Brace yourselves—shipping costs could be on the rise again. According to advocacy group Keep US Posted, the USPS Board is reportedly “plotting” an 11.5% rate hike set for July. If true, this would mark yet another increase under Postmaster General Louis DeJoy’s tenure, where rate hikes have become a three-times-a-year occurrence.
With DeJoy stepping down and rumors swirling about a USPS restructuring under President Trump, the uncertainty surrounding shipping costs has never been higher. So, what does this mean for eCommerce sellers?
What’s Going On? Why Is USPS Plotting a Major Rate Hike?
- USPS rate hikes used to be annual—now they’re happening in January, July, and during the holiday season.
- An 11.5% increase in July would put even more pressure on sellers already dealing with rising fulfillment costs.
- Postmaster General DeJoy announced his resignation this week, adding another layer of uncertainty to USPS leadership.
- President Trump has floated the idea of bringing USPS under executive control, fueling speculation about further changes.
How This Could Impact eCommerce Sellers
If this rate hike moves forward, here’s what sellers need to consider:
- Higher shipping costs: USPS has long been the most affordable option for many businesses, but repeated price increases could change that.
- Potential service changes: With leadership shakeups, service levels and delivery times could also be impacted.
- More sellers exploring alternative carriers: As USPS rates climb, businesses may start shifting to UPS, FedEx, or regional carriers to manage costs.
What Should Sellers Do Now?
While nothing is confirmed yet, it’s always smart to prepare for potential cost increases.
- Keep an eye on official USPS announcements for rate updates.
- Compare shipping rates across carriers to see where you can save.
- Adjust pricing strategies if necessary to account for rising costs.
- Communicate with customers about any potential shipping changes or delays.
The Bottom Line for Sellers
Whether or not this “plotted” rate hike becomes reality, one thing is clear: USPS pricing remains unpredictable. eCommerce sellers should stay informed, flexible, and ready to adjust their shipping strategies as needed.
Want an easier way to manage shipping costs? Ordoro helps sellers compare rates, streamline fulfillment, and automate shipping—all in one place. Book a time to chat and see how we can help your business stay ahead.