What is an Adjustment for Postage Verification (APV) and How Does It Impact Your Shipping?

Shipping can be one of the most challenging aspects of running a small business, especially when unexpected costs arise. One such cost is the USPS Adjustment for Postage Verification (APV). If you’ve shipped a package recently and received an email about an APV, you might be wondering what it is, why it happened, and what you can do about it. Let’s break it down.

What is an Adjustment for Postage Verification (APV)?

An APV is a process conducted by the United States Postal Service (USPS) to ensure that the postage paid for a package accurately reflects the package’s size, weight, and service level. If USPS determines that a package’s postage does not cover the actual shipping costs—due to discrepancies in weight, dimensions, or packaging type—they issue an adjustment. This can result in additional charges or, in some cases, a refund.

Why Does USPS Issue APVs?

The most common reasons USPS issues an APV include:
– Weight Discrepancies: If your package weighs more than you declared during the label creation process, USPS will adjust the shipping cost based on the actual weight.
– Incorrect Dimensions: If your package dimensions (length, width, or height) are incorrect or missing, USPS will measure the package and adjust the postage accordingly.
– Packaging Type: Envelopes or flat mailers exceeding 18″ in any direction or 3″ in height must be classified as “Box or Hard Packaging.” Failure to do so can result in an APV.
– Service Discrepancies: If the package service level chosen (e.g., First-Class vs. Priority Mail) does not match the package’s actual characteristics, an APV will adjust to reflect the correct service.

How Can APVs Affect Your Shipping Costs?

When an APV is filed, USPS may charge you more if they determine that the postage paid is less than required for the actual package dimensions or weight. Alternatively, if the original postage paid was too high, you may receive a refund. Here’s how it works:

–You May Be Charged More: USPS might charge you for the additional postage required, reflecting the actual shipping costs. This is usually the case when the package weighs more than expected or is larger than declared.

– You May Receive a Refund: In cases where you overpaid for postage, USPS might issue a refund after recalculating based on the accurate details.

How Can You Avoid APVs?

Accurate package measurements and weight declarations are the best way to avoid APV adjustments. Here are a few tips to help prevent unexpected costs:

1. Weigh Your Packages Accurately: Use a digital postal scale to ensure your package’s weight is correctly entered when creating a shipping label.
2. **Measure Your Packages Properly**: For non-flat mailers or envelopes, be sure to measure the length, width, and height, especially if they exceed 18″ or 3″ in height.
3. Choose the Right Packaging Type: If your package is bulky or exceeds flat mailer restrictions, always select “Box or Hard Packaging” and enter all three dimensions.
4. Verify Service Levels: Ensure that the service level chosen during label creation matches the actual package’s weight and size requirements.

What to Do if You Receive an APV

If you’ve received a USPS APV and believe the adjustment is incorrect, you can file a dispute. To do so, you’ll need the following:

– Tracking Number: The unique number associated with your package.
– EasyPost Package Dispute ID: This can be found in your shipment invoice report or through webhooks.
– Reason for Dispute:  Provide a clear explanation for why you believe the adjustment was made in error.

You can email these details to VerifyPostageHelp@usps.gov. Once the dispute is processed, you’ll receive a notification from EasyPost regarding the outcome, and any eligible refunds will be credited back to your account.

How Thryft Ship Helps

At Thryft Ship, we understand how frustrating APVs can be, especially when you’re trying to manage shipping for your small business. Our platform makes it easy to ensure you’re providing the right package information from the start, helping you avoid costly APV adjustments. We also send you notifications when an APV occurs, so you’re always informed and can take quick action if needed.

Wrapping Up

While APVs can be an unexpected cost, understanding the reasons behind them and taking steps to prevent them can make a big difference in your shipping process. By staying on top of your package dimensions, weight, and service levels, you can avoid many common pitfalls that lead to APVs.

If you ever run into issues or have questions about an APV adjustment, Thryft Ship is here to help. Reach out to us anytime for support!