UPS Vs. USPS
When it comes to shipping, a few big names come to mind: FedEx, UPS, and USPS. But what are the differences between these shipping giants? And which one should you use for your business? In this article, we'll break down the pros and cons of each service so you can make an informed decision. Let's get started.
What Is The Difference Between UPS and USPS?
Here's a breakdown of each one's features, costs, and pros/cons:
While both services are similar in that each provides the same service (transport of goods, packages, etc. from point A to point B), they are different in many key ways:
1. Grades of Service & Priority Levels
This is probably one of the most significant differences between UPS and USPS. UPS offers three grades of service, while USPS has none. UPS has its standard, less expensive service for low-value items, along with a more expensive but faster service that covers more valuable items and higher volume deliveries. USPS doesn't have any of this – it's just "Priority" shipping.
2. Pricing Structure
One of the key differences between UPS and USPS is that UPS has a complex pricing structure that is based on a combination of size, weight, and distance, whereas USPS has a flat rate for almost all packages.
3. A Diverse Product Line
USPS is well known for their flagship product – Priority Mail – but they have an incredibly diverse product line which includes First Class, Media Mail, and even Express services.
UPS also has a diverse product line, with different rates and services for almost any package, but their standard service is usually the most expensive.
4. Insured vs. Non-Insured Packages
USPS offers insurance on all Priority packages, while UPS typically insures high-value items. Neither cover regular packages due to low value.
5. Delivery Service Levels
USPS offers two delivery service levels: Priority Mail and Express Mail, with the latter being a faster but more expensive option that is fully trackable. UPS has a much larger range of services, with their most basic level being Business Ground, followed by Home Delivery and then the ever-popular Next Day Air, which is fully trackable.
6. Transit Times
USPS is known for having a slow transit time – typically 3-5 business days – whereas UPS has an average of 1-2 business days, with some services offering next-day or same-day delivery.
7. Size & Weight Restrictions
Both services provide unlimited size and weight options, but there are restrictions on both if you want to receive the lowest rates. USPS will only take packages that don't exceed 70 pounds, while UPS allows up to 150 pounds per package before additional charges apply (or more expensive options have to be used).
8. Tracking Ability/Availability
This is one area where USPS shines as they have full tracking ability available on all Priority Mail packages at no extra cost. In contrast, UPS informs you when the package departs and arrives at both origin and destination. Package tracking is also available with a valid tracking number on all Priority packages, only to the delivery address.
9. Additional Charges
Both services don't charge much for additional services such as Signature Confirmation or Residential Delivery, but USPS does have an advantage over UPS in that they will typically waive add-on charges if your package goes past their usual service area (i.e. if it's too far for them to reach without taking a longer route).
10. International Shipping
USPS offers international shipping options, but not all of them provide full tracking ability because of how expensive it can be, whereas UPS has a wide range of international shipping options, which all come complete with tracking.
What are the Benefits of UPS Shipping?
The benefits of UPS Shipping are:
UPS Packages Are Traceable - One of the best things about UPS Delivery is that your package can be traced every step of the way.
UPS Packages Come With Attention - Grabbing Packaging - There's a reason why people trust their packages to UPS—they know they're going to be safe and secure.
You Can Ship Packages Internationally With UPS Shipping - Whether you're looking to send a package across town or across the globe, UPS can help ensure that your parcel gets where it needs to go.
What are the Benefits of USPS?
The benefits of USPS include:
- USPS Shipping services have benefits like reliable tracking and delivery confirmation which can help small business owners keep track of their shipments and provide convenient customer service.
- The most obvious benefit of using USPS shipping is that they offer lower rates than other commercial carriers such as UPS and FedEx.
- These rates vary based on package size, weight, distance of travel, and time of shipment.
Conclusion:
The United States Postal Service (USPS) and United Parcel Service (UPS) are both parcel delivery services that have been in operation for many years. They are often compared to each other because of the similar services they offer. This blog post will compare UPS and USPS based on price, delivery time, and customer service. We hope this information will help decide which company to use for shipping your parcels.
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