Bergen Logistics

Stay Ahead of Shipping Costs: Key Updates and Tips for 2025

At Bergen Logistics, we’re dedicated to providing our clients with the tools and insights they need to succeed in an ever-evolving logistics landscape. In this Q3 2025 edition of our Preferred Shippers Program newsletter, we cover key shipping updates, cost-saving tools, and new services designed to help you navigate the challenges of peak season. From rising postage rates to same-day delivery options, we’ve got you covered.

USPS Rate Increase — What You Need to Know

Effective July 13, 2025, the US Postal Service (USPS) will implement a postage rate increase as part of its Delivering for America initiative, aimed at maintaining service quality and improving financial sustainability. For our clients, this means an average rate increase of 7.3% on Priority Mail, with the steepest hikes on shipments under 1 lb and up to a 28% increase for packages over 1 lb.

But it’s not all bad news. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Priority Mail: Average rate increase of 7.3%. Some packages, especially those over 1 lb, will experience significant hikes.
  • Ground Advantage (formerly First-Class Package and USPS Retail Ground): An average increase of 7.1%. Lighter shipments to lower zones may not see an increase, while heavier packages will see a modest hike of 2.8%.
  • Priority Mail Express: No change in pricing.

Tip: Consider shifting more shipments to Ground Advantage whenever possible to mitigate these increases. This option offers a more affordable alternative while still maintaining reliable delivery times.

Rate Shopping Now Available — Save More with CloudX WMS

To get started, contact freight@bergenlogistics.com and start saving on your returns today!

In response to rising shipping costs, Bergen Logistics now offers rate shopping through our CloudX WMS platform. This feature allows clients to automatically compare shipping rates across multiple carriers, ensuring they select the most cost-effective option for each order.

Why You Should Use Rate Shopping:

  • Compare multiple carriers: Automatically select the best rate for each shipment.
  • Reduce shipping costs: Choose the most affordable option without compromising service quality.
  • Streamline fulfillment: Integrate rate shopping with Bergen’s Preferred Shipper Program for a seamless experience.

Want to save on shipping costs? Contact us at freight@bergenlogistics.com to learn more about this powerful tool.

Same Day Delivery Launch — Flat-Rate Shipping in NYC

In partnership with Groscale, Bergen Logistics is proud to announce the launch of Same Day Delivery in the New York City metro area. Groscale is a forward-thinking logistics provider that connects shippers with local, independent carriers to enhance delivery efficiency.

What’s New:

  • Access flat-rate same-day delivery via Shopify integration.
  • Convenient for businesses based in NYC, with plans to expand to Los Angeles in the near future.

Why It Matters:
Same-day delivery is a game-changer for time-sensitive shipments, allowing businesses to offer customers a faster and more flexible delivery experience.

Ready to sign up? Contact us at freight@bergenlogistics.com to enroll and learn more.

Save on Returns with Preferred Shipper Rates

At Bergen Logistics, we understand that reverse logistics can be a significant cost burden. That’s why we’ve partnered with leading return platform solutions to help you save on return shipping costs. Our return platform partners include Loop Returns, Happy Returns, Returns Go, and Refundit.

How It Works:

  • Apply Bergen’s negotiated shipping rates to both outbound and return shipments.
  • Streamline the returns process with easy integrations to reduce operational costs.

Tip: Leverage our Preferred Shipper Program for better rates on return shipments and enhance the efficiency of your reverse logistics.

Peak Season Surcharges — Plan Ahead to Save

As we approach the holiday season, parcel carriers are preparing for the busiest time of the year. FedEx has already announced 2025 peak season surcharges, and we expect UPS to follow suit in the coming weeks. These surcharges are designed to cover the increased demand during peak periods and typically mirror the previous year’s structure. However, expect to see higher surcharge amounts in 2025.

Key Takeaways:

  • FedEx and UPS will impose peak season surcharges, including non-volume-based residential fees.
  • Anticipated surcharge increases over 2024 levels.

Tip: Start forecasting your Q4 volumes now to avoid unexpected charges and optimize your budget for the holiday season. Early planning will help you navigate peak season without any surprises.

Contact Us for Help — Let Us Streamline Your Shipping Needs

Bergen Logistics is here to help you optimize your shipping strategies and reduce costs. If you need assistance with any of the following, don’t hesitate to reach out:

  • Set up rate shopping: freight@bergenlogistics.com
  • Enroll in same-day delivery services: freight@bergenlogistics.com
  • Reduce return shipping costs: freight@bergenlogistics.com
  • Plan ahead for peak season surcharges: freight@bergenlogistics.com

We are committed to helping you save on shipping and stay ahead of the curve in the logistics industry. Let us help you maximize your efficiency and cost savings today.

Conclusion — The Bergen Logistics Advantage

In an ever-changing shipping landscape, staying informed and proactive is key. With the USPS rate increase, the launch of same-day delivery, rate shopping, and savings on returns, Bergen Logistics continues to position itself as a leader in logistics and fulfillment. We are here to support your business as you navigate the challenges of peak season and beyond.

Ready to save on shipping and streamline your logistics? Contact us at freight@bergenlogistics.com to learn more about our services and start maximizing your shipping efficiency today.

Ready to get started?

We have strategic, global distribution locations, with fulfillment centers in the US, Canada, Asia, the UK, and the EU.