How to Avoid A Residential Surcharge—and Ensure You Pick the Right Service

If you run a business from home, it might seem logical to select a B2B (Business-to-Business) or B2C (Business-to-Consumer) service for your shipments. After all, you’re operating a business, right?

However, there's a critical distinction that couriers make between residential and commercial addresses, and misunderstanding this can lead to unexpected surcharges.

In this article, we will explore the correct qualifications for a B2C or B2B service, the potential costs associated with making this mistake, and provide practical steps to help you select the right shipping service for your specific needs.

The Issue: Residential Surcharges From A Booking

When a courier arrives to pick up your parcel, one of the first things they verify is whether the pickup location is residential or commercial. If you’ve selected a B2C or B2B service but the pickup or delivery is for a residential address, the courier will impose a residential surcharge. Unfortunately, this additional cost will be passed on to you, as we receive the invoice and need to forward it to you.

Why Home-Based Businesses Don’t Qualify for B2B or B2C Services

We understand some of you have a business that you operate from home, however, this isn't enough to qualify for a B2B or B2C service.

Couriers define B2B or B2C services strictly for pickups or destinations at commercial properties, such as:

• A storefront: A traditional retail space open to the public.
• Warehouse: A storage space for inventory and shipments, typically in a commercial area.
• Commercial Property: Any building or location used primarily for business purposes, excluding residences.

If your address doesn’t fit one of these categories, selecting a B2B or B2C service can lead to additional fees, delays, and complications in your shipping process.

How to Ensure You Select the Right Service

To avoid these surcharges and ensure your shipments go smoothly, it’s essential to select the correct service for your needs. Here are some steps to help you make the right choice:

1. Check the Details Before You Book: After entering your parcel details on our platform and viewing the list of quotes, click the ‘information icon’ for the courier service you're interested in using. This will show you all the essential details, including whether the service is exclusively for B2B or B2C shipments.



2. Assess Your Pickup or Destination: Before selecting a B2B or B2C service, consider whether your pickup or destination qualifies as a commercial property. If it's your home or a residential building, opt for a service that accommodates residential pickups.



3. When in Doubt, Reach Out: If you're unsure whether your address qualifies for a B2B pickup, don’t hesitate to contact our customer service team. We're available via live chat, phone, and email to help guide you through the process and ensure you choose the right option.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between residential and B2B or B2C services is crucial for seamless shipping. By choosing the correct service, you avoid unnecessary surcharges, prevent delays, and ensure your packages are picked up and delivered as expected. Always double-check the service details and, when in doubt, consult with our team—we're here to help you make the best shipping choices for your business.