USPS Priority miscalculations? Need Help.

[jqueenSCFTA]

I am curious about shipping calculations and possible shipping discrepancies. I have one order weighing 1.19 lbs, being shipped 2302 miles getting the shipping fees of $7.79. Then I have another order weighing 0.75 lbs, being shipped 622 miles getting the shipping fees of $8.80. Both are set to USPS Priority.

Why is the heavier item that is travelling further being charged less? Is there something wrong with the calculations or my setup? We just have the USPS default priority rate selected.

[Luna · Accepted solution]

Hey, @jqueenSCFTA.

That's a great question. Thanks for bringing it to our Community forum. I'd be more than happy to provide some clarification on USPS shipping fee calculations. 

For some context, USPS uses the Domestic Zone Chart to classify shipments into a zone. That zone is based on the origin and destination ZIP codes, which are used to calculate the price of shipping. If you look at the rate table, the zone is along the top and the weight is along the left. For example, let’s say you had a 1.19 lbs package that was classified as zone 8, you would go down the rows to the row that is assigned that weight, then to the right in that row until you hit the column for zone 8.  For comparative savings, you can use our calculator in the Shipping Toolbox or look at the USPS prices here. 

That being said, it's possible that a lighter package going to a closer distance may be more expensive depending on the zone it falls under. If you'd like us to take a closer look at the orders specifically, please visit our Help Center and log in to your account to create a support request. While we’re not able to provide account-specific support via the Shopify Community at this time, we’d be happy to continue assisting you through live chat, email, or callback. 

Please let me if you have any questions about that. In the meantime, how has everything been going with business? I'd love to hear more about your products and store! 

[Luna]

Hey, @jqueenSCFTA.

Just checking in with you here. Please let me know if my response provides clarity or if you have any other questions. I'm more than happy to help.

Warmly, 

[jqueenSCFTA]

It does, thank you for the response and clarification.

[Luna]

Hey, @jqueenSCFTA.

I'm so happy to hear that. Thanks for getting back to me!

All the best,