AUSTPost module

Hi Rod

I think I may have found a bug but just wondered if you were aware of it.

With versions of MySQL lower than 5.0.3, as you know you are limited to varchars with a max length of 255. On a couple of stores I've developed this has caused problems with the 'orders_total' table in the 'title' column whereby the html was being truncated and not terminating properly. This makes the invoices display incorrectly on certain browsers.

I'm just upgrading the databases to 5.0.3 as we speak and am going to run an alter table on that column to increase its size. Hopefully, that should sort the problem.

Thought you should know if you didn't already.

Cheers

ionebusiness:

Hi Rod

I think I may have found a bug but just wondered if you were aware of it.

With versions of MySQL lower than 5.0.3, as you know you are limited to varchars with a max length of 255. On a couple of stores I've developed this has caused problems with the 'orders_total' table in the 'title' column whereby the html was being truncated and not terminating properly. This makes the invoices display incorrectly on certain browsers.

I'm just upgrading the databases to 5.0.3 as we speak and am going to run an alter table on that column to increase its size. Hopefully, that should sort the problem.

Thought you should know if you didn't already.

Cheers

Oooeerr, thanks for letting me know about this one. No, I wasn't aware of it.

Thanks.

Rod

I modified the Austpost Improved Module so that when using free shipping it gives regular post parcel rate for free, and subtracts that rate (including handling fees & properly displaying the modified ones) from the other option (i.e. Express or 3kg Satchel.) When not using free shipping it works normally.

This took a LOT of work. I will share this if requested. I did a quick once through with the letters but since I don't ship any I didn't thoroughly check it. I will if I get a good enough request.

RodG:

Oooeerr, thanks for letting me know about this one. No, I wasn't aware of it.

Thanks.

Rod

Hi Rod

I'm looking for the module I need to modify in order to change the actual concatenation of the html that gets inserted into the orders_total.title column. Can you point me in the right direction? I've got clients who can't upgrade to MySQL 5 so I'm intending to take off the first Australia Post logo from the html and just leave them with the shipping option instead to see if that does the trick for them.

Cheers
Andy

ionebusiness:

Hi Rod

I'm looking for the module I need to modify in order to change the actual concatenation of the html that gets inserted into the orders_total.title column. Can you point me in the right direction?

The easiest/safest/best way to do this is to edit:

/includes/languages/english/modules/shipping/austpost.php

Once you open the file into an editor it will be quite obvious what you need to change. :-)

Cheers
Rod.

Has anyone figured out how to make the order total cost text line up with the images (or make the text that is part of the shipping method center vertically with the images instead of the bottom)? The best I could do was to center the cost text but the title text was still aligned with the bottom of the images, making it look sloppy.

This seems very complex to me to be done properly. I doubt I will get a response unless it has been done before, easily enough. Thanks regardless.

ionebusiness:

Hi Rod

I'm looking for the module I need to modify in order to change the actual concatenation of the html that gets inserted into the orders_total.title column. Can you point me in the right direction? I've got clients who can't upgrade to MySQL 5 so I'm intending to take off the first Australia Post logo from the html and just leave them with the shipping option instead to see if that does the trick for them.

Cheers
Andy

It's in the shipping module, in include/modules/shipping/austpost.php. Good luck, it is unlikely you will be able to fix it from there, unless you remove the images altogether and have a decent understanding of PHP; it is a very complex module. I just posted a simple question in the same ballpark. (The order total generator file is tpl_module_order_totals.php.) You can remove the entire shipping title and replace it with a generic one perhaps.

Well, just removing that one header image, on second reading, that is much more possible - still a decent basic of PHP would be necessary.

Good luck.

I'm on version 1.3.7 & am on the almost newest version of the Auspost module, it has been working pretty good up till now, however I received an order today that threw me, the person ordered a number of small items that calculate as a large letter (up to 125g) & then the last item was larger & would normally be classified as a parcel item, however it has calculated the order as a large letter (up to 250g).

The smaller items all have their dimensions & weights entered in the product info fields, however I only have the weight entered for the larger item.

I tested it myself & if I put the large item in the cart first it calculates postage correctly, but as the last item it doesn't, does anyone know why this would happen?

Hey Rod, just wondering if you've had the chance to check this out for me as yet?

Katie
https://www.live2knit.com.au

lucky__starre:

Hey Rod, just wondering if you've had the chance to check this out for me as yet?

