Navigating the 2025 Peak Season: Amazon’s New Surcharge Plan and Its Impact on China–U.S. Logistics

As Goodship56, a logistics company specialized in China–U.S. sea and air freight, customs clearance, and last-mile delivery, we closely monitor developments that affect global supply chains.

Amazon’s latest update is particularly relevant: the e-commerce giant has announced new peak season surcharges for 2025, directly impacting both international sellers and U.S. logistics operations.

These changes reflect not only Amazon’s growing dominance in logistics but also the evolving cost pressures within the China–U.S. trade corridor.

Amazon Announces 2025 Peak Season Surcharges

Amazon confirmed that its Amazon Shipping network will apply peak season surcharges from October 26, 2025, through January 17, 2026, covering the full holiday rush period.

During this time, sellers using Amazon’s fulfillment and delivery services — including Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) — will face higher delivery costs across multiple categories.

Three Phases of Surcharges

The surcharge plan will roll out in three distinct phases, reflecting shifts in demand intensity:

* October 26 – November 22, 2025:

  $0.40 demand surcharge per parcel; $8.25 for additional handling; $90 for large packages; $485 for extra-heavy packages.

* November 23 – December 27, 2025:

  $0.60 per parcel; $10.80 for additional handling; $107 for large packages; $540 for extra-heavy packages.

* December 28, 2025 – January 17, 2026:

  Surcharges return to early-season levels — $0.40 per parcel; $8.25 handling; $90 large package; $485 heavy package.

Amazon explained the adjustment helps maintain service quality during the busiest logistics period of the year.

Impact on Sellers and Logistics Providers

For Amazon sellers, especially those using FBA, these surcharges mean higher operational costs and tighter margins.

Many may turn to third-party logistics providers (3PL) like Goodship56 for alternative shipping strategies that balance cost and delivery time.

From a broader market view, Amazon’s move aligns with UPS and FedEx’s long-standing peak pricing models — showing its determination to remain a leading logistics force in the U.S.

Goodship56’s Tips for Businesses

1. Ship Early:

Plan your ocean and air shipments before the surcharge period begins to control costs.

2. Optimize Packaging:

Avoid large or heavy classifications by reviewing carton dimensions and weight.

3. Diversify Shipping Channels:

Combine China–U.S. freight with U.S. domestic delivery through flexible 3PL solutions.

4. Update Pricing Strategies:

Include surcharges in your pricing models and communicate transparently with customers.

5. Stay Informed:

Follow logistics updates from Amazon, UPS, and Goodship56 to adjust operations promptly.

Conclusion

Amazon’s 2025 peak season surcharge is another sign that logistics networks are under heavy pressure.

For cross-border businesses, flexibility and early planning are essential.

Goodship56 continues to provide end-to-end China–U.S. logistics solutions — including ocean and air freight, customs clearance, and final-mile delivery — ensuring that your supply chain stays efficient through every market shift.