USPS Ground Advantage plan could heat up lightweight package rates

The Postal Service wants to nix differences in prices based on weight for sub-pound shipments with its Ground Advantage Commercial offering.

The U.S. Postal Service is planning to eliminate ounce-based rate differences for shipments within its USPS Ground Advantage Commercial service starting on July 12, the agency announced Monday, a move that could sting some lightweight package shippers.
Currently, published prices on sub-pound Ground Advantage Commercial parcels vary, with four distinct weight tiers featuring different rates. The proposed change, which is pending review from the Postal Regulatory Commission, would apply rates currently for shipments weighing between 12 and 15.999 ounces to all sub-pound parcels within the category.
The adjustment would result in an average price increase of 11.8% for Ground Advantage Commercial, according to a filing with the Postal Regulatory Commission. The change wouldn’t impact customers with negotiated commercial rates, the agency said.