UPS applies an additional handling surcharge on top of their base transportation charges to large packages that cannot go through the normal process and need more attention. Additional handling surcharges are applied based on three categories, and each varies in cost. Below is a breakdown how those surcharges will be applied beginning December 26, 2023.
1. Dimension
Packages that…- Measure greater than 48 inches on its longest side;
- Measure greater than 30 inches on its second-longest side; or
- Measure greater than 105 inches in length plus girth (longest side of the package plus 2 x width plus 2 x height)
2024 Cost
- Zone 2: $18.50 per package
- Zones 3 – 4: $20.50 per package
- Zones 5+: $23.50 per package
2. Weight
- Weigh more than 50 lbs; or
- Are part of a shipment where the average weight per package is greater than 50 lbs and the weight for each package is not specified on the source document or the UPS automated shipping system used.
2024 Cost
- Zone 2: $29 per package
- Zones 3 – 4: $31.50 per package
- Zones 5+: $34.50 per package
3. Packaging
Packages that…- Are not fully encased in a corrugated cardboard shipping container, including tires;
- Have an outer shipping container not made of corrugated cardboard, including but not limited to canvas, leather, metal, wood, hard plastic, soft plastic (e.g., plastic bag) or expanded polystyrene foam (e.g., styrofoam);
- Are encased in a soft-sided pack (e.g., poly bags and bubble mailers) that exceed 18 inches along its longest side or 14 inches along its second-longest side or 6 inches in height;
- Have an outer shipping container covered in shrink wrap or stretch wrap;
- Are bound with metal, plastic or cloth banding, or that has wheels, casters, handles or straps (including packages where the outer surface area is loosely wrapped or where the contents protrude outside the container surface);
- Are cylindrical-like, including but no limited to barrels, buckets, cans, drums, mailing tubes or pails;
- Are routed through UPS’ irregular package sortation process, including but not limited to packages 1 inch or less in height; or
- Require special handling, as determined by UPS in its sole discretion.
2024 Cost
- Zone 2: $16.50 per package
- Zones 3 – 4: $19 per package
- Zones 5+: $20.50 per package
Click here for a breakdown of Fedex’s 2024 Additional Handling surcharges.
