UPS vs FedEx

Compare rates, delivery times, and services. Find the best carrier for your shipment.

Updated for 2026Save up to 54%

UPS

4.3/5

Best for: Heavy packages and e-commerce businesses

Pros

•Extensive global network
•Excellent for heavy packages
•My Choice notifications
•Strong business services
•Consistent delivery times

Cons

•Higher rates for express shipping
•Fuel surcharges (12.5%)
•Residential surcharges
•Complex pricing tiers

FedEx

4.4/5

Best for: Express shipping and fragile items

Pros

•Faster ground shipping
•Best overnight express rates
•Money-back guarantee
•FedEx Home Delivery for weekends
•Excellent for fragile items

Cons

•Higher residential surcharges
•Fuel surcharges (10-15%)
•Limited drop-off hours at some locations
•Can be pricey for small packages

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	UPS	FedEx	Winner
Ground (5 lbs, Zone 4)	$14.75	$15.25	UPS
Ground (20 lbs, Zone 4)	$24.50	$23.75	FedEx
Overnight (2 lbs)	$32.50	$28.50	FedEx
2-Day (5 lbs)	$18.25	$17.50	FedEx
Ground Transit Time	1-5 days	1-5 days	Tie
Tracking Quality	Excellent	Excellent	Tie
Saturday Delivery	Extra fee	Included (Home)	FedEx
Package Insurance	$100 free	$100 free	Tie

Our Verdict

UPS and FedEx are closely matched. UPS edges out for regular ground shipping and heavy packages, while FedEx wins for express and overnight services.

Both carriers offer similar quality. Use ShipWave to compare real-time rates and save up to 54% on either carrier.

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PackageBox or padded mailerLetterStandard envelope, up to 3.5 ozLarge envelopeFlat paper mailer, up to 13 oz

Width (in) *

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Weight (lb) *

Minimum 0.1 lb, Maximum 150 lb

Insurance coverage (USD)

Coverage up to $100 is included; higher coverage is priced into every rate shown.

This package contains a battery.

Include USPS Media Mail rates. I confirm this package contains only eligible books, vinyl records, or other qualifying media, with no unrelated merchandise or prohibited advertising. USPS may inspect the contents. If it finds ineligible contents, it may return the package or collect additional postage, and any resulting balance must be paid.I certify that the weight and outside dimensions I entered are accurate and that this shipment contains no undeclared batteries, hazardous materials, or items prohibited by the carrier. I understand the carrier may reweigh and re-measure the package; if its findings differ from what I entered, the package may be held until any resulting balance is paid. I agree to the ShipWave Terms of Service.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is UPS or FedEx cheaper?

They're very close in price. UPS tends to be slightly cheaper for ground shipping, while FedEx often has better express rates. ShipWave shows you both so you can pick the best deal.

Which is better for overnight shipping?

FedEx Priority Overnight is typically $2-5 cheaper than UPS Next Day Air, though both are reliable. FedEx also offers a money-back guarantee.

UPS or FedEx for fragile items?

FedEx is often preferred for fragile items due to their slightly gentler handling reputation, but both offer similar declared value coverage.

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