FedEx to raise rates

FedEx is raising express shipping rates, effective January 5, 2009.

FedEx Express package and freight rates will increase an average of 6.9% for US and US export services. The rate increase will be partially offset by adjusting the fuel price at which the fuel surcharge begins, reducing the fuel surcharge by 2%, the company said.

The company also said FedEx Express import and international premium rates would change on Jan. 5, though no information on how much they will change is yet available.

Also, effective March 2 of next year, FedEx First Overnight service will be available from Hawaii. It will also be available to Alaska.

The shipping company further states that rates for FedEx ground and home delivery and retail counter rates would also change on January 5.