USPS Vs UPS

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.

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 packages, 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 UPS and USPS services appropriate for the size and destination of your package and you’ll be able to compare prices and transit times all in one place.

UPS Vs USPS prices

To give you an example, here is how UPS shipping rates compare to USPS rates when you ship a 2lb 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?

When you get an international shipping quote with Parcel Monkey, we offer significantly discounted rates on UPS Worldwide Expedited, making it a cheaper option for sending parcels internationally than USPS Priority or Priority Mail Express.

UPS Worldwide Expedited Vs USPS Priority Mail Express – which is best?  

UPS Worldwide Expedited and USPS Priority Mail Express are 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:

Still not sure?

Ask yourself the following questions:

How large is your parcel?

Packages over 66lbs 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.

Find your nearest UPS drop off point

Find your nearest Post Office

Do you require a pickup and delivery service?

Most of our cheap UPS shipping services can be booked as a pickup and delivery service or a package drop-off service. Our discounted USPS rates are for drop-off services only.