Purpose: In this article we explain the surcharges that will apply to your shipment if it does not comply with Colissimo's shipping conditions.
Fuel surcharge
Colissimo applies a fuel surcharge to all parcels. Depending on the means of transport used to route the package, the carrier will apply the surcharge for air transport or road transport. These rates change monthly. See the road transport and the air transport fuel adjustment ratios here.
Click here to see the fuel type per shipping method
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Colissimo Domicile, Service Points & Delivery Hub Armée: Road
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Colissimo Overseas: Air
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Colissimo International Home: Road for EU destination– Air for Non-EU
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Colissimo International Service Point: Road for EU destination
Click here for more general information about fuel surcharges.
Volumetric weight
The volumetric weight is applied to parcels to be shipped internationally and to French Overseas Territories by air. La Poste will apply the price for volumetric weight if the latter is greater than the actual weight of the parcel.
How to calculate the volumetric weight of a parcel?
Colissimo calculates volumetric weight according to this formula: length x width x height (in cm)/ 5000. At Sendcloud we have developed a calculator that will help you calculate the volumetric weight of your parcel and avoid surcharges. Click here for more information and to use the tool.
Billing of Surcharges for Exceeding Weight Limits
When the actual or volumetric weight of a parcel exceeds the limit allowed by the selected shipping method, the carrier applies additional charges.
How do French carriers apply these surcharges?
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Initial label billing
- When a user creates a shipping label, the rate is based on the selected weight range.
- Example: Method X 0-1 kg for a 0.5 kg parcel.
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Carrier weight verification
- Upon pickup, the carrier weighs the parcel or applies volumetric weight calculation (L x W x H / 5000).
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Billing adjustment if the weight is higher
- If the actual or volumetric weight exceeds the selected range, an additional charge is applied.
- Example: If the parcel weighs 1.5 kg (or if its volumetric weight is 1.5 kg), the billing is adjusted to the next weight bracket (Method X 1-2 kg).
- Impact on fuel surcharge
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- In some cases, the recalculated weight also affects the fuel surcharge, which is adjusted accordingly.
Why do users see two charges?
This process may appear as a double charge, but it consists of two separate steps:
✅ First charge: Based on the declared weight when creating the shipping label.
✅ Second charge: Adjustment based on the actual or volumetric weight of the parcel.
The carrier does not charge twice for the same label but applies a correction to reflect the final weight.
Non-standard parcel - 6.70 EUR
This surcharge applies to all parcels that do not meet the characteristics of a standard parcel defined in Colissimo's terms and conditions and require special handling.
Applicable in particular for parcels with the following dimensions: L + W + H > 150 cm (with a maximum of 200 cm). This is often applied to unstable boxes and unusual shapes.
Non-compliant packaging or labeling - 6.50 EUR
This surcharge applies to parcels with labeling or packaging anomalies identified by Colissimo’s platforms. These issues require manual handling and incur additional charges.
Common reasons for the surcharge:
- Incorrect or unreadable labeling: Labels positioned on edges or those difficult to scan.
- Small parcels: Labels that are difficult to read or improperly placed.
- Rolls or tubes: Shipments in these shapes without stabilizing sleeves.
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Packaging defects: Poorly conditioned or unstable parcels.
- Inclusion of inappropriate elements like strings, plastic, or straps.
How to avoid the surcharge:
- Ensure labels are flat and fully visible on the parcel.
- Use compliant, stable packaging free of additional elements that may trigger surcharges.
Unacceptable parcel- 65.20 EUR
An unacceptable parcel must not be handed over to Colissimo. For all delivery methods, items that do not meet the conditions for mechanized parcels or non-mechanized parcels defined in the general conditions are not accepted in the postal network.
A parcel is not accepted for the following reasons: weight, packaging, dimensions.
If you try to ship an unacceptable parcel, the carrier will charge you a surcharge.
No EDI received before midnight on the day of collection/shipment- 0.65 EUR
Colissimo will apply a surcharge if they don't receive the EDI before midnight on the day of collection or if they do not receive it at all.
Missing address - 0.65 EUR
If the delivery address was not provided, Colissimo will charge you a surcharge.
Postcode/City problem - 3.20 EUR
The carrier will apply this surcharge to your shipment if the postcode and city or town do not match.
Missing e-mail or telephone number - 0.65 EUR
If the email or telephone number of the receiver is missing, Colissimo will apply a surcharge. An e-mail address or a telephone number must always be provided.
International surcharge - from 2.20 EUR to 6.20 EUR
Destination surcharge from 4.90 EUR to 6.20 EUR
This surcharge applies to all parcels shipped to one of the three destinations:
United kingdom: 5.10 EUR
Unites States: 5.20 EUR
China: 6.20 EUR
Double carrier surcharge 2.20 EUR
Customs non-compliance - 15.20 EUR
This surcharge applies to parcels shipped to an international destination with a carrier partner.
Decarbonization surcharge - 0.03 EUR
Effective July 15th, 2024, Colissimo will implement a new surcharge of €0.03 per parcel. This charge applies to all parcels, including domestic, international, and overseas shipments.
Why This Surcharge?
The decarbonization contribution is a key part of Colissimo’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. By incorporating this small fee, Colissimo aims to accelerate its efforts towards a more eco-friendly parcel delivery system. This initiative supports the transition to greener logistics, benefiting both the economy and public health.
We appreciate your understanding and support as we work towards a sustainable future.
Partenaire Postale Surcharge - 2.20 EUR
Colissimo is introducing a "Partenaire Postale" surcharge of 2 EUR for all packages shipped to the following countries:
- Germany
- Austria
- Italy
- Luxembourg
This surcharge applies universally to packages destined for these locations. Through a special agreement with local postal services, Colissimo ensures that packages are delivered with priority, which is the rationale behind the additional 2 EUR fee.
To avoid the supplements mentioned above, please read carefully Colissimo's terms and conditions of sale and make sure that your packages meet the necessary requirements.