WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Postal Service has proposed a temporary 8% price increase on several of its shipping services, citing rising transportation costs and the need to better align pricing with market conditions.
The Postal Service filed notice of the change with the Postal Regulatory Commission, which must review the proposal before it can take effect.
If approved, the increase would apply to Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage and Parcel Select. First-Class Mail and other services, including stamps, would not be affected.
Postal officials said the adjustment, approved by the agency’s governing board on March 24, is intended to help cover the actual cost of operations while maintaining long-term financial stability.
The price change would take effect April 26 and remain in place through Jan. 17, 2027. After that, the Postal Service will evaluate whether to implement a permanent pricing structure based on market conditions.
Officials said the move reflects broader industry trends, as shipping providers respond to increasing transportation and fuel costs. The Postal Service noted it has avoided adding fuel surcharges, unlike some competitors.
The agency said the temporary increase is designed to support its universal service obligation, which requires maintaining a nationwide delivery network operating at least six days a week.
