Understanding UPS Additional Handling Fees for 2022

If you are shipping packages via UPS, it’s important to understand the different fees that can impact your shipping costs. One of the fees that you may encounter is the UPS Additional Handling Fee. In this comprehensive article, we will provide you with all the information you need to know about UPS Additional Handling Fees, including what they are, how they affect your shipping costs, and how you can avoid or reduce them.

What are UPS Additional Handling Fees?

UPS Additional Handling Fees are surcharges that are applied to packages that require special handling beyond what is defined as the standard criteria by UPS. These fees are assessed to cover the cost of additional handling and processing required for certain packages.

Examples of packages that may incur UPS Additional Handling Fees include those that are over 70 pounds in weight, those that are over 48 inches in length, or those that are not fully encased in cardboard packaging. These packages require additional handling and processing to ensure they are safely transported and delivered to their destination.

How do UPS Additional Handling Fees affect your shipping costs?

When shipping packages with UPS, the cost of the shipping service is calculated based on several factors, including the weight and dimensions of the package, the origin and destination of the package, and the delivery speed. The UPS Additional Handling Fee is an additional surcharge that can significantly increase the overall cost of shipping, depending on the package dimensions and weight.

The UPS Additional Handling Fee is applied to packages that require special handling, such as those that are over 70 pounds in weight, over 48 inches in length, or over 30 inches in width. This fee is also applied to packages that are not fully encased in cardboard or have irregular shapes, as they require additional handling and may be more difficult to transport.

To avoid these additional fees, it is important to properly package your items before shipping. Use sturdy cardboard boxes and ensure that the package is fully enclosed and secured with packing materials. If you are unsure whether your package will incur additional handling fees, you can use the UPS shipping calculator to estimate the cost of your shipment.

What types of packages are subject to UPS Additional Handling Fees?

Packages that meet any of the following criteria may be subject to UPS Additional Handling Fees:

• Package weight exceeds 70 pounds.
• The length of the package exceeds 48 inches.
• The length plus girth (2 x width, 2 x height) exceeds 130 inches.
• The package is not fully encased in an outer shipping container.
• The package is not rectangular or square in shape.
• Any packages that are fragile, contain hazardous materials, or have special handling requirements.

How much do UPS Additional Handling Fees cost?

The cost of UPS Additional Handling Fees varies depending on the package requirements. As of 2021, the base fee for UPS Additional Handling Fees is $16 per package. However, this fee can increase if the package is oversized and requires additional handling and processing. The fees can quickly add up and significantly impact your shipping costs if you’re sending multiple packages.

It’s important to note that UPS Additional Handling Fees are not the only fees that can impact your shipping costs. Other fees, such as fuel surcharges and residential delivery fees, can also add up quickly. It’s important to carefully review all fees associated with your shipment to accurately calculate your total shipping costs.

When do you need to pay for UPS Additional Handling Fees?

UPS Additional Handling Fees are billed to the shipper on the same invoice as the base shipping fees. You will be required to pay for these fees at the time of shipment. If you’re using an electronic shipping platform, UPS will automatically calculate the fees and add them to the total shipping cost for your package.

It’s important to note that UPS Additional Handling Fees may apply to packages that exceed certain size and weight limits. For example, if your package weighs more than 70 pounds or has a length greater than 48 inches, you may be subject to these fees. Additionally, if your package is not properly packaged or requires special handling, such as being marked as fragile or hazardous, you may also be charged these fees.

To avoid unexpected fees, it’s recommended that you carefully measure and weigh your package before shipping it with UPS. You can also consult with UPS or use their online tools to determine if your package will be subject to Additional Handling Fees. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you’re prepared to pay any necessary fees and that your package will be shipped safely and efficiently.

What are the common reasons for incurring UPS Additional Handling Fees?

There are several reasons that a package may incur UPS Additional Handling Fees, including:

• The package is overweight or oversized.
• The package doesn’t meet the standard shipping criteria for UPS.
• Your package is not adequately protected or enclosed.
• Your package contains fragile items that require special handling.
• Your package is being shipped to a residential address that may require additional handling.

It is important to note that UPS Additional Handling Fees can significantly increase the cost of shipping. To avoid these fees, it is recommended that you properly measure and weigh your package before shipping, and ensure that it meets UPS’s standard shipping criteria.

If you are shipping fragile items, it is also recommended that you use appropriate packaging materials, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts, to protect your items during transit. Additionally, you may want to consider purchasing additional insurance to protect your items in case of damage during shipping.

