Hi All -
Almost fell out of my chair 'other day! I know many of you run your businesses out of a "house", as I do. You may want' a look into this! MY UPS (freight-in) costs have always seemed high. Still, I've never questioned 'em in all these years. Until the other day! I received an order of printed business cards. The printing cost $20.25. The UPS (freight to me) was $13.74. I phoned the company to ask: why so much for shipping? Was shocked to learn: UPS has me registered as a "residential classification" - 'stead of a "business/commercial" drop. (a higher S&H cost to me.) Nothing the printing company could change; I'd have to contact UPS. Just realizing, this week, that ALL my suppliers have been shipping to me using this residential designation - all these years! (Yipes!) Being told by UPS they have to send out an "investigator" to look at the property 'n decide the issue.
Here is why I've never given this any thought: I run my engraving business out of a "house" building: located on a main-drag; surrounded by other businesses. Have never, in a million years, considered mine a "home business". The entire main floor: a showroom, work areas, office, supply room; my basement a workshop. Even the kitchen is used for business purposes!
A billboard out front. Banners across the front of the building. I am zoned "limited business". I have a MN State tax ID. I pay higher property taxes; 'least triple the "house" next door. I live on the second floor: a bedroom 'n bath. Waiting now to hear back from UPS. ('least a 4-day process I'm told.) Have also learned: UPS apparently relies on the U.S. Post office designation of residential v.s. commercial. Go figure. Waiting now. Angry as heck at how much money I've spent unnecessarily on UPS S&H over the years - 'cause of this "oversight"! Might this be an issue with anyone else?
Bill