guide · 2 min
Optimize Shipping with Parcel Audits
Parcel audits are essential for identifying billing errors, overcharges, and service failures in your shipping invoices. By auditing your parcels, you can recover lost revenue and improve operational efficiency.
A parcel audit involves systematically reviewing your carrier invoices to identify discrepancies such as incorrect charges for dimensional weight, duplicate fees, or refunds for service failures. Audits typically focus on key data points like billed weight vs. actual weight, delivery time compliance, and surcharges. Tools or third-party services can automate the process, generating claims directly with carriers like DHL, DPD, and GLS to recover funds. Regular audits ensure you're only paying for what you use and help optimize your shipping strategy.
What is a parcel audit?
A parcel audit is a process of thoroughly reviewing shipping invoices to identify and claim refunds for billing errors, overcharges, or service failures, ensuring accurate costs.
Which errors can a parcel audit detect?
Parcel audits detect errors like incorrect dimensional weight charges, duplicate billing, late deliveries, and invalid surcharges, among others.
How does dimensional weight impact shipping costs?
Dimensional weight is calculated using the package's volume and a carrier-specific divisor. If billed incorrectly, it can lead to higher charges than the actual weight.
Can I claim refunds for late deliveries?
Yes, many carriers like DHL and DPD offer refunds for late deliveries under their service guarantees. A parcel audit flags these instances for claims.
Do parcel audits work with carriers like DHL, DPD, and GLS?
Yes, parcel audits are compatible with major carriers like DHL, DPD, and GLS. Each carrier has specific claim processes, which an audit system or provider can handle efficiently.