Common Shipping Errors and Solutions

Encountering errors when creating shipping labels can be frustrating. This guide covers the most common errors and how to resolve them quickly.

Address Validation Errors

Error: "Address Not Found" or "Invalid Address"

Causes:

• Typos in street name or number
• Incomplete address information
• New construction not yet in carrier database
• PO Box formatted incorrectly

Solutions:

1. Double-check spelling of street name and city
2. Verify ZIP code matches city/state
3. Use USPS ZIP Code Lookup tool to verify
4. Try abbreviations (St. vs Street, Ave vs Avenue)
5. For new addresses, add apartment/unit number
6. Contact recipient to confirm address details

Error: "Suite/Apartment Number Required"

Solution: Add the apartment or suite number to Address Line 2. Some multi-unit buildings require this information.

Error: "Mismatched ZIP Code"

Solution: The ZIP code doesn't match the city/state. Use the USPS ZIP Code Lookup or verify with the recipient. Update to the correct ZIP code.

Package Dimension Errors

Error: "Package Exceeds Size Limits"

USPS Limits: Combined length + girth cannot exceed 108 inches

FedEx/UPS Limits: Vary by service, typically 108-165 inches

Solutions:

• Measure package accurately: Length (longest side) + 2×Width + 2×Height
• Use freight shipping for oversized packages
• Repackage into multiple smaller boxes
• Select a different carrier with higher limits

Error: "Weight Exceeds Service Limit"

Service Limits:

• USPS First Class: 15.999 oz maximum
• USPS Priority Mail: 70 lbs maximum
• FedEx/UPS Ground: 150 lbs maximum

Solutions:

• Verify actual weight with a scale
• Split into multiple packages if possible
• Use freight services for very heavy items
• Select carrier with higher weight limits

Payment and Billing Errors

Error: "Insufficient Funds"

Solution:

1. Check your account balance in PostageEasy dashboard
2. Add funds via credit card, PayPal, or ACH
3. Enable auto-recharge to prevent future issues

Error: "Payment Method Declined"

Causes:

• Credit card expired
• Insufficient credit limit
• Bank declined transaction
• Incorrect CVV or billing address

Solutions:

• Update credit card information
• Contact your bank to authorize the charge
• Try a different payment method
• Verify billing address matches card

Carrier-Specific Errors

USPS Error: "Hazardous Materials Not Allowed"

Prohibited Items: Perfumes, nail polish, lithium batteries (standalone), aerosols, flammable liquids

Solution: Use FedEx or UPS with proper hazmat documentation, or remove prohibited items

FedEx Error: "Invalid Account Number"

Solution: PostageEasy should handle this automatically. If you see this error, contact support as there may be an issue with your account integration.

UPS Error: "Unable to Calculate Rates"

Causes: Usually temporary API issues or service outages

Solution:

• Wait 5-10 minutes and try again
• Clear browser cache and cookies
• Try a different carrier temporarily

Printing Errors

Error: "Unable to Print Label" or Blank Label

Solutions:

1. Check printer connection and power
2. Verify correct printer is selected
3. Update printer drivers
4. Try downloading PDF and printing manually
5. Clear print queue
6. Restart printer and computer

Error: "Barcode Not Scanning"

Solutions:

• Ensure label is not wrinkled or damaged
• Print at 100% scale (no shrinking/enlarging)
• Use high-quality printer settings
• Replace printer ink/toner if faded
• For thermal printers, check label alignment

International Shipping Errors

Error: "Customs Information Required"

Solution: International shipments require customs declarations including:

• Description of contents
• Value of each item
• Country of origin
• HS tariff codes (for some countries)
• Purpose (gift, merchandise, documents, etc.)

Error: "Country Not Supported"

Solution: Some carriers don't ship to all countries. Try:

• Different carrier (USPS has broadest international coverage)
• Verify country name is correct (some have official vs. common names)
• Check if there are current shipping restrictions to that country

API and Integration Errors

Error: "API Authentication Failed"

Solution:

1. Verify API keys in your integration settings
2. Regenerate API keys if compromised
3. Check API request format matches documentation
4. Contact PostageEasy support for API issues

General Troubleshooting Tips

When All Else Fails:

1. Clear browser cache: Sometimes helps with display issues
2. Try different browser: Rule out browser-specific problems
3. Check PostageEasy status page: Verify no system outages
4. Contact support: Provide tracking number, error message, and screenshots

Prevention Tips:

• Save frequently used addresses in address book (pre-validated)
• Use a postal scale for accurate weights
• Measure packages carefully before purchasing labels
• Keep account balance funded to avoid payment delays
• Test printer settings before high-volume printing

Getting Additional Help

If you continue experiencing issues:

• Live Chat: Available during business hours on PostageEasy dashboard
• Email Support: support@postageeasy.com
• Phone Support: Check your account dashboard for phone number
• Knowledge Base: Browse additional articles and video tutorials