
As an e-commerce seller, you know how crucial accurate package tracking is for customer satisfaction and business success. According to the USPS, automated package verification helps ensure that packages are delivered to the right address.
The USPS offers a free service called Verify Postage at help.usps.com, which can save you time and money by providing real-time postage rates and package tracking information. This service is available 24/7.
By using Verify Postage, you can avoid common mistakes that lead to package delays or lost shipments.
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USPS Automated Package Verification System
The USPS Automated Package Verification (APV) system is now in effect, impacting all SmartShyp customers. This change affects how USPS handles shipments with under- and overpaid postage.
The APV system identifies underpaid packages, notifies the sender, and automatically deducts the amount of underpaid postage to ensure prompt delivery and better customer service for all parties.
If your SmartShyp meter doesn't have enough postage to cover the underpaid amount, it will be topped up by $20 using the credit or debit card on file.
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You're responsible for ensuring that the postage paid for a shipment is sufficient to cover the service requested and that the package dimensions and weight provided match the physical shipment.
Common mistakes that can trigger APV corrections include:
- Package weight and/or dimensions entered during label printing are different than the actual shipment
- No package dimensions entered
- Flat Rate label is used with a non-Flat Rate box
- Improper service is used (for example, First Class label on 1lb+ package)
- Packaging isn’t included when entering information (i.e. only the item weight and dimensions are entered)
If you dispute a charge billed through APV, email USPS at [email protected] with your IMpb (Tracking) Number, Revenue Assurance ID, detailed reason for the dispute, and contact information.
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USPS APV Changes
The USPS Automated Package Verification (APV) system is now in effect, impacting all SmartShyp customers.
APV identifies underpaid packages, notifies the sender, and automatically deducts the amount of underpaid postage to ensure prompt delivery and better customer service for all parties.
Packages will be scanned and weighed to check for correct postage paid based on size, weight, destination, etc.
If the amount is underpaid, your SmartShyp meter will be charged to cover the difference.
If the amount is overpaid, a credit is issued to your meter.

If there is not enough postage available in your meter, your meter will be topped up by $20 to cover the postage due using the credit or debit card you have on file.
Common reasons for underpaid postage include:
- Package weight and/or dimensions entered during label printing are different than the actual shipment
- No package dimensions entered
- Flat Rate label is used with a non-Flat Rate box
- Improper service is used (for example, First Class label on 1lb+ package)
- Packaging isn’t included when entering information (i.e. only the item weight and dimensions are entered)
If you dispute a charge billed through APV, you can email USPS at [email protected].
Your email should include the IMpb (Tracking) Number, Revenue Assurance ID, detailed reason for the dispute, and your contact information (name and email).
The USPS has up to 30 days after a package is shipped to issue an adjustment.
If you feel you were debited in error, you can dispute the charge with the USPS within 60 days of the notification.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I dispute an underpaid postage?
To dispute an underpaid postage, submit the required information to the APV Dispute Webform page at https://apvdisputes.usps.com. If you need help, contact your PC Postage Entity/Vendor for assistance.
What happens when the USPS seizes a package for counterfeit postage?
When the USPS seizes a package for counterfeit postage, it will be intercepted and disposed of, without being returned to the mail stream or reimbursing the shipper
Sources
- https://blog.smartshyp.com/usps-apv-in-effect-2019
- https://vipparcel.com/blog/news_alert_usps_automated_package_verification_apv_checks_%26_adjusts_shipping_costs
- https://support.ordoro.com/what-are-usps-automated-package-verification-apv/
- https://www.shipworks.com/blog/shipworks-to-support-usps-automated-package-verification/
- https://shippingeasy.com/blog/usps-apv-ecommerce-sellers/
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