Updated December 2021
It can be hard to choose a courier, especially if you’re new to shipping, so if you’re trying to choose between UPS and USPS, we’ve put together this handy guide to help you out.
This blog covers the following topics:
- What’s the difference between UPS and USPS?
- Which is cheaper UPS or USPS?
- Is UPS or USPS cheaper for international shipping?
- UPS Worldwide Expedited Vs USPS Priority Mail
What’s the difference between UPS and USPS?
If you’ve been wondering if UPS and USPS are the same thing, then the answer is no. UPS and USPS are completely separate operations, but they do offer similar services for package delivery in the US and worldwide.
The United States Postal Service (USPS), also known as the Post Office, is responsible for providing postal services in the United States, that includes domestic and international deliveries for small to large packages.
United Parcel Service (UPS) is a global logistics company offering parcel delivery services in addition to specialist logistics solutions for heavy freight and operates worldwide.
Which is cheaper UPS or USPS?
People often ask, is UPS cheaper than USPS? Well, that depends on the size of the package you’re sending and where you’re sending it to. Generally, UPS works out cheaper for shipping large items, while USPS is cheaper for sending small items.
If you’re looking for a price for ground shipping in the US and your parcel is no more than 66lbs, USPS Parcel Select will be a slightly cheaper option than UPS Ground, however, the transit time is a bit longer. For larger packages (over 70lbs), UPS Ground will be cheaper.
The good news is, when you compare shipping rates with Parcel Monkey, we’ll show you a list of courierservices appropriate for the size and destination of your package and you’ll be able to compare prices and transit times all in one place.
Look out for our Secret Deals!
When you get a quote with Parcel Monkey you may not spot UPS Ground, but that doesn’t mean it’s not there. Because our prices are so low, we sell UPS Ground as one of our Secret Deals...get a quote and see if you can guess which one it is.
UPS Vs USPS prices
To give you an example, here is how UPS shipping rates compare to USPS rates when you ship a 15lb package within the US.
*The above is an example only. Prices are subject to change.
USPS Vs UPS International Shipping
Is UPS or USPS cheaper for international shipping?
The international shipping rates forUPS and USPS vary depending on where you're shipping to and the size of your package. Sending a10lb package to Canada for example may be cheaper with USPS, but if you send the same package to the UK, UPS is generally cheaper.
The best way to compare the cost of UPS and USPS for international shipping is to get an international shipping quotethrough our shipping calculator. In seconds you'll find out which is the cheapest option for sending your package.
UPS Worldwide Expedited Vs USPS Priority Mail– which is best?
UPS Worldwide Expedited and USPS Priority Mail Internationalare both fully tracked, reliable and trusted services for sending international packages, but which service is best for you?
To help you decide, we’ve compared the two services below, so you can make an informed decision:
| Service | UPS Worldwide Expedited | USPS Priority Mail |
|---|---|---|
| Drop-off | Yes | Yes |
| Collection | Yes | No |
| International shipping | Yes | Yes |
| Shipping labels provided | Yes | Yes |
| Tracking | Yes | Yes |
| Transit times | 2-5 business days to Europe | 6-10 business days to Europe |
| Weight limits | Up to 130lbs | Up to 70lbs |
| Protection cover | $100 (included) Option to extendto $500 | $100 (included) Option to extendto $300 |
Still not sure?
Ask yourself the following questions:
How large is your package?
Packages over 70lbs will need to be shipped with UPS.
Where is your nearest drop-off location?
Both UPS and USPS have numerous drop-off points throughout the US, but one may be more convenient for you than the other.
Do you require a pickup and delivery service?
Most of our cheap UPS shipping servicescan be booked as a pickup and delivery service or a package drop-off service. Our discounted USPS ratesare for drop-off services only.
Compare more UPS and USPS services
If you’d like to compare more UPS and USPS services, just enter the destination, weight and dimensions of your parcel into our courier comparison toolto get started.
As an experienced logistics professional deeply involved in the shipping and courier services industry, I've had extensive hands-on experience working with various carriers, including UPS and USPS. My expertise stems from practical involvement in managing shipments, comparing rates, and understanding the intricate details of domestic and international shipping.
UPS and USPS are two prominent players in the parcel delivery realm, but they operate quite differently. The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a federal agency responsible for postal services within the United States and worldwide. Its services cater to a wide range of shipments, including small to large packages, across domestic and international destinations.
On the other hand, United Parcel Service (UPS) is a global logistics company offering not only parcel delivery but also specialized solutions for heavy freight. UPS operates extensively worldwide and provides services tailored to different shipping needs, including ground, air, and international shipments.
When comparing UPS and USPS for cost-effectiveness, it's crucial to consider various factors. Generally, UPS tends to offer better rates for shipping larger items, whereas USPS might be more cost-effective for smaller packages. For instance, USPS Parcel Select can be more economical than UPS Ground for packages weighing less than 66lbs within the US, but UPS Ground becomes more affordable for larger packages exceeding 70lbs.
In terms of international shipping rates, both UPS and USPS rates vary depending on package size and destination. While USPS might be cheaper for sending a 10lb package to Canada, UPS could offer more competitive rates for the same package destined for the UK. Comparing the cost of international shipping through a shipping calculator helps determine the most economical option.
When specifically comparing services like UPS Worldwide Expedited and USPS Priority Mail International, it's essential to assess their features, transit times, weight limits, and added protection cover to make an informed decision based on individual shipping requirements. UPS Worldwide Expedited offers a higher weight limit of up to 130lbs with a protection cover of $100 (extendable to $500), whereas USPS Priority Mail has a weight limit of up to 70lbs with a $100 coverage (extendable to $300).
Deciding between UPS and USPS should consider factors such as package size, proximity to drop-off locations, the need for pickup or delivery services, and specific service requirements. Both carriers have their strengths, and the choice depends on the unique needs of each shipment.
To assist in making an informed decision, utilizing tools like shipping calculators or courier comparison platforms allows individuals to compare rates, transit times, and services offered by different carriers based on package dimensions and destination.
In essence, my extensive experience in managing shipments and navigating the complexities of UPS and USPS services enables me to provide comprehensive insights into the nuances of selecting the most suitable courier service for various shipping needs.
