USPS uses an Automated Package Verification system (APV, for short). APV means the USPS will verify that all shipments match the details on the label, including:
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Weight
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Dimension
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Mail Class
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Packaging
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Origin Zip Code
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Destination Zip Code
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Postage Paid
Prior to APV, improperly applied specifications would result in a shipment being returned or, in some cases, delivery charges being billed to the recipient. With APV, the USPS will instead deliver the package but then issue cost adjustments back to your postal account balance. For USPS shipments through ShipStation, this means the adjustment will be automatically deducted from the account used to ship the package.
APV can apply to any domestic package shipped via USPS. APV excludes letters, large envelopes, certified mail, and international shipments.
These adjustments apply to both overcharged and undercharged shipments, making for a more efficient shipping process with the USPS. The goal for APV is to ensure all shipments are delivered on time.
Check Weight and Dimensions
To avoid rate adjustments, ensure that you are using appropriate dimensions and weight for the service. Postage providers may change weight and dimension requirements for service classes at any time.
Visit USPS Mail Classes Comparison for the most updated information.
ShipStation applies an Adjustment Processing Fee (APF) when discrepancies are identified by a carrier after label creation for the package. These discrepancies lead to additional administrative and other costs for ShipStation. The Adjustment Processing Fee helps to partially cover these costs so that we can continue to offer you competitive rates and reliable service.
Why would this adjustment happen?
Carrier adjustments are charges billed by the carrier after the parcel has shipped IF the carrier finds a difference in the rate that was initially paid versus what should have been charged. The APF is a processing fee in addition to the carrier surcharge for the difference in parcel dimensions or weight.
Some examples of scenarios that would incur an Adjustment Processing Fee include:
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Incorrect weight or dimensions: The actual weight (or dimensions) of a package exceeds what was input during the label creation process.
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Incorrect zones: The destination zone of the package is mislabeled, and that changes the routing and delivery.
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Incorrect package type: The package type selected during the label creation process does not match the physical characteristics of the package.
Adjustment Processing Fee (APF)
Discrepancies are typically identified by the carrier during the carrier routing process. If a discrepancy is identified on a package, you will be charged the carrier cost adjustment amount in addition to an Adjustment Processing Fee.
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Fee: 20% of the adjustment amount
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Minimum Charge: $0.50
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Maximum Charge: $5.00 per shipment
How you view adjustments will differ slightly and depend on whether you shipped the package using a Stamps.com account or USPS from ShipStation.
To view USPS adjustments for shipments using a standalone Stamps.com account:
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Log in to your Stamps.com account.
If you do not know your Stamps.com account credentials, contact ShipStation support to obtain your account name. You must then call Stamps.com at 1 (888) 434-0055 to reset your account password so you can log in and access your reports.
Requires Password Reset in ShipStation!
If you reset your Stamps.com account password on their website, you must then also reset the password ShipStation you use to access the account. To do this, go to
Settings > Shipping > Carriers, click the action menuand then click Reauthorize.
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Go to the Reports tab.
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Select Balances.
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Set the Report Type to Transactions.
To dispute an Automated Package Verification (APV) adjustment for a USPS shipment, you must visit their Automated Package Verification (APV) Dispute webpage.
When you provide the details for your APV notice, include the following:
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The Revenue Assurance ID (RAID)
The RAID used for APV disputes is the same as the Adjustment ID that is used for insurance claims.
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The last 4 digits of your Intelligent Mail® Package Barcode (IMPB) (The package's Tracking Number)
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The reason for disputing the adjustment (be as detailed as possible!)
To get the Adjustment ID for a ShipStation Carriers shipment, go to Settings > Shipping > Carriers and choose View Reports from the USPS Actions menu.
If the USPS requests more information, they'll contact you via email. Once a decision is made on the status of your dispute, they'll contact you via a forwarded email.