UPS Third Party Billing (2024)

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UPS Third Party Billing (1)
  • Written byAlex Dolce
  • Published onDecember 29, 2023
  • Time to read9 minutes
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Introduction

If you use UPS third-party billing or are thinking about doing so, you likely, at one point, have wondered what it’s all about or how it works. Well, you’re in luck. Today, we’re talking all things UPS and their billing options—a strategic approach that puts the financial responsibilities of shipping costs on another party. So if you need help with third-party billing or are just curious about it, join us as we go over what it is, how it works, and uncover why businesses choose to use this helpful arrangement.

Getting to the Basics: What Exactly is UPS Third-Party Billing?

UPS third-party billing is a fantastic shipping method that allows a third party to pay a package’s shipping fees. Basically, they’ve got your shipping costs covered.

For a more visual sense of what third-party billing is, picture three companies; “Company A”, “Company B” and “Company C”. Company A needs to send a package to Company B, but Company C steps in to cover the shipping costs. This is where UPS third-party billing steps onto the logistics stage.

The Cast of Characters: A Simple Example

Here’s a simple outline of Third Party Billing to set up for the other parts of this blog:

  1. Shipper (Company A): This company starts the shipping process. Within this company, they decide to use UPS as the preferred carrier for the delivery.
  1. Recipient (Company B): This company waits for the arrival of the package, not fully aware of all the steps going on behind the shipping scene.
  1. Third-Party (Company C): Finally, Company C generously agrees to take on the financial responsibility of the shipping costs.

So, with this visual and example in mind, let’s move on to how this whole third-party billing thing is put into play.

Unraveling the Mechanism: How Does UPS Third-Party Billing Work?

In short, this billing system is super sleek. This is all because of how the billing information is structured. So, rather than invoicing Company A (the shipper) or Company B (the recipient), UPS directs the charges to the account of the third party—Company C. It’s like having a friend pick up the dinner tab, but in the context of shipping logistics.

Why Opt for UPS Third-Party Billing?

Now, let’s explore why businesses might choose UPS third-party billing as part of their logistics strategy:

In this scenario, Company C engages in a business transaction with Company A. So purchases a range of products, takes charge of logistics, including shipping costs, streamlines the process, and allows for comprehensive control.

  • Cost Distribution and Collaboration:

In this scenario, Company B benefits from the package. Then, Company C, as the third party, generously covers the shipping. This arrangement does a lot of essential things. These include facilitating clear separation of expenses and fostering collaboration and equitable cost distribution among involved parties.

Navigating the Landscape of Third-Party Billing: Important Tips and Considerations

Before setting sail into the world of UPS third-party billing, it’s essential to keep a few key things in mind:

  • Explore UPS Guidelines: First, UPS gives out a large set of rules and procedures for third-party billing. So, get familiar with these guidelines and/or engage with their customer service. Therefore, this ensures a smooth transaction.
  • Mind the Fees and Requirements: Depending on your shipment type and the parties involved, there might be additional add-ons. These include fees or specific requirements that may be associated with third-party billing. Therefore, it’s helpful to understand these before shipping to prevent any surprises in the billing process.

Diving Deeper: The Versatility of UPS Third-Party Billing

Overall, UPS third-party billing isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. Therefore, this allows businesses to tailor the process to their specific needs. Here are some examples:

  • Billing to the Recipient’s Account: In specific scenarios, the third party might want to bill the shipping costs directly to the recipient’s UPS account. In this case, it can be advantageous when the recipient is responsible for covering shipping expenses but wants a third party to manage logistics.
  • Multiple Third Parties: In this example, there’s a complex business transaction involving several entities. Therefore, UPS third-party billing accommodates scenarios where multiple third-party works to cover shipping costs. Overall, this provides flexibility in intricate logistics arrangements.

A Final Note

Now, you know much more about UPS third-party billing. With this knowledge, you’re well-prepared to navigate the logistics landscape, especially if you ever need a third-party for billing.

As an essential final tip, consult UPS resources, stay informed about guidelines, and collaborate with all involved parties. Whether you’re making a straightforward transaction or navigating the complexities of multiple third parties, UPS third-party billing is a versatile tool that empowers businesses to navigate the world of shipping logistics with ease. Happy shipping, and may your packages reach their destinations with the efficiency of a well-executed logistics plan!

