UPS vs. USPS: Shipping Comparison in 2025

UPS and USPS are differentiated by only one letter – both are internationally acclaimed courier services that offer affordable domestic and global shipping options and their own unique advantages and disadvantages for eCommerce businesses.

However, UPS vs. USPS, especially UPS® Ground vs. USPS Priority Mail, has been hotly debated by many eCommerce companies - so choosing between UPS and USPS for your eCommerce company largely depends on your specific business needs, given their advantages and disadvantages.

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Which Courier is Best for Your eCommerce Business?

USPS is often a better option for smaller packages less than 13 pounds while UPS offers better value for shipping larger, heavier packages. UPS also offers real-time tracking updates, making it a great choice for companies shipping internationally.

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By comparing the UPS and USPS features and taking a close look at UPS vs. USPS prices, online merchants can understand how they compare and decide which one is the better option for their own business.

Below's a quick look at their differences, how two of their most popular services compare, rate and delivery time information, what they offer, their advantages and disadvantages, and which one is best for your eCommerce company.

What is the Difference Between UPS and USPS?

Generally, USPS is designed to ship smaller packages and mail quickly and cost-effectively, while UPS is more affordable for shipping larger parcels worldwide.

Both UPS and USPS are two very different entities. The main difference stems from their very different backgrounds.

Choosing the right courier is critical for eCommerce sellers. UPS and USPS serve different needs depending on package size, delivery speed, and destination. Here’s a detailed comparison.

UPS

Founded in 1907, UPS (United Parcel Service) is the world’s largest private package delivery company, offering logistics and freight services. It is best used for larger parcels, international shipments, and time-sensitive deliveries requiring reliable tracking.

Some of its key services are as follows:

• UPS Express Critical®: The fastest UPS option, available 24/7, 365 days a year. This service uses all available shipping methods to ensure timely delivery but comes at a higher cost.
• UPS Next Day Air®: This service delivers packages with Early and Saver options the next business day. Early deliveries happen in the afternoon, while Saver packages arrive after 4 PM local time.
• UPS 2nd Day Air® and UPS 3 Day Select®: These options are good for less urgent shipments. 2nd Day Air® delivers within two business days, while 3 Day Select® ensures delivery within three business days.
• UPS® Ground: UPS's most economical service is delivering packages within 1 to 5 business days. This option is affordable but not ideal for urgent deliveries.
• UPS Worldwide Express: This category guarantees delivery for international shipments to more than 185 countries in 1-3 days. Worldwide Saver Express offers similar delivery options but with guaranteed afternoon deliveries. 
• Worldwide Express Plus offers a guaranteed 1-3 day morning delivery from 65+ countries to 30 countries. 
• Worldwide Economy DDU : It is a low-cost deferred international small parcel service designed for low-weight (4 pounds), low-value shipments.

USPS

Established in 1775 and reorganized in 1971, USPS is a U.S. government agency handling letters and smaller packages domestically and internationally. It is best for affordable shipping for small packages, domestic or international, especially ≤2 lbs.

• Priority Mail Express: The fastest USPS option, delivering overnight 7 days a week.
• Priority Mail: This service delivers packages in 1 to 3 business days with flat rates available for packages under 70 pounds.
• Ground Advantage: A new service combining Parcel Select Ground® and First-Class Package® for faster delivery of packages up to 70 pounds within 2 to 5 business days.
• First-Class Mail: Designed for small packages and envelopes weighing 13 ounces or less. Delivery typically takes 1 to 3 days.
• Retail Ground: For oversized packages, this economical service delivers within 2 to 8 business days when time isn't a factor.
• USPS Media Mail: This is a special category that only ships books, academic materials, and multimedia items like CDs,

Here’s a helpful table on the USPS website that gives a deep dive into various USPS services.

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UPS vs USPS Comparison

UPS® Ground vs. USPS Priority

UPS® Ground and USPS Priority Mail are the most popular courier services. Here’s a quick look at how they compare:

• Package tracking is essential for international shipping, as it gives the customer security and increases the courier's reliability. USPS has had a less than reliable reputation in this regard in the past, though it has increased its reliability through using improved tracking methods. On the other hand, UPS has always had a solid reputation for tracking packages.
• Regarding the speed of delivery, USPS Priority is generally seen as superior, delivering typically in two to three business days instead of up to two weeks with UPS® Ground.
• When comparing USPS vs. UPS rates, USPS Priority Mail is considerably more affordable than UPS® Ground, especially if you’re shipping packages two pounds or less. USPS Priority also offers flat rate boxes allowing multiple shipped items.

UPS vs. USPS Rates

Which is cheaper UPS or USPS, is a crucial question when comparing any shipping carriers. UPS is often more expensive than USPS due to fees and surcharges, especially when it comes to shipping smaller packages.

Generally, USPS offers much better rates when shipping smaller packages of less than two pounds. UPS typically is a better choice when shipping heavy packages, or large packages by offering superior value.

Related: How to Ship a Package USPS: What You Need to Know

Example shipping rates for a 5-pound package

*Example rates are for a 5 x 5 x 5 package from New York to Los Angeles. The UPS rates listed are UPS daily rates and are subject to change

Discount rates for a 5-pound package with Easyship

The UPS rates listed are UPS daily rates and are subject to change

Discount rates for a 5-pound package with Easyship

Origin - New York

Destination - Los Angeles

Weight of the package: 5 pounds

Dimension - 5x5x5 in

USPS Rate List