Sending a package any time soon? Brace for an expensive surprise

People sending packages by mail or courier this holiday season should brace for an extra expense. © CBC Purolator has posted this chart on its site showing fuel surcharges and current average fuel prices. © Ina Fassbender/AFP via Getty Images High diesel costs are behind a surge in courier and postal fuel surcharges. "The fuel surcharge rates for courier shipments will be applied to the sum of the service rate, additional specialized services and applicable surcharges." Retailers pinched tooThe fuel surcharge affects not just individuals sending packages, but online retailers.