Diesel prices hit a record high, pushing up transportation costs for a long list of goods

Diesel in the United States hit a record average of $5.85 per gallon on Friday, the first time it has crossed that mark, as a six-month conflict involving Iran disrupts global fuel flows. Because diesel powers much of freight and delivery, higher prices are expected to feed into transportation costs for everyday goods, with some businesses already adding fees to online orders and mail packages. Grocery prices could face early pressure, especially for produce, meat and other perishables that require frequent hauling and diesel-powered farming equipment. Analysts warn the impact could worsen if diesel stays expensive. Regular gasoline also rose, averaging $4.15 per gallon versus $3.20 a year earlier, but not as sharply.