If inflation doesn’t get you shipping price hikes will.
USPS, aka the post office, and Fed Ex have announced “temporary” price hikes for shipping during the holiday season. The brown truck hasn’t.
The USPS increase goes into effect Sunday and Fed Ex Monday.
“It will cost us more, we’ll have to pull out our wallet, open it a little wider this season. We’ll also see it slightly in the price of goods when free shipping is included as a perk,” says Barbara Stewart, University of Houston, Chair of Human Development and Consumer Sciences including Retail and Consumer Sciences.
If you’re hauling boxes to the post office that could set you back about six bucks or more October 2 through January 22.
Fed Ex is adding another $6.55 or so per package October 3 through January 15.
Prices are going to vary based on the size and weight of the box.
We love that free shipping with online purchases. “Retailers have found that it’s one of the most desired features in the decision of who to buy from. And free returns also,” says Stewart.
photo: Getty Images