Jersey Post said the price changes have been driven by several external pressures, including the impact of high cost increases from network partners. Jersey Post explained: "Internationally, key global partners have imposed significant increases for handling larger items and parcels. If Jersey Post is to offer a sustainable post office for the long-term without the need for government subsidy, its own rates must be increased in order to cover the rising processing and conveyance costs passed on by these partners."

The company argues that the continuing financial impact of falling letter volumes, with letter mail predicted to decline by 8% by 2018, coupled with an increasing number of households to which Jersey Post must deliver, also contributed to the increased tariffs.

Pictured: The New Jersey Post tariffs.

Niall McClure, Jersey Post’s Managing Director for Post and Logistics, said: "Through our 2017 annual customer survey, our customers highlighted that keeping the cost of the postal service low is a real priority and we have tried to minimise the financial impact of our business and industry change on customers as much as we can. We have worked hard to keep this year’s increases below RPI wherever possible, but as an organisation we continue to face a number of major external challenges.

"In order to support our customers, for the sixth consecutive year, we are committed to offering discounted postage rates at Christmas to ensure islanders can keep in touch with family and friends for less at this important time of year.’