Tensions in the Middle East have triggered a sharp increase in international oil prices, leading to sustained rises in U.S. domestic fuel costs. According to the latest data released by the American Automobile Association on the 3rd, the national average price for diesel has climbed to $5.533 per gallon, marking an increase of over 40% within a single month. In response to mounting expenses, e-commerce giant Amazon.com recently announced it will impose a 3.5% fuel surcharge on sellers in North America utilizing its logistics services.
As reported by CNBC on the 2nd, starting April 17 local time, Amazon will apply the 3.5% fuel surcharge to sellers in the United States and Canada who use its warehousing and logistics services. Beginning May 2, the surcharge will also extend to sellers using the "Prime" and "Multi-Channel Fulfillment" options.
In its notification, Amazon.com stated that ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and rising oil prices have driven up logistics and delivery costs. The company has absorbed these expenses thus far. To alleviate operational pressures, Amazon will follow the lead of other carriers by temporarily implementing the surcharge. However, the company did not specify an end date for this additional fee. Statistics indicate that Amazon.com hosts approximately 2 million sellers globally, with the majority using its "Fulfilled by Amazon" service.
Estimates suggest the surcharge will add an average of 17 cents (approximately 1.2 RMB) per item, with the exact amount varying based on product size and specifications. Sellers will determine how much of this added cost will be passed on to consumers.
Recently, due to increasing fuel prices, several major U.S. logistics providers and organizations, including the United States Postal Service, UPS, and FedEx, have adopted similar measures.
