USPS seeks a temporary 8% charge on Priority Mail and other products to offset transportation costs

The US Postal Service is seeking a temporary 8% charge on certain popular products, including Priority Mail, to offset rising transportation costs. The price increase, if approved, would take effect on April 26 and remain until Jan. 17, 2027. The agency stated that the adjustment is necessary to cover actual business costs and noted that competitors have implemented surcharges in response to fuel price increases. The proposed increase would impact Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select, while other services like First-Class Stamps would remain unaffected. Postmaster General David Steiner has warned Congress that the Postal Service could run out of cash within a year without reforms, including the ability to raise postage prices to cover losses.