As we enter the fourth quarter of the year and head into peak season, companies are not only focused on managing peak season/holiday shipping surges but also on looking ahead to 2026 planning and budgeting. This period brings with it both challenges and opportunities for shippers. Parcel surcharges, hidden fees, and rising fraud incidents continue to drive unnecessary costs and inefficiencies across transportation networks, forcing organizations to rethink their strategies.
One of the most pressing concerns on the horizon is the 2026 General Rate Increase (GRI). With carriers preparing to implement new pricing structures, shippers should be preparing now — not only to understand the impact of these changes but also to mitigate them wherever possible. Beyond the GRI, organizations must also plan for a growing list of added fees, ranging from fluctuating fuel surcharges to newly introduced international processing charges, all of which can quickly erode margins if left unmanaged.
Navigating this environment requires more than reactive measures. Partnering with an organization that can provide clear strategies, data-driven insights, and practical tools is critical to breaking down what to expect in 2026 and how to prepare for the shifting carrier landscape. Forward-looking planning helps shippers stay ahead rather than scrambling to catch up once changes take effect.
Another key consideration in 2026 planning is the accelerating role of artificial intelligence. AI is no longer a buzzword — it’s a transformative force across the shipping and logistics industry. The right use of AI-driven tools can automate tasks such as surcharge detection, optimize delivery routes, and flag fraud in real time. By analyzing vast amounts of parcel data, AI can surface trends, predict risks, and deliver actionable recommendations faster than any manual process could achieve.
The pace of AI adoption is only increasing, and the technology is evolving every day. For shippers, the question is no longer whether AI will impact their business, but how they will harness it to gain a competitive advantage. Companies that integrate AI into their 2026 planning will be better positioned to manage costs, improve efficiency, and deliver better customer experiences.
As you look ahead, ask yourself: Is your organization prepared to adapt to the upcoming GRI and carrier changes, manage the growing complexity of fees, and fully leverage AI to transform your shipping operations? The decisions you make now will set the foundation for your success in 2026 and beyond.
Wanting to learn more about getting started in your 2026 parcel shipping planning process? Parcel Forum, the parcel industry’s leading event, has the perfect session to help you in your next steps. Attend How to Predict & Analyze 2026 Accessorials on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. to get started.
Jack McCrum is the Director of Optimization & Analytics at Reveel, where he helps organizations maximize savings and efficiency through parcel shipping analytics and contract management. Since joining in 2024, he has led key business intelligence initiatives and is passionate about solving complex challenges and driving meaningful client impact.
