Shipping Rates Increase as Holiday Shopping Begins

Atlanta-based United Parcel Service announced rate increases to take effect on November 2, in time for holiday shopping. UPS will increase its fuel surcharges and will double its rates to deliver oversize items. Both UPS and FedEx are increasing rates and other charges about 5%. Separately, the US Postal Service is also asking regulators to raise prices by an average of 9.5%.

New fees are also being established for retailers using third party shipments. This new fee will affect retailers that allow vendors to ship directly to consumers, or who direct goods to their own shelves for restocking.

Any price increases as likely to be passed along to consumers in higher shipping costs and/or higher prices at checkout.

Source: Wall St. Journal