UPS and UPS-XML Modules - Interesting

[kopoba11]

Hello All,
Just would like to share what I found working with UPS and UPS-XML Modules

Found the following when (stock install no mods, just loaded products)

define('DIMENSIONS_SUPPORTED', 0);


Shipping modules will show wrong infomation

United Parcel Service (2 x 0.55lbs)
United Parcel Service (XML) (2 x 0.55lbs)
Because it shows 2 for number of packages rate is calculated wrong.


If I change define('DIMENSIONS_SUPPORTED', 1); and create package in packaging table.

UPS-XML will show correct information based on Package = 0.1lb, box = 0.1lb

United Parcel Service (XML) (1 pkg, 0.2 lbs total)

For the life of me I could not figure out why in no dimensions mode number of packages was not calculated properly.

I figured to post it here before reporting as bug.

if you know how to fix please post it.

Later

[kopoba11]

Looks like this problem was data related.
Reloaded all the data starting with clean DB and correct number of packages is shown.

I am working on 1.7 to 2cr2 conversion, it looks like incorrect data will effect application's output.
I wouls recommend not to do table drops even after upgrading 1.7 to 2.
I would suggest to do data load and only for product related info.

Much safer to configure store manualy.

Later

[kopoba11]

I was able to trace it down to configuration parameter for Shipping/Packaging (look for it in admin under Configuration)

if you set "Enter the Maximum Package Weight you will ship" to 1, it will show

United Parcel Service (2 x 0.55lbs)
United Parcel Service (XML) (2 x 0.55lbs)

After setting it to the number larger then 1

It showed correct information.

United Parcel Service (1 x 0.55lbs)
United Parcel Service (XML) (1 x 0.55lbs)

I am not sure if this has to recorded as a bug.
Since it is very minor, I will not log this as a bug.
Any other suggestions?

[JohnW]

That's not really a bug but more of a feature. 1 is a small number for maximum package weight but this configuration option is very useful. Everyone's needs are different and so there are a great deal of settings in the Admin panel. It really pays to know every part of that panel very well.

On a side note you might want to check out the XML contribution thread http://www.oscommerce.com/community/contributions,1323
and the support thread on the OSC forums. There have been some improvements to this module and while it might be a little time consuming to impement it is worth it. At least for me it seems to be working well and saving me money on shipping.