ups-banner-bg
ph_img_faq_page_image

Packaging for UPS Shipping – Multi Carrier Shipping Label App for Shopify FAQs

    Configure packaging, box sizes, and weight rules for accurate UPS shipments

Questions in this section:

Will UPS calculate shipping costs based on package dimensions when using box packaging and the ‘Send Package Dimensions (if available)’ option? How to ensure this is set up correctly?

Yes, UPS calculates shipping costs using package dimensions if the app sends the correct data. To guarantee this: 1. Enable the ‘Send Package Dimensions (if available)’ option in the app’s settings for FedEx and UPS carriers. This ensures the app shares package dimensions along with weight during rate requests. 2. If this option was disabled, the app would send only the actual weight, causing UPS to charge only by weight rather than dimensional weight, leading to billing discrepancies. 3. After enabling, reprocess orders in the app and verify that the rates reflect dimensional weight on the carrier website. 4. Confirm that your box dimensions and max weight are set correctly in the app’s box packing settings to allow proper packaging and rate calculation by UPS.

Why might UPS shipping rates shown in the PluginHive app be cheaper than the amount UPS actually charges, even when package dimensions are the same?

Differences in UPS shipping rates within the PluginHive app compared to charges on your UPS account can occur due to several reasons: 1. The app may show estimated or negotiated rates based on your account profile or contract terms, which can differ from the actual billed amount. 2. Dimensional weight or package weight rounding differences might impact the final charge, even if dimensions appear identical. 3. Fuel surcharges, additional fees, or service-specific extras applied by UPS may not be fully reflected in the app’s rate display. 4. Currency conversion or billing cycle timing might cause rate discrepancies. To address this, ensure your UPS account credentials and contract details are correctly input in PluginHive. For precise troubleshooting of rate mismatches, contacting PluginHive support for a session to review your account setup and rate calculation logic is recommended.

Why is there a difference between the UPS shipping rates on my website and the rates shown on the UPS website, even after adding product dimensions and weight?

The shipping rate discrepancy is often caused by how products are packaged within the app. Specifically, if the “Do you stack the products in Boxes?” option is enabled under App Settings -> Shipping -> Packaging, the system may calculate shipping for multiple packages instead of a single consolidated package, affecting the rates. To resolve this: 1. Go to your app’s settings. 2. Navigate to Shipping -> Packaging. 3. Disable the option labeled “Do you stack the products in Boxes?” 4. Save the settings and check the shipping rates again. If the discrepancy persists, compare the shipment details exactly as entered on the UPS website including package dimensions, weight, and shipment options such as insurance, which can impact the cost. Matching all settings between your website and UPS site is essential for rate alignment.

Why is Order #8641 requiring two packages and showing USPS shipping rates for an alcohol item when it should be one package with only UPS as a carrier?

This issue occurs because the product details or the app’s order processing did not update correctly. To resolve this: 1. Force import all products into the PluginHive app to ensure the latest product data is synced. 2. Reprocess the affected order (# 8641. within the app. 3. After these steps, the order should automatically select the correct number of packages (one package for the Wine Shipper) and restrict shipping carriers to only those permitted for alcohol items, such as UPS. 4. Verify the changes by reviewing the packaging and available shipping rates. This process ensures the order adheres to alcohol shipping rules and packaging configurations as set in the app.

Why did the automation rule fail to provide UPS and FedEx Freight shipping rates for my order with multiple packages?

The UPS shipping rates failed because one of the packages in the order weighs 250 lbs, which likely exceeds UPS weight limits for the selected service. For FedEx Freight rates, the failure occurred because one line item, specifically ‘Part F – Cam Lock (1″ thru 3″) – Adapter – Part F 2″ Aluminum,’ is assigned a weight of 0.4 lbs. FedEx Freight requires each individual product line item to have a minimum weight of 1 lb for rates to be calculated properly. To resolve this, update the item weight to at least 1 lb. Then reprocess the order by navigating to your app: go to Orders → open the specific order → change the status to Initial → prepare shipment again, and verify if the rates appear correctly.

What packing method do you recommend when using UPS shipping to ensure accurate shipping costs?

