High gas prices caused by the conflict in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz are prompting major delivery companies to add new surcharges for online orders.
- Global conflict drives up costs: High gas prices from the conflict in Iran are forcing delivery companies to add fuel surcharges.
- Major carriers raise rates: Amazon, USPS, FedEx, and UPS are all implementing rate increases or extra fees.
- Local charities worry: Rising shipping costs are hurting local organizations that rely on online orders to supply essentials to families in need.
Starting April 17, Amazon is applying a temporary 3.5% fuel surcharge to its third-party sellers. Starting April 26, the U.S. Postal Service will add an 8% price increase on certain packages, including Priority Mail. The USPS increase will run through mid-January.
Last month, both FedEx and UPS increased their fuel surcharge rates. Both companies say surcharges will increase as fuel prices rise.
Linda Hughson with Mason Community Services spends her life helping neighbors in need. Much of that time is spent online buying essentials on Amazon, like diapers, toiletries, and socks…