What's with the printed wrappers and inaccurate postage requirements lately?  In the past few days, I have had 3 that were obviously out of whack, this is out of 5 requests!

One was for a book that was a paperback, LISTED as a paperback, right edition etc, but the postage recommendation was for hardbound. 

Two were labeled as "First class" and were considerably too heavy for that.

I'm glad I bought a postage scale some time back, because I could really have some problems otherwise.

Anyone else having this happen?

I've had the same happen. A hardcover had first class on it for $1.13  No way is that right.

This just happened to me as well. After clicking "Print Wrapper", the page said that the book weighed 6.7 ounces and that the postage should be $2.15 for first class.  I weighed it on my postage scale and the book weighed exactly 6.7 ounce (without the wrapping).  Printed out the wrapper, and the box in the upper corner says that the suggested posted is $1.98! 

Definitely a bit confusing!

I had one today where the recommended postage was $2.81, but when the post ofice guy weighed it, he said it was only $2.47. Since I was mailing it at the counter, it didn't matter to me much, but I can see how it could be a problem!

The weights that are in the system are estimates, and R&R recommend that you always check on the weights.  Also, depending on how you package the books it could bump them up to the next weight class.  It helps the database when do do verify and enter correct weights!  :)

Melissa, I definitely agree with you that the weights are estimates.  In my case, however, the weight that PBS showed for the book (which was correct, by the way) was 6.7 ounces, and the postage on the printed wrapper was $1.98 for first class, which is the postage for a book that is under 6 ounces.  I think there's a glitch in the system in this instance.

It clearly states in the Help Center that the postage is not always correct. I still don't know why they continue to print it, when it is often wrong and causes problems, but that's up to them. here are two links returned when I typed into the HC:

postage estimate

I highly recommended to either get a scale to be sure of the weight, or take your book to the counter. I do not recommend using the paid PBS postage wrapper if you do not have a scales. But, of course, that's just my opinion, follow it or not, at your own risk :)

I never go by the amount that's on the label.  in fact, I cut that part and the area that says either first class or media mail out when I wrap the book.  I usually mail them at the post office and find that if things are pre-printed on there it just confuses them.   I hand the package to them-they weigh it-ask me how I want it sent-and then they stamp it.  takes alot less me explaining time.

the times I  mail from my home or drop in a box I still cut the postage thingy and media mail/first class off and weigh it myself after I package it.