So given that I've had some issues with USPS lately and them not honoring signature requirement, but still charging for it, I thought I had it all figured out. I started using FedEx ground. The cost seemed similar enough and it seemed that at least if you choose to pay for direct signature that it will actually be required. I've been shipping this way for the last couple of month. Today I receive an email that states that the rate was adjusted for one of the packages that was delivered a week ago and sent about 2 weeks ago. The rate went up from $21.50 to $34.50, no other explanation was provided. I called FedEx customer service to find out what happened, when I eventually got to the customer representative, she told me that she doesn't have my invoice yet, but that it is most likely due to fuel charges and other expenses. She told me that FedEx doesn't give you final price when you pay and that there is a disclaimer that the quote and the label are just an estimate. She said "we can't charge you for fuel unless we know how much the fuel costs". Now, for one this is a very bizarre way to run a business, my price went up by more than 50% from what I thought it would be. I shipped a knife from Los Angeles to Albuquerque by FedEx ground..... I am lucky it wasn't plane fuel that I had to pay for. She also said to call back when the invoice will be ready since she doesn't really know what the extra is for. So I asked, "how do I know when the invoice is ready, would I get another email?" Nope, just should call after Oct 5, since that's when they are usually ready....
To me this is insane, if every package I sent with them this month goes up 50%, I'll pay a crap load of money just on the shipping. So, maybe I am wrong, but to me this is almost bait and switch tactic, disclaimer or not. If it went up a little I would maybe understand, but 50% seems excessive.
I guess I need to start using USPS again and hope for the best. They don't honor signature requirement at the moment, so that is a waste of money. Insurance with them I heard is impossible to get, especially for knives. UPS office is too far from me and just using UPS stores is a little iffy as they don't really provide any service, just a drop off/pick up location. DHL is too expensive......
To me this is insane, if every package I sent with them this month goes up 50%, I'll pay a crap load of money just on the shipping. So, maybe I am wrong, but to me this is almost bait and switch tactic, disclaimer or not. If it went up a little I would maybe understand, but 50% seems excessive.
I guess I need to start using USPS again and hope for the best. They don't honor signature requirement at the moment, so that is a waste of money. Insurance with them I heard is impossible to get, especially for knives. UPS office is too far from me and just using UPS stores is a little iffy as they don't really provide any service, just a drop off/pick up location. DHL is too expensive......
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