Katie
https://www.live2knit.com.au

Yes, I have actually. It doesn't look like it going to be all that difficult to fix and I was hoping to email you a patched version of the code for testing last weekend. However, hardware issues got the better of me.

Hopefully this coming weekend will be more productive.

Cheers
Rod

Hi RodG!

I've just installed the script following your instructions as per install.txt and I am getting this following error during Estimation of postage cost window thing: ERROR:Unable to obtain a valid quote from the Australia Post Server.
You may still checkout using this method and we will contact you with postage costs as soon as possible.

Also does this scrip allow the buyer to select which postage method they'd like for example can the buyer select Express Post (for extra $$) instead of standard post?

And finally can this script be configured so that there is only a one time cost of 5.50 (parcel) and anything the customer adds after that is simply an extra dollar or two instead of adding 5.50 regardless of the item because I can quite easily fit heaps in my normal 5.50 parcel.

What I am talking about can be seen on this website i stumbled across: whitersmile.com.au/products-prices.html

Add a product and see how it only charges you a one time fee of 7.70 for express and you can add a few smaller items without incuring another 7.70$ charge.

Thanks mate

Hello I fixed the timing out problem by changing the sever in austpost.php

/includes/modules/shipping/austpost.php
go to line #118
or look for: $SERVER = "http://austpost.vcsweb.com/ ;
rem this line and insert a new line:
$SERVER = "http://drc.edeliver.com.au/";

Now having some problems:

In the Estimation Window it has

Total Items: 1 Weight: 180grams Amount: $89.95 Dims: 28x21x2.5 Boxes: 4

Its totaling for one product regular parcel to being 18+ dollars I assume its Boxes: 4 above thats causing it? Where the hell did Boxes 4 come from and what does it mean?

Webmyster:

Hi RodG!

I've just installed the script following your instructions as per install.txt and I am getting this following error during Estimation of postage cost window thing: ERROR:Unable to obtain a valid quote from the Australia Post Server.
You may still checkout using this method and we will contact you with postage costs as soon as possible.

This is a generic error message that can relate to a multitude of different causes (Many of them perfectly legitimate).

Webmyster:

Also does this scrip allow the buyer to select which postage method they'd like for example can the buyer select Express Post (for extra $$) instead of standard post?

Yes.

Webmyster:

And finally can this script be configured so that there is only a one time cost of 5.50 (parcel) and anything the customer adds after that is simply an extra dollar or two instead of adding 5.50 regardless of the item because I can quite easily fit heaps in my normal 5.50 parcel.

What I am talking about can be seen on this website i stumbled across: whitersmile.com.au/products-prices.html

Add a product and see how it only charges you a one time fee of 7.70 for express and you can add a few smaller items without incuring another 7.70$ charge.

Thanks mate

This (the AP module) works on the concept of parcels, rather than items,
As long as correct weights and dimensions are specified (per item) the module will calculate costs based on the size and weight of the total package.

Each of the different types of shipping methods have their own 'handling fees', which is added as a one time only fee per parcel (not per item).

Cheers
Rod

Webmyster:

Hello I fixed the timing out problem by changing the sever in austpost.php

/includes/modules/shipping/austpost.php
go to line #118
or look for: $SERVER = "http://austpost.vcsweb.com/ ;
rem this line and insert a new line:
$SERVER = "http://drc.edeliver.com.au/";

I HOPE you are aware that the change you have made has nothing to do with any 'timeout issues', and that in making this change you are preventing the AP module from giving valid quotations for 'fixed price' postage methods such as letters and pre-paid satchels (unless you make the other changes specified in the docs).

Having to use the drc.edeliver.com.au server is generally considered a 'bad thing' (tm) and this functionaly has been left in the code primarily to help debuging server connectivity problems.

Webmyster:

Now having some problems:

In the Estimation Window it has

Total Items: 1 Weight: 180grams Amount: $89.95 Dims: 28x21x2.5 Boxes: 4

Its totaling for one product regular parcel to being 18+ dollars I assume its Boxes: 4 above thats causing it? Where the hell did Boxes 4 come from and what does it mean?

The "4 boxes" is PROBABLY being derived from within the core zencart code itself (although there are situations whereby the AP module will also 'split' oversize parcels).

