GlossaryRates and surcharges

Billable weight

The weight a carrier actually charges for: the greater of a package's actual weight and its dimensional weight.

Billable weight is the weight used to price a shipment. Carriers compare the actual scale weight with the dimensional weight and charge for whichever is greater, usually rounded up to the next whole pound.

If a seller enters a lower weight or smaller dimensions than the carrier measures, the carrier bills the difference later as an adjustment, often with a fee. Measuring and weighing accurately when creating the label avoids surprise charges.

Learn more in our Multi-carrier shipping articles.

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