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What Does “Base & Fuel” Mean on My ShipTime Invoice?
If you see a Base & Fuel adjustment on your ShipTime invoice, it generally means the carrier changed the transportation cost of the shipment after it was processed.
The original shipping rate is based on the shipment information entered when the label is created. Carriers may later verify the package details while the shipment moves through their network. If the verified information differs from what was originally entered, the final carrier charge may change.
What does Base & Fuel include?
The base charge is the transportation cost associated with moving the shipment using the selected carrier and service.
The fuel surcharge is an additional carrier charge that is generally calculated in relation to the applicable transportation charges.
If the carrier changes the underlying transportation charge, the related fuel amount may also change.
Why might my Base & Fuel amount change?
Common reasons can include:
Weight or dimension changes
Carriers routinely weigh and measure packages as they move through their network.
If the carrier records a higher actual or dimensional weight than what was entered when the shipment was created, the billable weight may increase, resulting in a higher transportation charge.
To help reduce these adjustments:
- weigh your package after it is fully packed
- measure the outside dimensions of the finished package
- include any bulges or irregular packaging when measuring
- do not rely only on dimensions printed on the box
- enter accurate shipment details before purchasing the label
Service or packaging corrections
A carrier may rebill a shipment if the packaging or service used does not match the shipment information originally provided.
Carrier-branded packaging can also have specific service requirements, so make sure the package type you select in ShipTime matches the packaging you are actually using.
Return to sender
If a shipment is returned to the sender, the carrier may assess additional transportation charges for the return movement.
These charges can sometimes appear similar to the original shipping cost, but the amount varies by carrier, service, destination, and reason for the return.
Can other adjustment charges appear on the same invoice?
Yes.
A carrier may also apply other charges after a shipment has been processed, such as:
- address correction
- residential delivery
- delivery area or remote-area surcharges
- additional delivery attempts
- special handling or additional handling
- oversized or non-standard package charges
- duties, taxes, or customs-related charges on international shipments
These charges may appear as separate adjustment lines rather than being included directly in Base & Fuel.
For international charges, see How Do Duties and Taxes Work in ShipTime?
Why are adjustments applied after the shipment is created?
The rate displayed when you create a shipment is based on the information available at that time.
The carrier’s final invoice is generated after the shipment has moved through its network and may reflect verified weight, dimensions, service details, delivery conditions, or other applicable charges.
If the carrier’s final billing differs from the original shipment information, the difference may be passed through to your ShipTime account as an adjustment.
What should I do if I believe the adjustment is incorrect?
First, review the shipment details and compare them with the adjustment information shown on your invoice.
If you believe the carrier adjustment is incorrect, contact our Heroic Support™ team with your ShipID and the adjustment details. We can review the charge and determine whether additional information or a carrier dispute may be appropriate.