UPS increases rates

UPS' rates will rise an average of 5.9% for ground shipping and an average of 4.9% for air express and US origin international shipments in 2009, the company said. UPS Freight announced a general rate increase of 5.9% for 2009.

The rate increase for air express and international shipments in 2009 is based on a 6.9% increase in the base rate, less a 2% reduction in the air and international, according to UPS.

In 2008, UPS raised its rates an average of 4.9% for UPS Ground, Ground Hundredweight, air express and U.S. origin International shipments.

Updated rate and service information will be posted on ups.com/rates beginning October 24. On December 18, customers can download the 2009 Rate and Service Guide on the site. 

Last month, FedEx announced its Express package and freight rates will increase an average of 6.9% for US and US export services.