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UPS Third Party Billing (2024)

FAQs

How does UPS 3rd party billing work? ›

Consequently, in the event of non-payment by the consignee or a third party, all charges will apply to the shipper. UPS accepts shipments for 3rd party billing (subject to a fee), provided the third party has a valid UPS account number and agrees to allow the charges.

What is the UPS third party billing surcharge? ›

How much is the UPS Third Party Billing Fee? The UPS Third Party Billing Fee varies depending on your location and the shipping service you use. As of 2021, the fee typically ranges from $19 to $27 per shipment, with higher fees for international shipments.

What does 3rd party billing mean for shipping? ›

Third-party freight charges are those paid by… well, a third party. That means someone other than the sender or the consignee. That could mean for instance that a company pays for something to be delivered from a supplier direct to the customer. This is written as TPB – Third-Party Bill.

Can you use someone else's UPS account? ›

To schedule a shipment using someone else's UPS account number, you can either use the UPS website or contact UPS customer service.

What is the golden rule regarding third party billing? ›

According to the golden rule for third-party billing, there is no obligation to guarantee coverage or any other liability in the event that coverage lapses due to the third party's failure to submit payment by the due date. Simply put, if a charge is not documented, you can not bill for it.

How does third party billing work? ›

Third-party billing is a form of billing in which an intermediary or third party provider, such as a payment service provider, handles the billing and payment between a customer and the company, also called sub acquiring.

What happens if you don't pay UPS fees? ›

What Happens if You Don't Pay? Brokerage fees are a requirement for delivery, and often times, duties and taxes have already been covered by the courier. If the receiver does not pay brokerage fees, the courier may bill the shippers account, or abandon the shipment.

Why is UPS charging me a fee? ›

UPS may charge a fee for residential deliveries to help offset these costs. Package Size and Handling Requirements: Packages that are unusually large, heavy, or require special handling may incur additional fees to cover the extra resources needed to transport and deliver them safely.

How much is UPS billing adjustment fee? ›

It costs $1 per package subject to a shipping charge correction or 6% of the total amount of shipping charge corrections, whichever amount is higher for the applicable invoice period. This fee does not apply to import shipments.

How does 3PL billing work? ›

In the activity-based pricing model, the 3PL system charges based on specific activities or tasks performed. Each service or activity is assigned a predetermined rate, and the client is billed accordingly for the quantity or volume of each activity completed.

What does payment by third party mean? ›

A third-party payment processor is an entity that enables merchants to accept credit card payments, online payments, and other cashless payment methods without setting up their own merchant accounts. Examples of popular third-party payment processors include Square, PayPal, Stripe, and Stax.

How does 3rd party shipping work? ›

Third-party logistics providers will pick, pack, and ship goods on your behalf. Some 3PL providers might also offer additional services. For example, some 3PL providers offer custom packaging and sender labels. This can be valuable if you're building a brand and want to use a unique design or logo you developed.

What is the UPS 3rd party billing fee? ›

Third Party Billing Service Fee

A 5.0% fee applies to any shipment billed to a Third Party, and will be charged to the payer.

How to use UPS 3rd party billing? ›

When processing a shipment that will be billed to a Third Party, select Bill Transportation to Third Party on the Service tab and enter the third party's address and account number in the Third Party Address window. Choose OK to close the window and continue processing the shipment.

How does UPS bill my account work? ›

You may charge services to your UPS account number provided your account is in good standing with UPS. You agree to pay for all charges and fees assessed to your account using Bill My Account. The Bill My Account service is available only at participating UPS Third Party Retailer locations and UPS Customer Centers.

How does third party shipping work? ›

Third-party logistics providers will pick, pack, and ship goods on your behalf. Some 3PL providers might also offer additional services. For example, some 3PL providers offer custom packaging and sender labels. This can be valuable if you're building a brand and want to use a unique design or logo you developed.

How are UPS claims paid? ›

The quickest way to receive payment for your claim is providing us with your bank account number and Bank Identification Code, Sort Code or Routing Number when filing your claim. Note: You can always add your bank information even after filing your claim.

What happens if you don't pay UPS invoice? ›

If your invoice is still not paid by the next invoicing period, they reserve the right to charge a late fee on all unpaid balances, which means a 6% fee on the total unpaid amount, including the late fee. They can also charge collection fees.

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