Additional Handling Surcharge
An additional handling surcharge is a per-package fee that UPS and FedEx charge for packages that need manual handling because of length, weight, or packaging, such as heavy cartons or items not fully encased in corrugated board.
Why it matters for ecommerce brands
It is commonly triggered by a longest side over 48 inches, a second-longest side over 30 inches, weight over 50 pounds, or non-corrugated packaging. Small changes in carton size or packaging can remove it entirely.
Common questions
- How do I avoid the additional handling surcharge?
- Keep packages below the carrier's length, side, and weight thresholds and ship in fully enclosed corrugated cartons rather than bags, tubes, or wrapped items. Check the current carrier service guide, since thresholds and criteria can change.
Cite this entry
"Additional Handling Surcharge." Fulfillment Lexicon, last reviewed October 16, 2026. https://fulfillment.wiki/glossary/additional-handling-surcharge/