Carriers

Four carriers.
One list. Cheapest first.

You do not have to guess which carrier is cheapest for a package — enter it once and every service from all four prices itself in front of you. This page is for when you want to know why.

USPS

The cheapest option for most parcels under about five pounds, and the only carrier that delivers to every US address including PO boxes.

Ground AdvantagePriority MailPriority Mail Express
USPS services and rates
UPS

Strong on heavier parcels and guaranteed delivery dates, with the most reliable tracking detail of any carrier.

GroundGround Saver3 Day Select
UPS services and rates
FedEx

The strongest choice for time-definite air freight, with sharp economy pricing on lightweight residential parcels.

GroundHome DeliveryGround Economy
FedEx services and rates
DHL

The fastest option out of the United States, with customs clearance handled end to end.

Express WorldwideExpress 12:00
DHL services and rates
Rules of thumb

Which carrier usually wins.

Useful for planning. Never a substitute for an actual quote, because zone, dimensions and surcharges move the answer.

Under 1 lb
USPS Ground Advantage almost always wins, and FedEx Ground Economy is worth checking for residential addresses.
1 to 5 lb
The genuinely competitive range. USPS Priority, UPS Ground and FedEx Ground trade places by zone — always compare.
5 to 70 lb
UPS Ground and FedEx Ground usually beat USPS as weight climbs, especially over longer distances.
Over 70 lb
UPS and FedEx only. USPS will not carry a parcel above 70 pounds.
To a PO box
USPS only. No other carrier can deliver to one.
International
DHL Express for speed, USPS International for price. Both need a customs declaration.

Stop guessing.
Price the actual package.

Compare all four