Have you ever wondered why your shipping costs seem to fluctuate, even for the same package to the same destination? One factor that can significantly impact your shipping expenses is demand surcharges.

What are demand surcharges?

Demand surcharges are additional fees imposed by shipping carriers during periods of peak demand. These surcharges are designed to help carriers manage increased volume, labor shortages, and other factors that can strain their resources. This is a common practice that helps carriers deliver your packages on time, even during the busiest times of the year.

Why do carriers implement demand surcharges?

  1. Peak Seasons: During holidays like Christmas or Black Friday, carriers experience a surge in package volume. To handle this increased demand, they may impose surcharges to offset additional costs.
  2. Fuel Surcharges: Fluctuations in fuel prices can directly impact carrier operating costs, so fuel surcharges are added to shipping rates to offset these increases.
  3. Congestion Surcharges: In regions with high shipping volumes carriers may implement congestion surcharges to cover the extra costs associated with delays and inefficiencies.
  4. Remote Area Surcharges: Deliveries to remote or hard-to-reach areas can be more expensive for carriers, so remote area surcharges are applied to cover the additional costs of delivering to these locations.
  5. Additional Handling Surcharges: An additional handling surcharge applies to packages that require extra resources for delivery due to their weight, unusual shape, or special packaging.
  6. Large Package Surcharge: Packages that specifically have oversized dimensions will receive a large package surcharge to offset the resources needed to deliver.
  7. Over Maximum Limit Surcharge: Packages that exceed a carrier’s maximum weight or size limits, will receive a surcharge to cover the extra costs and resources needed to deliver these oversized items. 

Holiday 2025 demand surcharges

Demand surcharges are temporary and occur during high-demand times, like the holidays, but they typically only last until the demand subsides. As we approach the holiday season, it’s important to keep an eye on shipping costs and potential surcharges from carriers during peak times. Staying informed on how these temporary demand surcharges can affect your shipping rates is crucial, and that’s where ShipStation can help. 

Here are the specific surcharge details for popular carriers:

ShipStation is here to keep you informed about the ever-changing shipping carrier landscape, whether it be demand surcharges or dynamic pricing. We understand that navigating this complex industry can be challenging, which is why we are dedicated to ensuring you have the knowledge and tools you need. 

Specifically, our automated Rate Shopper lets you compare rates from your chosen carriers and services, automatically selecting the best option–helping you make smarter shipping decisions. You can even configure it to automatically find the best rate for your desired delivery window every time an order is imported. 

With ShipStation, you can:

  • Access real-time rates: Stay informed about the latest pricing trends.
  • Choose from a variety of carriers: Compare rates and select the best options for your needs.
  • Automate your shipping: Save time and money with tools like Rate Shopper.

In addition to managing costs, it’s essential to pay attention to holiday shipping deadlines to ensure your customers receive their gifts on time. As the holidays draw nearer, offering expedited shipping may become necessary, often at a higher price. Be sure to communicate the last shipping days clearly to your customers to avoid any disappointment.

As always, we’re here to help make this busy season your best one yet.

Not a ShipStation customer yet? Make sure you have the tools you need to navigate all aspects of shipping this peak season. Start your 30-day free trial today!

Sarah Tyler
Sarah Tyler
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