The recommended packing method depends on how you prepare your shipments: 1. **Weight Based Packing:** Use this if you pack products based solely on the product’s actual or volumetric weight without using predefined box sizes. This method calculates shipping rates based on the weight of the items only. 2. **Box Packing:** Use this if you pack your products considering both their dimensions and weight inside predefined box sizes. This method helps reflect the actual packaging dimension and weight, providing precise shipping rates matching UPS charges. For detailed guidance and examples of each packing method, please refer to the PluginHive knowledge base article on packing methods: https://www.pluginhive.com/knowledge-base/packing-methods-shopify-multi-carrier-shipping-label-app/

Is UPS Pak available as a packaging option in the PluginHive app, and how is it configured?

UPS Pak is currently available in the app through the carrier settings: 1. Navigate to **UPS Carrier Settings** > **Other Details**. 2. Under **Packaging Type**, confirm that “UPS Pak” (code 04. is selected. 3. When generating labels, the app will pass the UPS Pak packaging type and calculate shipping rates accordingly. If UPS Pak is configured properly here, the package type and rate will be used automatically in label generation.

Is it possible to use PluginHive to handle shipping with multiple carriers like DHL, UPS, and FedEx, print a QR code or barcode on the packing slip that can be scanned at the shipping station to print the label and archive the order?

Yes, PluginHive supports integration with 33+ shipping carriers, including DHL, UPS, and FedEx. The app allows you to: 1. Connect your carrier accounts to manage shipments from multiple providers. 2. Display calculated shipping rates during checkout. 3. Generate shipping labels in bulk. 4. Send live tracking updates to customers. Regarding barcodes or QR codes for scanning at the shipping station, the app provides barcode generation only through the “new touchless print” feature for label printing. This feature includes a barcode on the printed label that can be scanned to automate printing and order processing. To use this functionality: – First, add and connect your carrier accounts (e.g., DHL, UPS, FedEx) in the app. – Set up your label printing preferences and enable the touchless print feature. – Test the setup to confirm that scanning the barcode at the shipping station triggers label printing and order archiving as per your workflow. If you need help with app setup or customizing automation rules, PluginHive support offers personalized assistance through scheduled calls.

Is it possible to split a single quantity product in Shopify into multiple packages and generate separate UPS shipping labels for each package using PluginHive MultiCarrier?

No, PluginHive MultiCarrier cannot split a single quantity product in Shopify into multiple packages. The app allows packing multiple quantity orders into two or more packages with corresponding labels, but if the product is recorded as a single quantity in Shopify (regardless of the actual item count inside it), the app treats it as one package and does not support splitting it into multiple packages or generating multiple labels. To generate multiple shipping labels, the product must be recorded in Shopify as multiple quantities.

Is it possible to print only the individual product description on UPS labels for pre-packed products when multiple labels are generated?

Unfortunately, no. UPS requires product descriptions to be passed at the shipment level, not at the package level. Therefore: – Even if multiple labels for individual products are generated, each label will contain the combined product descriptions for the entire shipment (all products in the order). – This limitation is due to UPS API constraints and cannot be altered by the app. You can generate individual labels per product, but all product descriptions will still appear on each label.

Is it possible to add custom UPS shipping rates for products that exceed weight limits in PluginHive?

PluginHive does not provide a direct way to add custom UPS shipping rates beyond the official UPS API limits. If you require shipping rates for overweight products, you will need to explore alternatives such as: 1. Using FedEx or XPO logistics freight shipping options supported in the PluginHive app. 2. Creating manual shipping rules or carrier-calculated shipping methods separately on your e-commerce platform for those specific products. Share your existing website details and screenshots to the PluginHive support team for a review, but custom UPS rates for overweight items are not available within the app itself.

How will the new German postal law effective January 1, 2025, affect UPS shipping labels for packages sent to Germany?

Starting January 1, 2025, the new German postal law mandates that packages shipped to Germany falling into specific weight classes must have labels displaying a small “package” symbol indicating the weight class. Specifically: – Packages weighing between 10 and 20 kilograms – Packages weighing more than 20 kilograms These packages will require new label designs reflecting this symbol. UPS systems such as UPS.com, CampusShip, WorldShip, and Ship API will automatically generate labels compliant with this requirement, provided they are the latest versions or properly integrated. Accurate entry of package weight data is essential to ensure these labels are generated correctly and comply with the new law.

How does PluginHive handle shipping rate calculations for orders where the total package weight exceeds UPS’s 150 lbs limit per shipment?

