I purchased a 20X20X12 box for shipping at Kinkos/FedEx ($3.50). I obtained a quote for the shipping based on estimated weight. I later verified the weight and used the box size to verify the shipping value on the website before shipping.
When I went to ship the box, the clerk took a tape measure and measured the FedEx box, which was clearly labeled as to its size. The box was filled with proper compressible dunnage and was square sided. The top and bottom of the box were taped properly, with the tabs at the sides of the box, parallel to it. The box was sold as 20X20X12.
The clerk told me that he had to charge me for a 21X21X13 because it was oversized. He quoted me a much higher price than he had originally, much more than 50% higher. I told him that he sold me the box and he quoted me the shipping value.
I explained that I am a manufacturing engineer and have created packaging procedures and instructions. I explained that this box is packaged in accordance with FedEx policy and manufacturing standards used all over the world.
The clerk told me that the "box had stretched." That is when I told him that he knows nothing about what he is saying. I showed him the alignment of the box and the straight sides. I showed him that the box is square. I explained that cardboard does not just "stretch" along bent corners where he measured. I explained that the box is FedEx standard and size labeled with the FedEx logo. It is the size it was sold as, or it is fraud to sell it as such.
The clerk became aggressive and was not willing to rate the box as it is labeled. I told him that I would be sure to list this issue in every online resource I could, to let everyone know that FedEx/Kinkos is committing fraud.
I tried to deal with FedEx by phone regarding this. They just told me that on the phone it is my word against the clerk's as to the box (you have to be kidding!). They were not willing to give instruction to anyone regarding billing practice and were unwilling to let me talk to a supervisor about this.
Do not use FedEx. USPS is about 25% cheaper on most shipments to begin with!
Use USPS or UPS. I never had any issues with them. At least if they sell you a box, they will use that size for cost.
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