Straight answers to the questions we hear most from sellers and everyday shippers.
A combination of fuel surcharges, peak-season fees, and annual general rate increases (typically applied each January) push published rates up most years. Comparing carriers and using commercial rates through shipping software can offset much of this.
Usually, for packages under about 1–2 lb — but it depends on package dimensions and destination zone. See our full breakdown in the USPS vs UPS vs FedEx guide.
A pricing method that bills based on how much space a package takes up, not just its actual weight. See our full glossary entry and pillar guide for the formula.
Not necessarily. Many countries have a de minimis value threshold under which low-value shipments avoid duties, but this varies by country and changes over time.
The fastest path is shipping software, which offers pre-negotiated commercial rates from your first shipment. Direct carrier negotiation typically requires sustained monthly volume.
Often yes, above a threshold calculated from your average order value and margin — see our guide on free shipping threshold math for how to set that number.
Carriers re-measure and re-weigh packages in transit and will bill the difference, sometimes with an added correction fee, if your declared dimensions were inaccurate.