When the total weight of items in a customer’s order exceeds the UPS single package weight limit of 150 lbs (e.g., 4 items each weighing 65 lbs totaling 260 lbs), PluginHive automatically splits the order into multiple packages. In your scenario, the four 65 lb items will be divided into two packages to comply with the weight restrictions. The UPS live shipping rates will then be calculated and displayed based on these individual packages rather than the total combined weight. Note that a single item cannot be split into multiple packages—it will be shipped as one unit. To verify this functionality, you should perform test orders to see how the app divides packages and calculates rates accordingly. If you require further assistance or hands-on support, PluginHive offers the option to schedule a call with their team.

How do I configure the PluginHive app to handle shipments based on weight thresholds such as UPS small packages for 0–149 lbs and LTL freight for 150 lbs and above?

The PluginHive app supports carrier selection and shipping rules based on weight conditions. To configure: 1. Define weight-based conditions within the app to separate shipping methods by package weight (e.g., 0–149 lbs for UPS small packages, 150 lbs and above for FedEx Freight or XPO Logistics). 2. Assign the appropriate carrier and shipping service to each weight range. 3. Configure the rate calculation rules accordingly for each shipping method. Note: UPS TForce is not supported; use FedEx Freight or XPO Logistics for LTL freight shipments over 150 lbs.

How can PluginHive support shipments that exceed UPS weight limits when my current website shows UPS rates for such products?

PluginHive currently supports UPS for packages within UPS weight limits (up to 150 lbs). For freight shipments or heavier packages, the app supports FedEx and XPO logistics freight services instead. If your current website shows UPS rates for products over 150 lbs, those rates might be coming from a custom setup or a shipping service no longer supported by PluginHive (such as TForce). PluginHive does not support adding custom UPS rates for overweight products outside of UPS’s official API limits.

How can I set fixed package dimensions for UPS international shipments so that rates and labels calculate correctly in PluginHive?

PluginHive’s app supports fixed package dimensions using the Box Packing Method. To set this up: 1. Use the “Box Packing” option instead of the default Weight/Volume Based Packing method. 2. Define your package dimensions (e.g., 20×30×4 cm) and tare weight (e.g., 0.03 kg) within the app’s Box Packing settings. 3. This ensures that UPS international rates and shipping labels compute accurately using the specified box sizes and weights. For detailed setup instructions, refer to: https://www.pluginhive.com/knowledge-base/setting-up-shopify-multi-carrier-shipping-label-app/#box-based

How can I manage shipping rate calculations in the app if UPS rates are based on volume/box size and USPS rates are based on weight?

The app accommodates multiple carrier rate calculation methods through the box packing setup. When you use the box packing method, the app sends shipping rate requests to carriers using both the total product weight and the dimensions of the box. Shipping carriers, including UPS and USPS, typically calculate dimensional weight by comparing the package size (volume) and actual weight, charging based on the higher of the two values. This means your current setup effectively allows UPS to charge based on dimensional (volume/box size) weight while USPS charges based on actual weight, ensuring the pricing separation you require. No additional configuration is needed for this to work correctly.

How can I enable package dimensions to be included on UPS shipping labels generated via PluginHive Multicarrier to avoid UPS adjustment charges?

UPS charges can be based on either actual weight or dimensional weight (whichever is greater). To avoid unexpected adjustment fees due to missing package dimensions on labels: 1. Log into your PluginHive Multicarrier app dashboard. 2. Navigate to Settings > Carriers > UPS > Other Details. 3. Enable the option labeled “Send Package Dimensions to the carrier (If Available).” 4. Save your settings. 5. Reprocess any orders currently in ‘Processing’ status to regenerate labels with the new setting active. This will ensure the package dimensions are sent to UPS along with the weight when generating shipping labels, potentially reducing adjustment fees due to dimensional weight charges.

How can I edit the package sizing options in the app to correct pricing discrepancies compared to the UPS website?

To edit package sizing and ensure accurate shipping rates, follow these steps: 1. Navigate to the app and go to the **Orders** section. 2. Open the specific order you want to adjust. 3. Under the **Packaging Summary** area, click on **Edit Package**. 4. Update the package weight and enter the correct package dimensions (length, width, height). 5. After updating, click **Refresh Rates** under the rates summary to recalculate shipping charges based on the new size information. This process allows the app to consider volumetric weight and other sizing details, reducing discrepancies with UPS website rates.

How can I configure the app to automatically use freight shipping or a different carrier for large shipments that exceed the UPS package limit?

