After a period of relative stability in paper pricing, rising transportation costs are creating a new variable for print buyers to watch heading into 2027.
Industry experts have identified elevated diesel costs as an emerging cost pressure, leading several North American paper manufacturers to introduce fuel surcharges. Depending on the supplier, current surcharges generally range from $20 to $25 per ton, with implementation beginning between October and November.
Why This Matters for Print Buyers
Fuel surcharges are designed to offset unusually high transportation costs rather than function as permanent paper price increases. Several suppliers have established thresholds for removing their surcharges if diesel prices fall and remain below specified levels for several consecutive weeks.
However, if diesel remains elevated, these additional mill costs could put upward pressure on the paper prices printers pay as 2027 begins. Fuel-related surcharges are also appearing on inks, coatings and press supplies, although we have not yet received information about those potential increases.
That cost pressure comes despite relatively soft paper demand. September paper prices were unchanged, while 2027 forecasts continue to point toward weaker demand in several major paper categories. Fastmarkets also identified elevated diesel prices as a source of upside price risk, particularly for mechanical grades where producers are already dealing with cost inflation.
Looking Ahead
Fuel surcharges from paper mills are adding a new cost to the paper market. These surcharges are meant to be temporary, and many mills have set conditions for removing them once fuel prices come down. If fuel costs stay high, paper pricing may keep rising.
The market remains fluid. Walsworth will continue to monitor mill announcements, fuel costs and paper pricing, and we will share more information as it becomes available. For questions about a specific project, please contact your Walsworth sales representative or get in touch with us today.
Sources
- Lindenmeyr Central Paper Market Update October 2026
- Fastmarkets Paper Trader August 2026
- Boise Market Update October 2026
