Amazon has announced a new 3.5% logistics and fuel surcharge for third-party sellers operating across the United States and Canada, set to take effect from 17 April 2026. The company says the decision reflects rising operational costs, particularly linked to increased fuel prices and wider supply chain pressures.

Fuel costs in the US have climbed to their highest levels in several years. Recent data shows petrol prices averaging over $4 per gallon, while diesel has risen even further. Amazon stated that it had previously absorbed these additional expenses but now needs to pass some of the burden onto sellers using its platform.

The move follows similar actions from other major delivery firms. Companies such as UPS and FedEx have already raised their fuel surcharges, while the US Postal Service has also introduced temporary pricing adjustments to cope with higher transportation costs. These changes highlight the wider impact of increased fuel prices across the logistics sector.

Meanwhile, air freight continues to face cost pressures due to global supply disruptions, particularly linked to the Middle East. Although easing geopolitical tensions may help stabilise rates, industry experts suggest any significant reduction will take time. Even with falling jet fuel prices, analysts warn that shipping costs are unlikely to drop as quickly as they previously rose.