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USPS Files 2026 Shipping Rate Increases for Jan. 18 Start

The Board-approved proposal now awaits PRC review, reflecting the Delivering for America strategy after larger 2025 losses.

Overview

  • USPS has formally submitted Shipping Services price hikes set to take effect on January 18, 2026, pending Postal Regulatory Commission review.
  • Proposed average increases: Priority Mail +6.6%, Priority Mail Express +5.1%, USPS Ground Advantage +7.8%, Parcel Select +6%.
  • Mailing service prices will not rise in January and the First-Class Mail stamp stays unchanged as temporary holiday surcharges continue through January 18.
  • USPS ties the changes to its 10-year Delivering for America plan, citing a 2025 controllable loss of $2.7 billion, operating revenue of $80.5 billion, and a $9 billion net loss.
  • Analysts caution that frequent increases could depress volume, while UPS, FedEx, and DHL also plan average rate hikes of about 5.9% around year-end and early 2026.