Compare Shipping Rates for USPS vs. UPS
Every shipment is different but your goal is always the same: get it there fast, for less.
With Stamps.com, you can instantly compare USPS and UPS shipping rates side by side, access exclusive online discounts, and print labels for both carriers in one place.
No more switching between websites or guessing which carrier costs less.
Find the cheapest shipping rates with Stamps.com
Stamps.com gives you real-time rate comparisons so you always pick the cheapest and most efficient shipping option — every single time.
See how they compare: USPS vs. UPS shipping rates and services
From rate shopping to customs clearance, Stamps.com centralizes the workflows you use every day so you can scale to new markets without adding busywork. Below is a general comparison based on publicly published 2025 rates for common package types (Zone 5, medium distance).
Rates vary based on weight, dimensions, and delivery speed — but this gives you a sense of where each carrier shines.
(5 lb package)
Small parcel under 1 lb
USPS First-Class Package
UPS Ground Saver
USPS: ~$4.75 / UPS: ~$6.40
Lightweight ecommerce items
2–5 lb package
USPS Priority Mail
UPS Ground
USPS: ~$9.80 / UPS: ~$10.25
Fast, affordable midweight shipping
10–20 lb package
USPS Retail Ground / Priority Mail Cubic
UPS Ground / 3-Day Select
USPS: ~$16–22 / UPS: ~$17–24
Medium parcels or multi-zone shipping
Over 20 lb package
USPS Retail Ground
UPS Ground / 2nd Day Air
USPS: ~$28+ / UPS: ~$25+
Heavy or bulky shipments
Overnight delivery
USPS Priority Mail Express
UPS Next Day Air
USPS: ~$28–$40 / UPS: ~$32–$46
Time-critical deliveries
Compare and save with Stamps.com
Shipping costs can vary based on weight, delivery speed, and distance — but they don’t have to be a mystery. Stamps.com lets you get the freedom of multiple carriers — without the complexity:
Instantly compare USPS vs. UPS mailing and shipping rates for any package or envelope.
Access commercial-grade discounts you won’t get on carrier websites.
Print labels and track shipments for both carriers in one dashboard.
Save up to 84% off retail rates through exclusive Stamps.com pricing.
Automate carrier selection to always choose the lowest available rate.
When USPS Might Be Cheaper
- Lightweight packages (under 1 lb) often cost less with USPS First-Class Mail®.
- Flat Rate boxes are ideal for heavy items traveling long distances.
- USPS offers Saturday delivery at no extra cost.
- Best for smaller businesses and individual sellers shipping frequently but in lower volumes.
When UPS Might Be Cheaper
- Heavier packages (10 lb+) often ship for less with UPS Ground.
- Includes built-in tracking and guaranteed delivery times.
- Excellent for commercial or bulk shippers who value detailed logistics and insurance coverage.
- Offers discounted pickup options for business accounts through Stamps.com.
The Stamps.com Advantage: One Platform, Every Carrier
Stamps.com takes the complexity out of multi-carrier shipping. With one subscription, you can:
- Compare USPS, UPS, and DHL rates instantly.
- Print shipping labels for all carriers from one dashboard.
- Apply automated rules that select the cheapest or fastest service.
- Access built-in tracking, analytics, and delivery reports.
- Save time by managing every shipment without leaving your desk.
Your business doesn’t need multiple logins or contracts — just Stamps.com.
Discounted Rates
❌ Retail Only
❌ Retail Only
✅ Up to 84% Off
Compare Carriers
❌ No
❌ No
✅ Yes
Free Pickup
✅
✅ (with account)
✅ Built-In
Label Printing
Manual
Manual
✅ Automated
Analytics & Reports
❌
❌
✅ Yes
Subscription Cost
—
—
✅ Low Monthly Fee
With Stamps.com, you don’t just compare — you save and simplify.
“I have a relationship with Stamps.com. I always get a response in 24 hours. With others, I always felt like just another customer.”
—Adriana Hurtado , Procurement Manager, Midwest Vision Partners
How It Works
- Sign up for Stamps.com Get instant access to USPS and UPS discounted rates.
- Enter your package details Weight, dimensions, and destination — that’s all you need.
- Compare carriers side by side See real-time USPS vs. UPS rates and choose the cheapest option.
- Print your label and ship Schedule free USPS pickups or UPS drop-offs right from your account.
With Stamps.com, you can instantly compare USPS vs. UPS shipping rates, access exclusive discounts, and ship smarter, all from one place. No hidden fees. No complicated setup. Just faster, cheaper shipping every time.
Frequently asked questions about comparing USPS vs. UPS
Is USPS or UPS cheaper for small packages?
USPS is typically cheaper for packages under one pound, especially with First-Class Package Service. Stamps.com users can access even lower commercial rates automatically.
When is UPS cheaper than USPS?
UPS often offers better rates for heavier or high-volume shipments, especially over longer distances. Stamps.com automatically compares both carriers to choose the best price per shipment.
Can I compare USPS and UPS rates on Stamps.com?
Yes. That’s one of the biggest benefits. Stamps.com lets you view live USPS and UPS rates side by side and choose based on cost or delivery speed.
Does Stamps.com offer discounted UPS rates?
Yes. As a Stamps.com subscriber, you get deeply discounted UPS® rates, including up to 88% off Daily Rates, with no volume commitments or pickup fees.
Can I use Stamps.com for both USPS and UPS labels?
Absolutely. You can print both USPS and UPS labels from your Stamps.com account, manage tracking, and analyze shipping performance all in one place.