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Getting wrong shipping charges because of incorrect weight can be super frustrating — especially for online sellers who ship multiple parcels daily. A small mistake can lead to higher shipping fees, unexpected adjustments, or even delays in delivery.
In this guide, we’ll explain why shipping weight errors happen, how couriers calculate actual vs. volumetric weight, and the exact steps you can take to avoid wrong charges and protect your shipping cost.
Contents
What Does “Shipping Weight Wrong Charge” Mean?
This happens when the courier weighs or measures your parcel and finds a different weight or size than what you entered during booking. When this happens, the courier may:
- Increase your shipping fee
- Apply an adjustment charge
- Hold or return the parcel
- Reject future shipments if repeated
Most weight errors are unintentional – but they are 100% preventable.
5 Common Reasons Why Shipping Weight Errors Happen
1. Incorrect Scale Readings
Some sellers use kitchen scales, old digital scales, or faulty devices that don’t show accurate weight. Even a small difference (like 0.1kg) can cause a different charge.
2. Not Measuring Volumetric Weight
Couriers don’t charge based only on actual weight. If your parcel is large but light, they use volumetric weight, which can be much higher than expected.
3. Extra Packing Materials
Bubble wrap, added boxes, or double-layer packaging may increase weight or dimensions after booking.
4. Courier Re-measurement Differences
Courier hubs use industrial-grade machines for weighing and scanning. Their readings are more precise, so if your measurement is inaccurate, the courier’s number wins.
5. Wrong Dimension Measurement
Not measuring the longest side, rounded corners, bulging areas, or uneven packaging can cause incorrect volumetric weight.
How Couriers Calculate Shipping Weight (Actual vs Volumetric)
Couriers in Malaysia use the higher value between:
If your pillow weighs 0.5kg but its volumetric weight is 4kg,
Then you will be charged 4kg.
This is why many people think they are “wrongly charged” — but it’s actually the volumetric calculation.
How to Avoid Shipping Weight Wrong Charges
Avoiding shipping weight wrong charges starts with accurate measurements. By using the right tools, packing efficiently, and double-checking your parcel’s weight and dimensions before booking, you can prevent unexpected fees and ensure your shipment is charged correctly every time.
Use an Accurate Scale
Invest in a proper digital parcel scale to avoid miscalculations.
Measure Dimensions Correctly
Measure all three sides of the parcel at their widest points. Round up to the nearest cm.
Pack Smart
Avoid oversized boxes and unnecessary padding. Use the smallest box/flyer that safely fits your item.
Double-check Before Booking
Measure, weigh, and confirm before purchasing your label.
Check Courier Volumetric Rules
Each courier has different formulas and size limits. Refer to EasyParcel’s courier guideline page before shipping.
How to Ship Items with EasyParcel
- Place the items in the small box.
- Wrap with bubble wrap so it doesn’t get scratched.
- If it’s a branded item, keep the original box inside.
- Seal the package with strong tape and fragile adhesive.
Check the weight with a scale- Measure the length, width and height
- Log in to your EasyParcel account.
- Enter the pickup and delivery address.
- Enter the weight and size of the package.
- Choose your courier service (J&T, DHL, Pos Laju).
- Add insurance if the item is expensive.
Wrong shipping weight charges can happen for many reasons, but most of the time, it comes down to incorrect measurements or misunderstanding volumetric weight. By measuring properly, using accurate tools, and understanding how couriers calculate charges, you can avoid unexpected fees and ship confidently.
With EasyParcel, you can make delivery simple, affordable, and efficient — helping your business grow smoothly. EasyParcel welcomes you with a FREE RM10 credit for your first shipment. Sign up today and start shipping smarter with EasyParcel!
FAQ: Shipping Weight Wrong Charges
1. Why was I charged more than the weight I entered?
This usually happens when the courier’s measurement shows a higher actual weight or volumetric weight than what you declared. Couriers always charge based on the higher value to match the space your parcel occupies.
2. What is volumetric weight and why does it affect my charges?
Volumetric weight is calculated using your parcel’s dimensions (L × W × H ÷ 5000). If your parcel is large but lightweight, the volumetric weight may be higher than the actual weight, resulting in a higher shipping charge.
3. What should I do if I believe the courier overcharged me?
Take photos of your parcel on a scale, measure all sides, and gather proof of packaging. Then contact the platform you used (e.g., EasyParcel) and submit the evidence along with your tracking number.
