The U.S. Postal Service is temporarily increasing postage on select shipping services to offset surging transportation costs driven in part by the Iran war, the agency announced. Pending approval from the Postal Regulatory Commission, an 8% surcharge will take effect April 26 and remain in place through Jan. 17, 2027, when the Postal Service will reassess its expenses.
USPS said the temporary price adjustment will help ensure actual operating costs are covered. A Postal Service spokesperson told CBS News the surcharge is aimed at rising transportation-related costs, including higher fuel prices, logistics strains and vehicle maintenance. The agency noted it typically receives no tax dollars for operating expenses and funds itself through postage, products and services.
The 8% increase applies to Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage and Parcel Select services. It does not affect first-class stamps or other products and services. USPS added that it has avoided surcharges for years and that the new fee is “less than one-third of what our competitors charge for fuel alone,” saying the Postal Service still offers competitive shipping rates.
Gas prices have jumped nationwide, with the average U.S. price approaching $4 per gallon and diesel rising more sharply to about $5.37 per gallon, up from $3.75 a month earlier, according to AAA.
Earlier this month, Postmaster General David Steiner told Congress the USPS wants to raise the first-class stamp price to between 90 and 95 cents from the current 78 cents. The Postal Service has struggled with high costs and declining mail volume, posting a $9 billion loss in 2025. While it has a 10-year plan to cut expenses and return to profitability, Steiner warned the agency faces substantial financial challenges and could run out of cash within 12 months. Edited by Alain Sherter