An Isle of Man agricultural haulage business says it will increase its prices from next month after a Steam Packet fuel surcharge for bringing trailers to the island more than tripled.
J W Kneen & Son Ltd says the surcharge has risen from £62 to £209 plus VAT, adding significantly to its operating costs.
The company also pointed to a 16p per litre increase in road fuel prices earlier this month.
In a statement on social media, the firm said it had absorbed the additional costs throughout October but could no longer do so as a small business.
From November 1, feed prices, livestock transport, container work and general haulage charges will all increase.
The company said the impact of rising shipping costs extends beyond farming, warning that anything brought to the island could be affected. It also called on the island’s newly elected MHKs to examine the surcharge.
J W Kneen & Son Ltd thanked customers for their continued support and expressed hope they would continue to use the business despite the price rises.
Manx.News has contacted the Steam Packet for comment.
