Why do I get charged a different shipping rate than what the customer paid me in shopify?

In the checkout flow, the shipping rate is determined by the product weight set in Shopify and the destination country. If a product is 2 lbs in Shopify, the customer will pay the 2 lb rate. However, the actual shipping rate you are charged may differ due to several reasons:

Reasons for rate discrepancies:

1. Product weights in Shopify may be inaccurate:

   • Check Accuracy: The product weights configured in Shopify might not be accurate. We recommend reviewing and ensuring the weights for your products in Shopify are correct.
     
     

2. Packaging Weight:

   • Consider Packaging: The weight of the packaging may affect the overall weight of the shipment.
     
     
   • Add Padding: Consider adding some "padding" to the weights in Shopify to account for the additional weight from the packaging.
     
     

3. DIM Weight (Dimensional Weight):

   • Calculation Method: For DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) orders, we calculate the shipping rate using the greater of the actual product weight and the Dimensional (DIM) weight.
     
     
   • Example: If a product ships in a 12x10x6 inch parcel, the DIM weight is calculated as follows:
     • DIM Weight = (L x W x H) / 139
     • DIM Weight = (12 x 10 x 6) / 139 = 5.17 lbs (rounded up to 6 lbs)
       
       
   • Rate Charged: If the DIM weight is greater than the actual weight, you will be charged the 6 lb rate during fulfillment.

Recommendations to manage shipping rates

1. Review and adjust product weights:

   • Regularly review and update product weights in Shopify to ensure accuracy.
     
     

2. Account for packaging:

   • Add a buffer to product weights in Shopify to account for packaging materials that may add to the overall weight.
     
     

3. Optimize packaging:

   • Consider using packaging that minimizes DIM weight. Smaller or more compact packaging can help reduce DIM weight charges.

If you need help navigating DIM weight or have further questions about shipping rates, please reach out to our partner support team. We're here to help you manage and optimize your shipping processes!