Basically, the zencart core code will make/create multiple parcels/boxes if the parcel WEIGHT exceeds the maximum that you have defined in the Shipping and packaging settings.

The AP module will make/create multiple boxes if the parcel DIMENSIONS exceed the maximum allowed limits imposed by Australia Post.

The zencart core code get the 'first look' at the shipping details, and passes this info across to the AP module for further calculations, which means that right or wrong, if the core code decides you need to send 4 boxes, then the AP module will calculate the cost * 4

The most common cause of this problem is setting the AP module to use "gms" as its base weight, and leaving the max shipping weight at its defaults. Assuming the default is "20", that will get interpreted at 20gms, so twhen adding an item that weighs 80gms, the core zencart code will 'tell' the AP module it needs to go into 4 separate parcels.

Solution #1.
Change your max shipping weight to "20000" (20kgs).

Solution#2.
Change the AP weight format to "Kgs" and update all of your item weights accordingly.

Solution#1 is my personal recommendation, but either way, the end result will be the same.

Cheers
Rod

RodG:

I HOPE you are aware that the change you have made has nothing to do with any 'timeout issues', and that in making this change you are preventing the AP module from giving valid quotations for 'fixed price' postage methods such as letters and pre-paid satchels (unless you make the other changes specified in the docs).

Having to use the drc.edeliver.com.au server is generally considered a 'bad thing' (tm) and this functionaly has been left in the code primarily to help debuging server connectivity problems.

The "4 boxes" is PROBABLY being derived from within the core zencart code itself (although there are situations whereby the AP module will also 'split' oversize parcels).

Basically, the zencart core code will make/create multiple parcels/boxes if the parcel WEIGHT exceeds the maximum that you have defined in the Shipping and packaging settings.

The AP module will make/create multiple boxes if the parcel DIMENSIONS exceed the maximum allowed limits imposed by Australia Post.

The zencart core code get the 'first look' at the shipping details, and passes this info across to the AP module for further calculations, which means that right or wrong, if the core code decides you need to send 4 boxes, then the AP module will calculate the cost * 4

The most common cause of this problem is setting the AP module to use "gms" as its base weight, and leaving the max shipping weight at its defaults. Assuming the default is "20", that will get interpreted at 20gms, so twhen adding an item that weighs 80gms, the core zencart code will 'tell' the AP module it needs to go into 4 separate parcels.

Solution #1.
Change your max shipping weight to "20000" (20kgs).

Solution#2.
Change the AP weight format to "Kgs" and update all of your item weights accordingly.

Solution#1 is my personal recommendation, but either way, the end result will be the same.

Cheers
Rod

Wow thanks for this information it all works flawlesy at the moment.

I have to say this script is absolutely amazing it was exactly the thing I was looking for you are a legand my friend!

What do you suggest regarding the drc.edeliver.com.au I dont want to be using it if its going to give me bad quotes because at the moment seems to be very accurate.

Do I go back to the original server address and troubleshoot the timeout from there?

Hmm you see when I change it back to http://austpost.vcsweb.com

I get the error why is this happening but when I change it back to http://drc.edeliver.com.au/ it runs flawlessely and is very accurate........?

Webmyster:

Wow thanks for this information it all works flawlesy at the moment.

I have to say this script is absolutely amazing it was exactly the thing I was looking for you are a legand my friend!

What do you suggest regarding the drc.edeliver.com.au I dont want to be using it if its going to give me bad quotes because at the moment seems to be very accurate.

Do I go back to the original server address and troubleshoot the timeout from there?

Regardless of which server you have defined to be used, the end quotes for parcels will always be obtained from the drc.edeliver server.
The austpost.vcsweb.com server is only used to obtain the fixed price stuff. (which isn't readily avialable from the drc servers).

During 'normal' operation (assuming everything works correctly) the AP module sends a special request (fees) to the austpost.vcsweb servers, where the prepaid satchel, regular letter, and insurance rates are obtained. All other requests are assumed to be variable quotes based on parcel rates and are redirected to the drc.edeliver servers.

In most cases this works well, but in some cases it has been noted that the redirections don't work due to restrictions put in place by some ISP's.

By defining the drc.edeliver server as being the one to use helps identify whether the end user has a generic connectivity problem or whether they are affected by the redirection problem (experience indicates that most problems are not caused by the redirection issue).

It has been observed that sometimes switching from the 'FILE' method to the 'cURL' method of connection will solve this problem.

