Parcel Carrier Rate Comparison — UPS vs FedEx vs USPS
Compare estimated parcel rates across major carriers by weight and zone. Find the cheapest option for your package before booking or building your shipping strategy.
📬 Parcel Carrier Rate Comparison Calculator
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter package weight — in lbs — round up to the next pound for UPS/FedEx.
- Select shipping zone — based on distance from origin to destination. Use carrier zone maps for exact zones.
- Select service level — ground is cheapest; 2-day and overnight carry significant premiums.
- Get live quotes — use EasyPost, Shippo, or carrier websites for actual negotiated rates before shipping.
Worked Example
5-lb package, Zone 5, Ground, residential delivery.
- UPS/FedEx base: $18.00 + 18% FSC = $21.24 + $5.65 residential = $26.89
- USPS estimate: $10.50 + 5 × $0.80 = $14.50
- Savings: USPS saves $12.39 on this shipment
USPS Ground Advantage (launched 2023) is increasingly competitive for light residential packages under 10 lbs. For heavier packages and commercial addresses, UPS/FedEx Ground typically wins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Parcel shipping zones are determined by the distance between the origin ZIP code and destination ZIP code. Zone 2 is the closest (under 150 miles), Zone 8 is the furthest. Every carrier publishes zone charts — search "UPS zone chart" or "FedEx zone finder" with your origin ZIP.
USPS is generally cheaper for packages under 2 lbs going any distance, and under 10 lbs going short distances. For heavier packages on long zones, UPS/FedEx Ground is typically more competitive. USPS Priority Mail flat rate boxes can be a great deal for heavy, small packages going long distances.