Why are these surcharges happening so early? How do they compare to 2021 surcharges? Is there anything you can do to minimize your spending? We’ll share everything you need to know about FedEx’s 2022 peak surcharges and let you know how you can save— even when rates increase.

Why are FedEx’s peak surcharges going into effect so early?

A statement on the FedEx website explains, “As FedEx prepares for high demand during peak holiday season, we are adjusting our networks to best deliver for our customers. We again anticipate the surge in residential volume to carry over into the new year.”

They say, “To continue providing our customers with the best possible service, we are implementing the following peak surcharges and fees.”

What are the new surcharges, and how do they compare with 2021 rates?

From October 31 – November 27, 2022, and December 12, 2022 – January 15, 2023, FedEx will impose a peak surcharge of $1.50 per package. From November 28 – December 11, 2022, that surcharge will increase to $2.50 per package.

Last year, the pre and post-holiday peaks were set at $1.50, while the November 29 – December 12, 2021 peak surcharge was set at $3 per package.

Not all rates will remain the same or experience a decrease. Beginning October 31, 2022, FedEx will levy a Peak Residential Delivery Charge upon FedEx Express and FedEx Ground U.S. domestic residential packages (excluding FedEx Ground Economy and FedEx One Rate® packages). To calculate the surcharges, FedEx will assess the number of packages sent during a “calculation week,” and then compare that number to the “application week.” Depending on the percentage increase (from >105% to >400%), rates increase this year by $1.25 to $7.00 per package. In 2021, FedEx measured an increase from >110% to >500% and added a peak surcharge between $1.15 and $6.00.

Can I avoid peak surcharges?

According to the fine print, “any contracted discount or cap the customer may have on the Residential Delivery Charge will not apply to the Peak – Residential Delivery Charge.” There’s no getting around these surcharges, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options.

The team at ShipRx helps customers across the country save on their shipping costs through parcel audits and contract negotiations. With parcel audits, we track over 40 factors to ensure you get the refunds you deserve when FedEx doesn’t uphold its service guarantee.

Our parcel contract negotiations regularly save our customers 20-30% off their existing contracts. The best part? You can renegotiate any time, so you don’t need to wait until the end of your contract to start saving.

Get in touch today to find out how you can start saving — no credit card or pre-payment necessary.

Todd Partner