Everything that happens in a provider's network - affects the entire network and prices rise to cover.
That said - we're 2 years in and the excuse of "Covid, lack of infrastructure and labor costs" are just that - an excuse, not a reason now for surcharges.
Small package or parcel is "final mile" logistics where density has a ton to do with cost - and it's hard to drive out costs when you don't have it. Depending on OD pair - you may have seen increases there as well as cost of insurance for a firearm.
UPS is so far in bed with Amazon - when Amazon does their own logistics, it's going to kill them. The new CEO - while making waves, might not be all that great at keeping UPS the juggernaut it is as well. I think Coyote is helping their bottom line by more than a little bit.
Article here on FedEx and surcharges - things referenced are pretty applicable to everyone.
FedEx Surcharges
