The price of gas has been a bit of a roll-a-coaster this summer. Just when there appeared to be some daylight, prices have made a pivotal turn. As we head into the middle of August, gas prices are now at an average of $3.67 per gallon in the US per the AAA. This is $.29 more than a month ago, when it appeared gas prices would level off for the months to come. The price of oil has increased $6 per barrel for three days straight this week reported the Washington Post.

Some states are experiencing an even higher gas price average according to the AAA daily fuel gauge. For example, Michigan has an average gas price of $3.94. California's average was already at $3.98 per gallon, however, is forecasted to eclipse the $4 mark after yesterday's refinery disaster. A fire damaged one of the nation's largest oil refineries and will hinder gas production for some weeks. California does not have the capability of replacing the gas with imports easily, therefore, making it probable for a large short-term spike of price increases.

The economies of several countries is having a lot to do with the price increase. The weak economy of Europe and the slow economies of the US and China, are all having impacts on oil. All are pushing to strengthen their respective economies, yet at the same time, inform the Middle East of higher demand. As demand increases, so does the price per barrel. Also, the war on Syria is affecting oil prices as well. "Weeks of violence in Syria have some concerned about a regional conflict", said Tradition Energy Broker and Analyst Gene McGillian.

Gas appears to continue to fluctuate for the remainder of the year. With these issues looming ahead, businesses will have to keep a watch on their own transportation costs. One delivery alternative for companies to using their own fleet and employees in many areas is to use a courier. Atlanta Courier services such as AQuickDelivery can make your local same-day delivery in Atlanta at a lower cost because of route optimizations and transportation expertise. It may indeed make sense to use couriers because of the overall operation efficiency and speed they can offer to your business.

References: 8.8.12, Washington Post/Associated Press-Oil slips after gaining for 3 straight days; gas prices nearly $3.65 per gallon; AAA Daily Fuel Gauge