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?
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, a good choice is UPS Ground.
The good news is, when you compare shipping rates with Parcel Monkey, we’ll show you a list of courier 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.
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 for UPS and USPS vary depending on where you're shipping to and the size of your package. Sending a 10lb 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 quote through 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 International 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:
| 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 extend to $500 |
$100 (included) Option to extend to $300 |
Still not sure?
Ask yourself the following questions:
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How large is your package?
Packages over 70lbs will need to be shipped with UPS.
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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.
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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.
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 tool to get started.
Updated December 2021
