Deciding who to ship your package with can be a daunting task for many people.
Both the United States Postal Service (USPS) and United Parcel Service (UPS) offer reliable services for shipping packages, but their offerings differ in some significant ways.
So, I decided to explore the Difference Between UPS And USPS to help you decide which one is best suited to your shipping needs.
Let’s get started with…
Contents
What is UPS?
UPS, or United Parcel Services, is a leading shipping and delivery service in the world. Established in 1907 as a messenger company in Seattle, Washington, the business has grown significantly to become an international operation with more than 675,000 employees operating from over 220 countries and territories.
UPS offers ground, air, and freight services for residential and commercial customers; it also specializes in managing delivery operations and providing logistics support through its worldwide organization. With its expansive resources and a broad range of services, it can provide reliable solutions that help customers reach their goals by meeting deadlines with ease.
What is USPS?
USPS is a government-operated national delivery service that has been in operation since 1775. With the enactment of the Postal Act of 1792, it officially opened its doors as the first government-run postal system in history, and it remains to this day one of the oldest federal agencies in operation.
From its humble beginnings as a row of mailboxes at Benjamin Franklin’s Philadelphia post office, USP has grown into a nationwide network with thousands of offices throughout all fifty states and five territories. The majority of their business focuses on delivering letters, packages, postcards, and other forms of communication domestically and internationally.
Contracting to outside carriers if need be…
While most services are overseen by machines or traditional staff employed by USPS, they also contract with outside carriers to provide additional support during their peak periods, such as the holiday season. Through their long history spanning two and half centuries, they continue to bring people closer together as an essential part of our nation’s communications network.
The Difference Between UPS And USPS
USPS and UPS may seem similar at first glance, but there are some key differences to consider when deciding between the two.
- USPS is a Federal organization that works for the public good, meaning it has legal privileges to access every mailbox across the United States of America.
- As opposed to USPS, UPS is a privately owned corporation that specializes in parcel delivery services. Although UPS often offers faster shipping options, they tend to be more expensive compared to the public shipping option of USPS.
Since packages shipped through USPS are typically cheaper than those sent by UPS, it’s worth researching both options before choosing one to make an informed decision.
Which is Cheaper?
When choosing between the two for shipping, it’s important to consider the cost. In general, USPS is generally less expensive than UPS services due to its status as a government-sponsored provider.
USPS rates are more favorable for people who require smaller packages, while UPS provides more competitive rates for heavier, bulkier packages. Whether you need something shipped across the street or across the world, take the time to compare prices carefully – both provide excellent service but at different costs.
Which is Faster?
When it comes to speedy delivery, there’s always the age-old debate about UPS or USPS. While both offer overnight delivery options as well as 2 and 3-day service windows – although these may not always be guaranteed – it appears that USPS, on average, has an edge when it comes to total delivery times.
According to a recent survey, USPS averages around 1.79 days from shipment to receipt, while UPS clocks in at an average of 2.75 days. That’s almost 24 hours longer! So, if you’re looking for a fast delivery option for your important packages and documents, USPS may just be the faster and better choice.
How Easy is it to Use?
Another crucial factor to consider when deciding between the two is the ease of use. Both providers offer online tools that make it easy to create shipments, track packages, and manage invoices.
- For USPS customers, the Create a Shipment tool helps you fill out shipping forms and print labels in just a few simple steps, while their Track & Manage service allows you to track packages in real time.
- UPS customers can take advantage of the same tools, as well as the My UPS Mobile app, which allows you to track packages on the go.
Both providers make it easy to manage your shipping needs and stay up to date on your packages.
Do They Both Have a Good Reputation?
Yes. Both are well-known providers with a positive reputation amongst their customers, as well as the public. USPS has been around since the late 1700s and is a trusted name for many people, while UPS continues to provide reliable delivery service throughout the United States and the world.
Both providers have been rated highly for their customer service, delivery times, and overall value. If you’re looking for a reliable and trustworthy shipping provider, they are both great options.
Do They Both Have Planes?
USPS does not have any planes. Their largest delivery vehicle is a truck. UPS, on the other hand, has its own airline, which consists of over 500 aircraft. The company also has its own flight training academy, where it trains pilots and other personnel to ensure their flights are as safe as possible.
We Have Applications For Both!
Before you decide which company you’d like to apply to, check out our in-depth guides!
Let’s start with the UPS Mission And Vision Statement Analysis to learn more about the company, and How Much Does UPS Pay for your working hours, followed by our in-depth guide to the UPS Application Online, and once you’ve applied, find out What Does Offer Phas Ext Mean For USPS to know what steps to take from there.
If you’d like to know more about the positions available at USPS, then take a look at our USPS Mail Processing Clerk Job Description, our PSE Mail Processing Clerk USPS, and our USPS City Carrier Assistant, moving on to our guide to the USPS Application for 2023.
If you have a criminal record, please check up on Does UPS Drug Test Package Handlers, Does UPS Do Background Checks, and Does UPS Hire Felons, as well as Does USPS Hire Felons before moving forward.
Final Thoughts
Both USPS and UPS provide reliable shipping services throughout the United States, but there are a few key differences between the two.
When deciding between them, it’s important to consider cost, speed, ease of use, and reputation. Depending on your needs and budget, either can be a great option for shipping your packages. Additionally, since USPS delivery times are usually faster and cheaper than those sent by UPS, it’s worth considering the USPS first when sending packages.
Ultimately, both providers have their advantages and disadvantages, so make sure to do your research and choose the one that best meets your needs.
Good luck choosing the best option for you!
