When it comes to shipping packages within the United States, UPS and USPS Priority Mail are two of the most popular options. Both offer reliable delivery services, but there are some key differences between the two that customers should be aware of. This article will compare UPS and USPS Priority Mail in terms of cost, speed, tracking capabilities, insurance, restrictions, and other factors to consider when deciding which shipping carrier best meets your needs.
Cost
One of the biggest differences between UPS and USPS Priority Mail is how each carrier calculates shipping costs. UPS uses a zone-based pricing system based on the package’s origin and destination. Rates are determined by the package’s weight and dimensions, with additional surcharges added for fuel, residential delivery, or other special services. In general, costs go up the farther a package is traveling from origin to destination. USPS Priority Mail has a simpler flat-rate pricing structure. USPS offers several flat-rate shipping options where the price stays the same regardless of destination, as long as the package fits within set size and weight limits. Going over those limits results in additional charges. USPS Priority Mail Flat Rate pricing includes:
- Small Flat Rate Box – $9.45
- Medium Flat Rate Box – $16.10
- Large Flat Rate Box – $21.50
- Flat Rate Envelope – $8.45
- Legal Flat Rate Envelope – $8.95
- Padded Flat Rate Envelope – $9.65
In general, Priority Mail Flat Rate can provide significant cost savings compared to UPS for shipping smaller packages long distances. However, for heavier packages or pallet shipping, UPS zone-based rates are often more affordable. USPS Priority Mail Express offers guaranteed 1-2 day delivery similar to UPS Next Day Air, but at a lower cost in many cases.
Speed
UPS and USPS Priority Mail have different guaranteed delivery timeframes:
| Service | Delivery Time |
|---|---|
| UPS Ground | 1-5 business days |
| UPS 3 Day Select | 3 business days |
| UPS 2nd Day Air | 2 business days |
| UPS Next Day Air | Next business day |
| USPS Priority Mail | 1-3 business days |
| USPS Priority Mail Express | Next day |
UPS offers more guaranteed delivery options for quicker transit times, whereas USPS Priority Mail delivery time is less precise. However, for the fastest delivery of 1-2 days, UPS Next Day Air and USPS Priority Express are very comparable. UPS also offers same day delivery for urgent packages through its Express Critical service.
Tracking
Both UPS and USPS Priority Mail provide package tracking services so senders and recipients can follow the progress of shipments. However, UPS offers more detailed tracking with frequent updates at each step of the delivery process. USPS Priority Mail tracking is less precise, often only showing the origin scan, destination scan, and delivery confirmation. UPS also has robust tracking features and delivery notifications through its website and mobile app. USPS tracking capabilities are generally less advanced.
Insurance
UPS and USPS Priority Mail both provide insurance to cover loss or damage, but UPS insurance offers higher maximum coverage. UPS allows shippers to insure packages up to $100,000 for an additional fee. USPS Priority Mail insurance only covers up to $50,000 for most domestic packages.
Restrictions
In terms of restrictions, USPS Priority Mail has more limitations on package contents and dimensions. UPS does not have extensive restrictions on what can be shipped as long as it is legal and safely packed. USPS prohibits shipping certain hazardous materials, restricted items like alcohol, and has set size and weight thresholds for Priority Mail depending on the specific service used. USPS provides a detailed list of Priority Mail restrictions customers must adhere to.
Drop-Off and Pickup
In terms of access points for dropping off packages, UPS and USPS both have extensive retail networks. UPS has over 5,000 drop off locations such as The UPS Store, UPS Access Point locations, authorized resellers, and drop boxes. USPS has over 31,000 post office retail locations, significantly more than UPS. This makes it very convenient for customers to drop off USPS Priority Mail packages. However, UPS offers greater convenience for pickup services. Customers can schedule free UPS pickups to have drivers pick up outgoing packages from their home or office. USPS pickup options are more limited.
Shipping Discounts
Both carriers offer discounts that can provide significant savings for high volume shippers. UPS discounts include volume pricing for customers that average certain package volumes per week. USPS Offer similarly discounted Commercial Plus Pricing and other savings for business customers that meet minimum shipping requirements. Negotiating custom shipping contracts with discounts is an option with both carriers as well.
Extra Services
UPS and USPS Priority Mail offer some differing extra services. Notable UPS extras include:
- UPS My Choice – Free program that provides delivery alerts and options to reschedule deliveries
- UPS CampusShip – Discounted and simplified shipping services for colleges/universities
- Worldwide services – Ocean and air freight shipping for international packages
USPS Priority Mail extras include:
- USPS free package pickup
- Flat-rate packaging like Priority Mail envelopes and boxes
- Hold for pickup service – Pick up packages at the post office
Conclusion
In summary, UPS and USPS Priority Mail both provide reliable and affordable shipping, but some key differences to consider are:
- UPS zone-based pricing compared to USPS Priority Mail flat rates
- Faster guaranteed delivery times with UPS Next Day Air and Ground
- More detailed tracking and notifications with UPS
- Higher insurance coverage offered by UPS
- Extensive retail locations for USPS dropoff
- Free scheduled pickups offered by UPS
When choosing between the two, the best option often depends on factors like where the package is going, how quickly it needs to arrive, package contents and value, and pickup/dropoff logistics. For occasional residential shipping USPS Priority Mail is likely the more budget-friendly choice. But for time-sensitive business deliveries, UPS ground and air services provide faster and more reliable transit and tracking. Examining the unique shipping needs of each customer is important to determine if UPS or USPS Priority Mail is a better fit.