Expect higher prices at the post office this holiday season

The effects of inflation and additional costs due to supply chain problems can seep well into the holiday season.



Pacific Press | Getty Images

The US Postal Service announced on Wednesday that it will increase shipping prices during the peak season, which runs from October 2 midnight central time to midnight central time on January 22 of next year.

“This seasonal adjustment will bring prices for the postal service’s commercial and residential customers in line with competitive practices,” the USPS said in a statement. release. “No structural changes are planned as part of this limited pricing initiative.”

The organization said the price increases had been approved by postal governors on Tuesday, noting that these seasonal increases in costs had been planned in advance.

Packages affected include packages shipped by Priority Mail Express, Regular Priority Mail, First-Class Package Service, Parcel Select, and USPS Retail Ground.

Price increases do not affect international packages.

“These temporary rates will keep USPS competitive while providing the agency with the revenue to cover additional costs in anticipation of peak season volume,” the statement said.

Shipping costs range from $0.25 to $6.50 depending on package size.

This marks the second year that the USPS increased prices during the holiday season, last year with a shorter time frame from October 3 to December 26.

See the full list of price increases by package type here.