UPS To Hike Freight Rates By 6% In 2009

October 18, 2008 10:11 a.m. EST

Atlanta, GA (AHN) - UPS, the world's largest freight forwarder, released a new rate schedule, which would take effect January 9, increasing freight costs between 6 and 7 percent.

UPS said that the general rate increase for packages will average around 5.9 percent for 2009. On the other hand, local packages bound outside the U.S., will have an average increase of 4.9 percent.

The rate hike for air express and international shipments is based on a 6.9 percent rise in the base rate, less a 2 percent decline in the air and international fuel surcharge index.

Updated rate and service information will be available on ups.com/rates starting October 24.

Customers can download the 2009 Rate and Service Guide on the UPS site in December 18.