Useful evidence links a particular sealed parcel to its AWB. Organize it at dispatch rather than reconstructing it after a charge appears. A scale reading without box dimensions may not explain a volumetric charge: document both and compare the courier’s slab rules before raising a dispute.
01Should I weigh the product or the packed parcel?
Weigh the final sealed parcel with its box, fillers, tape and invoice pouch. Use a level surface and a scale that reads small enough increments for your weight slab. Record the reading before printing the label. Product catalogue weight alone can understate what the courier actually handles.
02How should I measure parcel dimensions?
Measure the outside length, breadth and height of the sealed package in centimetres, including bulges. Use the widest points, not the product’s inner dimensions. For a soft mailer, measure after packing and sealing. Keep the measuring tape visible in photographs if you may need evidence later.
03What is volumetric weight?
Volumetric weight accounts for the space a parcel occupies. With a divisor of 5000, a 30 × 20 × 15 cm box has a volumetric weight of 1.8 kg. The courier generally bills the higher of actual and volumetric weight, then applies its weight slab. Confirm the divisor for your selected service.
04Which packing photographs should I keep?
Keep clear photos of the product, cushioning, sealed outer box, label, scale reading and each dimension with a measuring tape. Match the evidence to the order or AWB and keep original files. This makes a weight or damage review easier, but does not override the courier’s claim terms or deadlines.
05What should I do about an extra weight charge?
Compare the courier’s measured weight and dimensions with your sealed-parcel evidence and the service’s slab rules. Raise the dispute promptly with AWB, original photographs and measurements within the published dispute window. Follow its status in the panel and retain the written decision; do not submit altered photos or only the unpacked product’s weight.
Before your next shipment
- Photograph weight and all outer dimensions.
- Link original files to the AWB.
- Raise issues within the published window.
Examples are for planning. Your selected courier, booking quote and applicable policy determine the actual service and charges.