UPS will match FedEx with an average 4.9% increase in its U.S. shipping rates for 2019.
The company announced yesterday that the rates for UPS Ground, UPS Air and International services, as well as UPS Air Freight rates within and between the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, will increase an average net 4.9% with effect from December 26, 2018.
In addition, a processing fee will be charged when Package Level Detail (PLD) is not provided to UPS prior to delivery and the rates for certain value-added services and other charges will increase. Fuel surcharges will apply to Additional Handling, Over Maximum Limits, Signature Required and Adult Signature Required accessorials.
Justifying the rates increase, UPS emphasised that it continues to make investments in capacity, technology and reach of its transportation network in order to support customers’ growth, visibility, and service needs.
“Rate increases support ongoing expansion and capabilities enhancements while ensuring UPS is fairly compensated for the value and high service levels provided,” the company stated.
FedEx already announced very similar price increases for 2019 in early November that will go into effect from January 7, 2019.
FedEx Express shipping rates will increase by an average of 4.9% for U.S. domestic, U.S. export and U.S. import services. Within the U.S., FedEx Ground and FedEx Home Delivery shipping rates will increase by an average of 4.9%, and FedEx SmartPost shipping rates will also increase.
In mid-November, DHL Express announced a 5.4% general average shipment price increase for U.S. account holders, effective January 1, 2019. It had previously announced a 4.9% average increase for many major markets in Europe and Asia Pacific from the same date.
