How do I Compare UPS & USPS Shipping Costs?

Compare shipping rates online, in-store or over the phone.

UPS and the USPS use different shipping methods and calculations. This results in a difference in price and delivery times. Shopping around before purchasing shipping labels will help you to obtain the best service and value for your money. Obtain quotes for packages over the telephone, in store, or through a simple form on the websites of either company to determine and compare rates.

Things You'll Need

• Shipping scale

Instructions

Record Specifications

1. Calculate the weight of your package by using a packaging scale. Purchase shipping scales from a shipping supply company for more accurate weight than regular household scales. Write down the final weight for each package after the items are in their appropriate packaging.

2. Write down the destination of the package next to the weight. Include the city, state, and zip code of the destination of the package.

3. Measure the size of the package to determine the exact dimensions. Measure the length, width, and height of the package. Record these measurements next to the weight and destination. Use this list to determine how much shipping will be on each package.

UPS

1. Visit the UPS website and click the "Shipping" tab at the top of the screen. You may also call UPS at 1-800-PICK-UPS or visit them directly with your recorded information for shipping rates. Click the "Calculate Time and Cost" option from the drop down menu. Select the button next to "Detailed Time and Cost" for the most accurate estimate.

2. Select the country, city, and zip code that corresponds to both the sender's and the recipient's addresses. indicate whether these addresses are commercial or residential. Select the date you want to ship, along with the number of packages.

3. Input the packaging, weight, and dimensions of the package into the form. Place a value of the package beneath "Declared Value" if you want to purchase insurance for the package. Determine how you will get your package to UPS. You may deliver the package personally or schedule a driver to pick the package up from your home. Press "Next" once you make your selection.

4. View the list of services available to send your package through UPS. Record the shipping amounts and times next to your package information. Use these amounts and time frames to compare with USPS.

USPS

1. Visit the USPS website, call 1-800-ASK-USPS, or go to the nearest post office with your information to compare rates. On the USPS website, click "Calculate Postage" from the red bar at the top of the homepage to view rates online. Select whether you need domestic, international, or business postage.

2. Type your shipping zip code and the destination zip code into the form. Choose the time you plan to mail the package. Determine and select the size of your package or letter. Type the weight in beneath the package icon and press "Continue."

3. View the available shipping methods, prices, and shipping time. Write these down next to the UPS prices. Look at each individual line to determine the cheaper method. Take into account the shipping time of each method to determine the best value for the price.

References

• UPS: Calculate Time and Cost
• United States Postal Service: Calculate Postage

Resources

• UPS: Deliver Service from UPS
• USPS: The United States Postal Service