Matson Navigation Co. is boosting its fuel surcharge for shipments between Hawaii and the mainland by 5 percentage points effective Feb. 26.
The increase to 45.5 percent from 40.5 percent follows three consecutive decreases totaling 7 percentage points from August through October. The new rate matches the second highest ever charged.
On average most customers will see increased shipping costs ranging from $120 to $200 per container.
"We’re going to eventually have to all move back with our parents and grandparents with the way things are going," said Pearl City resident Eli Lopez. "It’s just going to get higher and higher. Things as simple as rice, which at one time was always under $10, now you can barely find it on sale for that price."
A call seeking comment by rival Horizon Lines Inc. was not returned. Pasha Hawaii Transport Lines said it is analyzing the market and will determine next week whether to match Matson’s increase.
"The fuel has gone up, so consideration will be given in increasing our rates," said Reggie Maldonado, Pasha spokesman.
Matson, the state’s largest ocean shipper, said bunker fuel prices have risen more than 16 percent since its last rate adjustment.
"While we were encouraged by the moderation of bunker fuel prices in the second half of 2011, that trend has been reversed in recent months," said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president of ocean services, in a statement. "Matson recognizes that energy costs are a major concern for all businesses, as well as consumers. Unfortunately, transportation companies are especially hard hit, with fuel consumption an unavoidable and significant component of operating costs."
A rise in commodity prices could affect the health of Hawaii residents, Lopez said.
"I can definitely see how it can affect healthy eating habits. I know some people that have got to buy what they can afford, and a lot of times what you can afford is not the healthiest thing for you," he said.
Moana Raymond, an employee of HFM Foodservice Corp., which distributes food statewide as well as in Guam, Micronesia and Palau, said, "It’s not only food; it’s the gas, it’s your clothing. Everything has to come in on Matson. It’s not going to get any better. Everything comes from the mainland. We all have no choice. Every time you go to the grocery store, it’s going to cost you."
