What You Need to Know About the New UPS Surge Fees (October 2025)

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If your business sends goods overseas, it’s important to understand the new UPS surge fees and how they could affect your shipping costs.

Global freight networks are under pressure from rising transport costs and ongoing demand across major trade lanes. To offset these pressures, UPS has introduced a global surge fee on international shipments to balance capacity and operating costs.

The new UPS surge fee took effect on 28 September 2025 and will remain active until further notice. It applies to all international imports and exports, calculated by billable weight on top of existing fuel surcharges. These changes could increase international shipping costs for many Australian businesses during the peak trading months ahead.

This article explains what these UPS surge fees mean for Australian importers and exporters, why they were introduced, and how businesses can plan ahead to manage their costs. 

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UPS Announces New Surge Fees Effective October 2025

The latest UPS update outlines clear surcharge rates for shipments moving to and from Australia.

UPS introduced new surge fees starting on 28 September 2025. Between 26 October and 1 November 2025, imports to Australia will attract fees of $0.70 to $1.30 per kilogram, depending on where the shipment comes from. From 2 November, a new fee of $0.20 per kilogram applies to shipments within the Asia Pacific region.

Surcharges are calculated by billable weight and include the standard fuel surcharge. UPS says the new fees help manage costs and maintain reliable service during peak shipping periods. The rates will stay in place until further notice and may change as demand shifts.

For current pricing and updates, visit the UPS Shipping Costs and Rates page.

Why UPS Introduced the Surge Fee

The new UPS surge fee addresses anticipated increases in global shipping demand and rising operating costs. The surcharge helps UPS manage network capacity during peak demand while maintaining reliable delivery performance.

Like other global carriers, UPS is responding to supply chain bottlenecks, rising jet fuel prices, and limited freight capacity. UPS’s move follows a common industry practice, where major carriers apply temporary surcharges during peak shipping periods to balance service quality and operational costs.

Recent data from Maersk shows that global ocean container trade grew about 4.7% year-on-year between December and February. This growth has carried into 2025, creating stronger competition for carrier space and higher operating costs.

Impact on Australian Importers and Exporters

Australian importers and exporters who use UPS will now see surge fees added to both inbound and outbound international shipments. The following trade routes are the most affected by the new UPS surge fees:

• The United States
• Europe
• China and Hong Kong
• Israel
• ISMEA (India, the Middle East, and Africa)
• Other Asia Pacific countries

All fees are based on the billable weight of each shipment and include the UPS fuel surcharge.

Imports to Australia

From 26 October to 1 November 2025, imports from the United States, Europe, Israel, and Mainland China or Hong Kong SAR will have surge fees between $0.70 and $1.30 per kilogram. From 2 November onward, shipments moving within the Asia Pacific will have an additional fee of $0.20 per kilogram.

Exports from Australia

Shipments from Australia to the United States, Europe, ISMEA, and Asia Pacific destinations will have a surcharge of $1.80 per kilogram until 1 November. After that, the rate will change to $0.20 per kilogram for Asia Pacific destinations and $1.00 per kilogram for shipments to Israel.

Many Australian exporters depend on express air freight to move goods quickly. Changes to surcharges can increase the final cost of each shipment, so businesses should plan their budgets carefully during this period.

What Businesses Should Do Next

Here’s how Australian shippers can handle the new UPS surge fees and keep costs under control.

1. Review and adjust your shipping budget. Update forecasts to include the new per-kilogram surcharges and any changes to fuel rates.
2. Compare carriers and routes. Check if another carrier or route offers better rates or more space for your regular shipments.
3. Book shipments early. Planning ahead can help you avoid rate spikes and delays during the busy peak season.
4. Consolidate your freight. Combine smaller deliveries into one larger shipment to save on handling and reduce your average cost per kilogram.
5. Stay updated. UPS reviews its surge fees based on shipping volumes and available capacity. Rates can change with little notice, so visit the UPS Shipping Zones and Rates page before booking your next shipment.

Ship with UPS Through Couriers & Freight

Book and manage UPS shipments directly through Couriers & Freight. Businesses can compare carrier rates, check current surcharges, and handle all shipments in one platform.

Couriers & Freight gives customers clear visibility and control over their UPS deliveries, helping them stay on top of rate changes and international freight costs.

Get an instant quote or speak with our team to plan your next UPS shipment.

Manage UPS Shipments with Confidence

Stay on top of the latest UPS surge fees. Compare carrier rates and plan your international shipments through Couriers & Freight.

Get a Quote Now