The U.S. Postal Service will introduce its first-ever fuel surcharge of 8% on packages starting April 26, affecting Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, USPS Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select shipments, lasting until January 17, 2027.

The move comes as diesel prices in the U.S. have surged to $5.37 per gallon, partly due to recent geopolitical tensions and oil price spikes.

USPS says the surcharge is lower than competitors’ fuel fees and aims to offset rising transportation costs while keeping shipping rates relatively low.

Democrats criticized the decision, framing it as another cost burden on Americans, The Guardian has reported.

The postal service also faces broader financial challenges, with Postmaster General David Steiner warning it could run out of funds within a year without congressional intervention.