In response to soaring fuel costs driven by the Iran conflict, major U.S. companies are introducing new fees and adjusting pricing strategies to offset increased operational expenses.
Airlines Increase Baggage Fees
- JetBlue raised checked baggage fees by $4 to $9 depending on flight times. For example, off-peak bags increased from $35 to $39, and peak from $40 to $49.
- United Airlines increased first and second checked bag fees by $10 each, to $45 and $55 respectively when purchased online in advance.
Amazon Implements Fuel Surcharge for Sellers
- Amazon introduced a temporary 3.5% "fuel- and logistics-related surcharge" for third-party sellers using its fulfillment services, effective late April.
- The surcharge may lead sellers to raise prices, but consumers are not directly charged yet.
USPS Rolls Out First Fuel Surcharge on Packages
- The US Postal Service is applying an 8% fuel surcharge on packages starting April 26, its first such fee.
- The surcharge is temporary and will last until at least January 17, 2027.
Shipping Companies Use Existing Fuel Surcharges
- FedEx and UPS have automatic fuel surcharges based on diesel prices. FedEx charged 26.5% as of April 6 when diesel exceeds $3.55 per gallon.
- Maersk and others add fees for longer routes and increased sourcing costs due to Middle East disruptions.