Anyway, assuming your (original) problem IS caused by the redirection (and it appears this might be the case) then unless you compensate for the 'missing data' (by editing the code) you will not be able to offer prepaid bags, letters, registration, COD or even insurance. IOW, you'll only be able to get quotes on regular/express parcels, Other quotes simply won't show up even if you do 'enable' them.

Hopefully that makes sense.

Cheers
Rod

RodG:

Regardless of which server you have defined to be used, the end quotes for parcels will always be obtained from the drc.edeliver server.
The austpost.vcsweb.com server is only used to obtain the fixed price stuff. (which isn't readily avialable from the drc servers).

During 'normal' operation (assuming everything works correctly) the AP module sends a special request (fees) to the austpost.vcsweb servers, where the prepaid satchel, regular letter, and insurance rates are obtained. All other requests are assumed to be variable quotes based on parcel rates and are redirected to the drc.edeliver servers.

In most cases this works well, but in some cases it has been noted that the redirections don't work due to restrictions put in place by some ISP's.

By defining the drc.edeliver server as being the one to use helps identify whether the end user has a generic connectivity problem or whether they are affected by the redirection problem (experience indicates that most problems are not caused by the redirection issue).

It has been observed that sometimes switching from the 'FILE' method to the 'cURL' method of connection will solve this problem.

Anyway, assuming your (original) problem IS caused by the redirection (and it appears this might be the case) then unless you compensate for the 'missing data' (by editing the code) you will not be able to offer prepaid bags, letters, registration, COD or even insurance. IOW, you'll only be able to get quotes on regular/express parcels, Other quotes simply won't show up even if you do 'enable' them.

Hopefully that makes sense.

Cheers
Rod

Hey RodG I think its making sense, I may leave it as it is now since I have only ever used Normal Parcel and Express Parcel in Australia and also for International and these two are the ones that show up which is all I need for the moment. Using the 'bad method' I've tested it quite abit and it seems to split the parcel when a customer orders a lot however this is very rare as usualy a customer will only order one or two products. I am dealing with very light product perhaps max 250grams is my heaviest.

I will try the cURL method and see if it resolves using the original link.

This reminds me, is there any way to have an option for Money Order as a form of Payment?

Again Thanks very much fora wonderful script

Cant figure out how to edit posts here so heres my update RodG:

I've replaced the edeliver address with your address and regardless of what I do (set cURL) it says there is a connection problem. When I enter the address manuly into my browser it seems to work because it says this page is not ment for humans etc etc.

I have no idea what could be causing the connection problem... if cURL does not work I guess I am one of the unlucky small percentile of people who just cannot use that address with their current set up?

Webmyster:

This reminds me, is there any way to have an option for Money Order as a form of Payment?

Again Thanks very much fora wonderful script

Hmmm, how do I reply to this? It is important to realise that this is a shipping module and not a payment module.

From a practical point of view, Money orders can be treated in the same way as Cheque payments, so a bit of textual modification to that particular payment module should suffice.

Does that help?

Cheers
Rod

PS. The only time/place that the AP module has anything to do with payments is in regards to COD (Cash on Delivery), and this is because COD is predominantly a method of delivery rather than a method of payment.

Webmyster:

Cant figure out how to edit posts here so heres my update RodG:
Posts can only be edited within a short timeframe (10 mins or so, I think).

Webmyster:

I've replaced the edeliver address with your address and regardless of what I do (set cURL) it says there is a connection problem. When I enter the address manuly into my browser it seems to work because it says this page is not ment for humans etc etc.

I have no idea what could be causing the connection problem... if cURL does not work I guess I am one of the unlucky small percentile of people who just cannot use that address with their current set up?

Correct. You are suffering from the redirection limitation/problem. (I hope to have this corrected with the next update, which alas, keeps getting put on the backburner due to more important (paying) jobs.

As long as you are aware of the limitations of using the drc. server directly there is nothing wrong with leaving it this way.

However, now that we have identified that you really are having the redirection problem, you can fix it 'properly' by following the posts numbered #121, #122 & #123 in this thread.

What these posts detail are a method to use both servers without the redirection issues. (It is actually quire a simple fix). Again, it isn't essential that you provide this complete fix, but it will provide those prices and options that would otherwise be unavailable to you (the most significant being a lack of insurance options).

Cheers
Rod