The U.S. Postal Service plans a temporary 8% surcharge on certain shipping services to help cover rising transportation costs, the agency said. The increase, which requires approval from the Postal Regulatory Commission, is slated to take effect April 26 and remain in place through Jan. 17, 2027, when the Postal Service will review its expenses.
USPS said the adjustment is intended to ensure operating costs are met. A Postal Service spokesperson told CBS News the surcharge responds to higher fuel prices, logistics pressures and increased vehicle maintenance. The agency noted it generally receives no taxpayer funding for operations and relies on revenue from postage, products and services.
The 8% charge would apply to Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage and Parcel Select shipments. First-class stamps and other products and services would not be affected. USPS also said it has avoided surcharges for years and that the planned fee is “less than one-third” of the fuel-only surcharges charged by some competitors, maintaining that its rates remain competitive.
Gasoline and diesel prices have risen nationwide. AAA reported the average U.S. gasoline price nearing $4 per gallon and diesel climbing to about $5.37 per gallon, up from roughly $3.75 a month earlier.
Separately, Postmaster General David Steiner recently told Congress the Postal Service is seeking to raise the price of a first-class stamp to about 90 to 95 cents from the current 78 cents. The USPS posted a $9 billion loss in 2025 and has a 10-year plan to reduce costs and return to profitability, but Steiner warned the agency faces serious financial challenges and could exhaust its cash within 12 months.