Are you shipping large, heavy, or irregularly shaped packages? If so, you may be racking up extra fees without realizing it – thanks to the Additional Handling Surcharge (AHS).
This fee is applied by both FedEx and UPS when a package requires special processing due to its size, weight, packaging, or handling requirements. And it’s not cheap – fees can reach up to $55 per package or more, especially during peak shipping seasons when secondary surcharges kick in.
Let’s break down what qualifies a package for Additional Handling.
What Triggers Additional Handling?
- Weight
- Domestic (Ground & Express): Surcharge applies to packages over 50 lbs.
- International Shipments: Threshold increases to over 70 lbs.
- Dimensions
Applies if any of the following are true:
- Longest side exceeds 48 inches.
- The second-longest side exceeds 30 inches.
- Combined Length + 2×Width + 2×Height > 105 inches.
- Packaging
Your shipment may be flagged if it:
- It isn’t fully encased in corrugated cardboard.
- Is wrapped in shrink wrap, soft plastic, or other non-standard materials.
- Has an irregular shape (e.g., mailing tubes, barrels, or cylinders).
- Non-Stackable Freight
- Items like drums, buckets, or pails that can’t be safely stacked may also be hit with this charge.
Peak Season Surcharges
During high-volume periods (typically Q4), carriers add Secondary or Peak AHS fees, compounding the cost of each qualifying package.
| Surcharge Type | Applies When |
| Primary AHS | Year-round, based on package characteristics |
| Secondary/Peak AHS | During peak demand seasons (e.g., holidays) |
What Shippers Can Do?
These fees can dramatically increase total parcel spend if not managed carefully. To reduce risk:
- Review weight and dimensions before shipping.
- Use standard-sized corrugated packaging.
- Avoid irregular shapes or soft materials.
- Consider repackaging when possible.
How nVision Global Can Help?
We analyze your shipment characteristics to:
- Identify repeat offenders triggering AHS.
- Recommend packaging adjustments.
- Minimize AHS fees through smarter logistics strategies.
Stop letting hidden surcharges drain your budget. Let us help you uncover and eliminate avoidable parcel costs.
Talk to a Parcel Cost Expert.