In the US, the two big nuclear powered ways of shipping your package are USPS and UPS. Each provides a number of services depending on what you are shipping, from small parcels to medium to larger packages but making the decision between USPS shipping and UPS depends on such things as cost, speed and package size. This blog will help you differentiate between the two and decide what is best for your shipping reservations.
USPS 2-day: Not as cheap but good for smaller packages
The USPS (United States Postal Service) is famous for having some of the lowest rates available, especially on smaller, lighter weight shipments. For those who want to carry a 20-pound or less package, USPS is usually for business or individual shipping. One of the significant benefits that you can have, using USPS is flat-rate boxes through its Priority Mail service where you can send items in the size of boxes rather weight. That can be an out-and-out lifesaver when you’re sending heavier items that fill a small box.
Again, what helps USPS shipping is their offering of First-Class Mail on packages under 13 ounces which can be a very cost-effective solution for certain types of light-economy goods. Moreover, the USPS literally delivers to every address in the US (P.O. boxes and rural areas too) and usually there are no added fees involved. For e-commerce vendors whose customers are dispersed throughout the US, this makes it easy to go with USPS.
Even though USPS shipping is generally cheaper, keep in mind that the deliver times can be all over the place. Typically, Standard Priority Mail is delivered within 1–3 business days, but this can be a longer time today for services like First-Class Mail depending on the destination.
UPS Shipping (Better for Larger/heavier packages)
UPS- The United Parcel Service is one of the most trusted services available, especially for those considering shipping out heavier packages. UPS GroundUPS: UPS is a bit cheaper when it comes to medium- and larger-sized parcels; delivery times are generally more predictable than USPS Priority Mail, typically falling in the neighborhood of 1-5 business days depending on how far away you’re shipping from.
The main benefit of using UPS shipping is the comprehensive tracking system in place – this serves to keep customers across the planet informed on where exactly their shipment is at all times. It is therefore perfect for companies shipping more expensive items or those requiring absolute delivery times. Furthermore, the time frames that UPS offers — say next-day delivery or two-day air shipping — are pretty important for those shipments that need to get to a specific destination sooner rather than later.
When it comes to larger items, UPS shipping is typically even better since their dimensional weight calculation usually ends up with fewer charges for bigger packaging than USPS. The problem, though, is that it might not always end up being the most affordable choice for those markets when you are sending smaller lightweight items because of its tractions per low base shipping rates.
Depending on how much time you have, and if you want to shell out some extra cash, will help determine whether or not using USPS shipping or UPS shipping is best suited for your package.
USPS shipping is typically the cheaper option for small, lightweight packages, especially with flat-rate boxes and First-Class Mail.
UPS: UPS is often a better option for larger or heavier packages, offering competitive ground rates and solid delivery times.
If you need a shipment faster, UPS offers its express shipping services — such as UPS Next Day Air — to get your package there in time, though it will typically cost more than Priority Mail Express from USPS.
Conclusion
Each has its benefits based on what you are shipping. It offers nationwide delivery, even to the most rural of areas in the US, and excels in affordability for small to lightweight package sizes. UPS is great for bigger packages, fast deliveries and has amazing package tracking. You can weigh the strengths of each knowing which shipping solution caters more for your business or personal shipments, balancing cost against delivery speed while taking into account reliability.