Why do all the big shipping companies force you to "Register" and give your credit card info just to get a rate quote?-g

[Harbourmaster]

This is really bugging me right now!

I have an item listed on eBay that is getting a lot of attention from overseas buyers. It is too heavy for USPS Priority Mail International (70 lb limit) so I want to get rate quotes from other carriers. UPS & DHL both want me to register before giving me a quote. Frankly I don't want to give them all of my information if I am not going to send my package with them. I just want to know how much it will cost!!!

Is there anyplace I can go on the web to get rate quotes without giving all of my personal info??

[Gareth]

Are you trying to get freight quotes from these carriers (because the item is so heavy)? I get regular quotes from UPS.com and Fedex.com only entering package info and zip codes or countries.

[Racer X]

well,once you have given them that info, that is legally considered a prior business relationship, and they can contact you even if you are not on the do-not-call list. probably not the reason, but it is true none the less.