Setting up shipping for USPS Flat Rate boxes

[jb5989]

I'm in the process of setting up AC7 RC3 for our site but I'm having some issues with the shipping rate calculations. The large USPS Flat Rate Priority boxes seem to be the best option for us right now. Our main items are small, medium, and large bags of popcorn along with other concession related products. I've entered the products into my store (description, dimensions, weight, etc.) and my initial testing indicates that the calculated rates using the USPS V2 APIs are incorrect.

Questions:

1 - I assume the system isn't capable of calculating how many 12x12 boxes are needed based on the items in the cart? Currently I can select 1 small bag or 10 of them and the rate is always $8.75. In reality I can only fit 4 in a box.

2 - How do you determine how many shipping boxes are needed based on an order of mixed items?? I know the system can do it by weights (which I've tried) but it seems like cubic inches would be more appropriate in my case?

I've read through the documentation and forums but I'm stuck at the moment.

Thanks in advance!

[AbleMods]

1 - I assume the system isn't capable of calculating how many 12x12 boxes are needed based on the items in the cart? Currently I can select 1 small bag or 10 of them and the rate is always $8.75. In reality I can only fit 4 in a box.

AC7 does not handle packaging calculations as there is now way for it to know the dimensions of your available packaging materials. This would have to be accomplished outside of AC7.

2 - How do you determine how many shipping boxes are needed based on an order of mixed items?? I know the system can do it by weights (which I've tried) but it seems like cubic inches would be more appropriate in my case?

Same as question #1.

AC7 can only calculate freight based on weight or a custom rate you specify. You are correct that your situation almost requires shipment to include dimensions as well. You still have to factor in weight since you probably sell heavier-than-popcorn items like candy, butter, salt etc.

In the end, you're going to need some modifications to have AC7 automatically calculate proper freight based on dimensions.