How can you avoid UPS Additional Handling Fees?

If you want to avoid UPS Additional Handling Fees, it’s essential to understand the shipping criteria defined by UPS. You can try to minimize the dimensions of your packages, use sturdy and protective packaging, and avoid any special handling requirements. Additionally, choosing a different carrier that doesn’t assess additional handling fees can be a viable solution. However, it’s important to weigh the cost and benefits of using different carriers.

Another way to avoid UPS Additional Handling Fees is to use UPS’s own packaging options. UPS offers a range of packaging options that are designed to meet their shipping criteria and avoid additional handling fees. These packaging options include UPS Express Box, UPS Express Tube, and UPS WorldShip Pack. By using these packaging options, you can ensure that your package meets UPS’s shipping criteria and avoid any additional handling fees.

It’s also important to note that UPS Additional Handling Fees can vary depending on the destination of your package. If you’re shipping internationally, you may be subject to additional handling fees from the destination country’s customs agency. To avoid these fees, it’s important to research the customs requirements of the destination country and ensure that your package meets all necessary criteria.

Tips for reducing the impact of UPS Additional Handling Fees on your business

If your business relies on UPS for shipping, the additional handling fees can add up quickly, increasing your total shipping costs. Here are some tips to minimize or avoid these fees:

• Always measure and weigh your packages accurately before shipment.
• Use sturdy and protective packaging that can withstand the rigors of shipping.
• Ship fragile or irregularly shaped packages using a different carrier or a specialized shipping service.
• Try to consolidate packages to reduce the number of shipments requiring special handling.
• Discuss options with your UPS account representative to see if they offer any incentives or discounts on these fees.

Another way to reduce the impact of UPS Additional Handling Fees on your business is to consider using UPS’s own packaging options. UPS offers a variety of packaging options that are designed to meet their shipping requirements and minimize the risk of additional handling fees. These packages are available in a range of sizes and materials, and can be ordered online or through your UPS account representative. By using UPS’s own packaging options, you can ensure that your packages are properly prepared for shipping and reduce the risk of additional handling fees.

The impact of COVID-19 on UPS Additional Handling Fees

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the shipping industry, and UPS is no exception. Increased demand for online shopping and shipping has led to an increase in packages that require special handling, such as oversized items or packages requiring extra padding. As a result, UPS has increased their Additional Handling Fees to cover the additional costs of handling these packages.

Furthermore, the pandemic has also caused delays in shipping and delivery times due to increased safety measures and staffing shortages. This has resulted in a higher volume of packages being held in UPS facilities for longer periods of time, which can also lead to additional handling fees for certain packages. Customers should be aware of these potential fees and factor them into their shipping costs when making online purchases.

Comparison of UPS Additional Handling Fees with other carrier fees

Other major carriers, such as FedEx and USPS, also assess additional fees for specific types of shipments that require additional handling or special services. It’s essential to compare and evaluate all carrier fees before deciding which carrier to use for your business’s shipping needs.

When comparing carrier fees, it’s important to consider the size and weight of your shipments. Some carriers may have lower base rates but charge higher fees for oversized or heavy packages. Additionally, some carriers may offer discounts or promotions for certain types of shipments or for businesses that ship frequently.

Another factor to consider is the level of customer service provided by each carrier. While all carriers strive to deliver packages on time and in good condition, some may offer more personalized support or have better tracking and communication systems in place. It’s worth researching each carrier’s customer service reputation and policies before making a decision.

The future of UPS Additional Handling Fees: what to expect in 2022 and beyond

As of now, it’s unclear if UPS plans to make any significant changes to their Additional Handling Fees for 2022 and beyond. However, as the shipping industry continues to evolve, it’s crucial to stay informed about any changes that may impact your business’s shipping costs.

Case studies: how businesses have dealt with and minimized the impact of UPS Additional Handling Fees

Many businesses that rely on UPS for shipping have found creative ways to minimize the impact of Additional Handling Fees. For example, some businesses have invested in specialized packaging equipment that can automatically package products in a way that meets UPS’s criteria for standard shipping. Additionally, some businesses have negotiated discounts or incentives with UPS to minimize the cost of these fees.

In conclusion, understanding UPS Additional Handling Fees is essential for any business that relies on shipping to fulfill customer orders. These fees can significantly impact your overall shipping costs, and it’s essential to understand how they are calculated and how to avoid or minimize them. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can reduce the impact of these fees and improve the efficiency of your shipping processes.