UPS has increased its rates by an average of 4% effective 2010 for UPS ground packages and an average net increase of 4.9% on all air express and U.S. origin international shipments.

The rate increase for air express and international shipments is based on a 6.9% increase in the base rate, less a 2% reduction in the air and international fuel surcharge index.

Also effective January 4, fuel surcharge tables for air express and ground services will be adjusted. The company says that changes will better align air and ground fuel surcharges and will substantially reduce the volatility of air surcharges when fuel prices fluctuate. (EHL)