Your holiday packages just got more expensive to ship

Driving the news: The Postal Service announced seasonal surcharges for Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express and USPS Ground Advantage, now in effect.

By the numbers:

• Shipping packages weighing up to 3 pounds costs an additional 50 cents to $1 for Priority Mail, depending on distance, or 50 to 75 cents more for Ground Advantage.

• Priority Mail Flat Rate shipping costs $1 more for most packages and $2.10 more for large flat-rate boxes.
• Heavier packages sent longer distances can cost considerably more, with some Priority Mail Express increases reaching $20.80.

The big picture: USPS says the temporary increases will help cover additional handling costs during the holiday rush and bring its pricing in line with competitors.

Yes, but: The increases don't affect First-Class Mail stamps or other services outside the specified package categories.

What's next: The temporary rates are scheduled to expire Jan. 17.