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When you’re shipping packages, you have a lot of options. Should you use UPS, USPS, or FedEx? The decision might seem minor, but each of the three logistics companies offers a different set of benefits and drawbacks. Let’s look at all three to see which is the best for your shipping needs.
The US Postal Service sits between the line of private service and public government operation. Unlike its main competitors, the USPS can deliver to PO boxes and mailboxes. UPS and FedEx must deliver packages to recipients’ doorsteps. Likewise, the USPS carries all over the country, even in remote regions.
If you’re shipping items under two pounds, the postal service is the way to go. Your local post office offers the best rates for lightweight packages. Even heavier packages can be inexpensive through the postal service if you use a flat rate package. You can ship flat rate boxes over any distance, no matter their weight, as long as their contents fit inside the standardized package.
The main drawback to the USPS is its lack of robust tracking options. Customers also have fewer support options with the post office than through private logistics companies.
UPS is the best option for people who want their packages shipped quickly. The company guarantees that every item they carry gets express shipping treatment. UPS even offers two-day and same-day shipping for some packages. These options can be cost-prohibitive, though, so UPS is best for larger, more valuable items.
Unlike USPS, UPS offers competitive rates for heavier items. People who need to ship large quantities of weightier goods should consider UPS’s rates for packages over 2 pounds. However, UPS does have a few drawbacks. There are no free options for scheduling package drop-offs, increasing UPS’s already-high shipping rates. The service also upcharges for shipping on Saturdays, unlike USPS and FedEx.
FedEx offers the best tracking service of any logistics company. If you want to give yourself peace of mind, use FedEx. You’ll know where your packages are at every step of the shipping process. This feature comes at a cost, though: FedEx is usually more expensive than even UPS. You can offset these costs by setting up either a personal or business account to access discounted rates.
Shipping with FedEx is usually faster than UPS, too. Unlike UPS, FedEx continues carrying items on Saturdays for no extra charge, meaning packages shipped with them often arrive one day sooner.
