UPS on Nov. 9 announced new list rates for 2008. The average increase of 4.9 percent for ground, hundredweight, all air express and U.S. origin international shipments will take effect on Dec. 31.

This is the first time UPS has pushed the effective date for new rates back into the previous year, if only by one day.

UPS will knock 2 percent off its current fuel surcharge for air express and international shipments but the base rate will go up 6.9 percent.

The carrier said it will post updated rate and service information on its Web site beginning Nov. 16. Customers will be able to download their own copy of the 2008 Rate and Service Guide beginning Dec. 31, when the rates become effective.