Since an e-commerce business doesn’t have a physical location, it relies heavily on shipping carriers. One of the best ways to keep customers happy is by making sure their items arrive on time. Not only that, but the shipping service you use must also fit well with your business needs.
Luckily, there is more than one carrier to choose from.
If you’re having a hard time deciding between USPS vs FedEx, take a look at the information below to learn more about the two.
USPS vs FedEx: The Big Debate
It’s no secret that both USPS and FedEx are both well-known couriers with long histories behind them. USPS, also known as the United States Postal Service, is a government entity and the primary postal service for the United States.
It’s the shipping method that many people use in America, whether they have an e-commerce business or not. With USPS, you can transport mail and send small packages both domestically and internationally.
Alternatively, FedEx is a multi-national courier that specializes in overnight delivery and provides parcel tracking services. Essentially, both of these carriers get the job done. But the one you choose, whether it’s USPS or FedEx, must fit your e-commerce business needs.
FedEx Vs USPS: Choosing the Option That’s Right for You
FedEx has a top tier partial tracking system. So if getting packages to their destination is a big deal for you, FedEx is the way to go. It helps your customers keep track of their orders and make sure that there are no mishaps.
They also have a 150 lb weight limit. If you have large, heavy products that require shipping, they’re a good choice. Not to mention, FedEx are experts when it comes to overnight shipping. They are an excellent option for e-commerce companies that need to ship out large packages to domestic and international locations quickly.
On the contrary, USPS is better for shipping small packages that are roughly 2 lbs. Depending on the location, most USPS packages are placed inside of a mailbox. However, they will sometimes deliver to other spots like apartment offices or business offices.
If you have a business that’s sales jewelry, t-shirts, or makeup, USPS is a good choice. They’re also more economical, which is a plus if you’re only shipping out small products.
Besides these primary contrasts, both shipping services offer their individual benefits to customers. Of course, there are pros and cons to each of them.
FedEx Shipping Services
As previously stated, FedEx is the best with quick delivery and overnight shipping. They are also fantastic in the area of getting packages delivered in no time.
Here are some of the shipping options that they offer:
- Ground Delivery: Business ground delivery takes one to seven business days
- Home Delivery: This option provides residential delivery services by ground between one to seven business days.
- FedEx Same Day: Same-day provides door to door delivery services within a few hours, depending on availability. This option is open 7 days a week, 365 days per year within the United States.
- FedEx 2-day: This option delivers within two business days and the majority of the areas in the US
- FedEx Express Saver: With this option, packages are delivered within three business days to most areas in the US.
- FedEx overnight: this is the fastest option available. It delivers the next business day at either 8:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m., or 9:00 a.m. local time in most areas in the United States.
USPS Shipping Services
Similar to FedEx, USPS also has a variety of shipping options, such as:
- Priority Mail: This option provides a flat rate on boxes that are under 70 lbS and delivers within one to three business days
- First-class Mail: First class is best for envelopes and small packages under 13 lbs. Shipping takes one to three business days
- Retail Ground: Retail Ground is for large packages that are not time-sensitive
- Priority Mail Express: This is the quickest shipping and delivery option. It provides overnight delivery every day of the week.
- Media mail: Offers a unique service for shipping video and audio. There’s a 70 lb weight limit. and it takes two to eight business days for shipping and delivery.
USPS vs FedEx: Pros and Cons
In the battle between USPS vs FedEx, both options have pros and cons. Check them out below:
FedEx Pros
- Weekend delivery
- Additional insurance coverage
- Ship manager for tracking packages
- Discounts
- In-Person service
Cons
- Fewer pick up and drop off locations
- Higher shipping rates
- Limited options for free packaging
- Pick up fees for one-time shipment
USPS Pros
- Numerous locations in the United States
- In-person service
- Ability to print postage and shipping labels at home
- Free one-time business pickups
- Free package tracking
Cons
- Will only ship items under 70 lbs
- Subpar tracking system
- More expensive for shipping large quantities of packages individually
USPS or FedEx: Which Is More Affordable?
In terms of affordability, if you are only sending small items, then USPS is the less expensive option. However, for parcels that are heavier than 2 lbs, they’re best sent through FedEx because it’s more cost-effective. FedEx offers cheaper rates for heavier parcels.
But if you can fit your items into a small, medium, or large flat-rate shipping box, then USPS is more affordable than FedEx.
Speaking of USPS, since you run your e-commerce business from home, click here to learn more about renting a postage meter.
Should I Use USPS or FedEx? You Decide
When it comes to the success of your business, choosing USPS vs FedEx is a big decision. But hopefully the information above helps you to decide on which shipping carrier best suits your needs.
Of course there are pros and cons to both, but if one doesn’t work out, you can always try out the other. Good luck!
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