What’s Changing
1. HAZMAT declarations are mandatory. Undeclared or mislabeled hazardous materials (lithium batteries, aerosols, flammables, etc.) can trigger a $50 noncompliance fee, plus additional handling fees depending on service type. Always declare HAZMAT accurately before generating your label.
2. Stricter enforcement on parcel dimensions and weight USPS is expanding its requirement that mailers report accurate length, width, and height (and weight) in the shipment manifest for Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select. This rollout has two phases:
- Phase One (effective July 12, 2026): USPS begins requiring accurate dimensions in the manifest for all applicable parcels. A Dimension Noncompliance fee (currently up to $3 USD) continues to apply to parcels over 1 cubic foot or 22 inches in length when dimensions or weight are omitted or inaccurate - in addition to any resulting postage adjustment.
- Phase Two (tentatively early 2027): USPS will move to fully automated detection and enforcement across all applicable dimensions, with additional protocols still to be announced.
Why It Matters
Inaccurate package details are one of the most common - and most avoidable - sources of unexpected shipping fees. As USPS tightens enforcement, customers who don’t submit accurate dimensions, weight, or HAZMAT status will see more frequent adjustments and penalties on affected shipments.
How ShipSavvy Is Helping
To help you avoid these fees before they hit:
- Accurate data capture at checkout: Our portal now prompts for precise package dimensions, weight, and HAZMAT status before a label is generated, reducing the chance of inaccurate or missing manifest data.
- HAZMAT flagging: If your shipment includes commonly regulated items, we’ll flag it so you can confirm and properly declare it upfront.
- Proactive customer communication: We’re notifying affected customers ahead of the July 12 effective date so you have time to adjust your workflows.
Action item: Double-check that your package dimensions, weight, and HAZMAT declarations are accurate before submitting shipments on or after July 12, 2026, to avoid unnecessary fees.
About ShipSavvy
ShipSavvy is a Canadian-built shipping platform designed for growing eCommerce brands.
Access major carriers through a single account, manage shipments from one dashboard, and simplify cross-border logistics with SavvyBroker customs support.
If you have any questions or need help getting started, our team is here for you. Thanks for shipping with ShipSavvy, we’ll be back soon with more updates.