier may apply adjustments after the package is in transit. These adjustments are determined by the carrier - not Shippy - and are based on how the parcel is processed within their network.

If an adjustment occurs, the charge will automatically be applied to your account and reflected in your billing history.


Incorrect Package Dimensions

When creating a shipment, you provide the parcel’s height, width, length, and weight. Carriers verify this information as packages move through their facilities using automated scanning systems.

If the carrier determines that the actual dimensions or weight differ from what was entered, they may issue a billing adjustment. This most commonly happens when:

  • The package weighs more than entered

  • The dimensions exceed what was selected

  • The shipment exceeds service limits (e.g., oversized or dimensional weight thresholds)

Any resulting adjustment will be charged against your postage balance.

How to avoid this:
Carefully measure and weigh your parcel before generating the label. Even small differences can trigger dimensional weight pricing with certain carriers.


Return to Sender

If a shipment cannot be successfully delivered, it may be returned to the sender. This can occur for several reasons, including:

  • Incorrect or incomplete delivery address

  • Recipient unavailable or refusing delivery

  • Failed delivery attempts

  • Customs or documentation issues (for international shipments)

If a package is marked “Return to Sender,” the carrier will transport it back to you. In most cases, you will be charged a return shipping fee that is similar to the original shipping rate. This fee covers the cost of transporting the parcel back through the carrier’s network.

The return charge will automatically appear in your billing history once processed by the carrier.


Other Possible Carrier Adjustments

Although less common, additional charges may also occur in situations such as:

  • Address corrections made by the carrier

  • Residential or delivery area surcharges

  • Additional handling fees (irregular packaging, tubes, soft packaging, etc.)

  • Signature or special service requirements added during transit

These adjustments are applied by the carrier according to their published rate rules.


If you ever have questions about a specific charge, our team is happy to review it with you. Simply reach out and we’ll help clarify what happened.

Our goal is to make shipping straightforward and predictable - and to ensure you always understand what you’re being charged and why.


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