The app supports freight shipping via FedEx and XPO Logistics accounts, but for a shipment to qualify as freight, individual packages must exceed 150 lbs. Since your current box settings limit package weight to 49 lbs, the app divides shipments into multiple smaller packages below the freight threshold. To enable automatic freight classification, you must update or add box configurations allowing single packages to weigh 150 lbs or more. Once the system detects a package meeting or exceeding 150 lbs, it will automatically treat that package as a freight shipment and select the appropriate carrier. You can update box settings within the app’s packaging configuration section. If you need assistance updating box settings or setting up freight shipping, you can reach out for further support.

How can I configure packaging settings in the PluginHive app to ensure accurate shipping rates from UPS?

Accurate shipping rates depend on proper packaging configuration. If “Box Packing” is selected but no box sizes are added, the app may pack each product quantity in a separate box, increasing shipping costs. To configure packaging correctly: 1. Navigate to the packaging settings in the PluginHive app. 2. Add your box dimensions (length, width, height, and weight). 3. Select “Box Packing” as your packaging preference. 4. Save the settings to allow the app to pack orders correctly and calculate accurate shipping rates. This setup will help display lower, more accurate shipping prices based on your actual packaging.

How can I calculate accurate shipping rates when I sell different types of products, like low-weight transfers and heavier items such as cups, using PluginHive?

To calculate accurate shipping rates for varied product types in PluginHive, consider these steps: 1. Use a single shipping profile that includes all products, rather than multiple profiles, to ensure combined shipping rates are calculated instead of separate charges. 2. Assign accurate product weights and dimensions to all products, both lightweight and heavier items, within your store. 3. Define packaging dimensions and weights in PluginHive to reflect how products will be combined and shipped together. 4. Set up automation rules within the app to offer shipping options only to specific countries (e.g., Australia and Canada) and preferred UPS or USPS services. 5. Factor in processing time by configuring handling time settings in shipping profiles if available. 6. Test checkout several times with sample orders to verify that shipping rates returned match actual carrier rates and reflect combined packaging. Following this approach ensures real-time, accurate carrier-calculated rates that account for product variety and packing.

Does the PH MultiCarrier Shipping Label app print package dimensions on UPS labels?

Yes, when package dimensions are provided in the order or product details, these dimensions are included and printed on the UPS labels. You can verify this by checking the generated label within the app.

Can I use Shopify’s discounted UPS rates and still have the PluginHive app adjust shipping rates based on my custom package sizes?

No. Shopify’s discounted UPS rates are calculated by Shopify’s own checkout system and do not consider the app’s package size or weight configuration. The PluginHive app can only adjust shipping rates based on packaging if you use your own UPS account rates through the app (requires Starter plan or higher).

Can I set up shipping rate scenarios where orders weighing 150-499 lbs use UPS Ground with a max weight of 150 lbs per package, and orders 500 lbs and above use LTL freight through PluginHive?

Setting these exact scenarios involves some limitations due to carrier support policies. UPS no longer supports LTL freight services within PluginHive. Because of this: 1. You can configure packaging settings with a maximum package weight of 150 lbs. For orders exceeding this, the system will automatically split the shipment into multiple packages each not exceeding 150 lbs. 2. Since UPS LTL freight is unsupported, you should avoid adding LTL freight services. Instead, you can create rate automation rules with the ‘Any’ condition and apply the UPS Ground service under the “Add Carrier Services” action to cover shipments effectively. 3. To set this up, navigate in the PluginHive app to Settings > Shipping Rates > Rate Automation, and then add or edit automation rules following the above logic. This setup ensures orders over 150 lbs are shipped via multiple UPS Ground packages, complying with carrier limitations. If you require more tailored solutions, consider other carriers supporting LTL or contact support for assistance.

After upgrading to the Starter Plan, how do I update UPS live rates to calculate accurately based on product dimensions or weight?

Once upgraded, the app calculates UPS shipping rates at checkout based on the higher value between the actual product weight and volumetric weight. To verify and ensure accuracy: 1. Make a few test transactions at checkout and observe the displayed shipping rates. 2. Navigate to App Settings → Shipping Rates → Request Log to review detailed rate calculation requests and responses. This will help confirm that live rates are being fetched correctly and reflect appropriate costs based on product dimensions and weights.

Looking for more details or ready to get started?
Visit the app page to explore features and pricing.

Shopify Multi Carrier Shipping Label App