Diesel jumped to a record U.S. average of $5.85 a gallon on Friday, the first time the fuel has reached that level, as a six-month war with Iran disrupts global fuel supplies.
Because diesel powers much of the nation’s freight and delivery system, the spike is already raising transportation costs for everyday goods.
Some businesses have begun passing those costs to customers through extra fees on online orders and mailed packages, and more of the increase is expected to show up on store shelves.
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The strain is showing up first in grocery aisles, especially for produce, meat and other perishables that must be hauled and restocked often — and, in some cases, harvested with diesel-powered farm equipment. Those costs can take time to fully reach consumers.
Experts warn the pressure will grow the longer diesel stays expensive. Clothing, cosmetics, furniture and many other goods also move by diesel trucks, trains and boats.
The increase could deepen Republicans’ political problems before November’s midterm elections. Many voters already disapprove of President Donald Trump’s handling of the economy and the fallout from the war he launched. An AP-NORC poll this summer found two-thirds of U.S. adults disapproved of his economic management.
Regular gasoline has risen as well, though more slowly than diesel. AAA put the national average at $4.15 a gallon, up from $3.20 a year earlier, and said gas has never been above $4 a gallon on Labor Day.