USPS vs FedEx
Compare rates, delivery times, and services. Find the best carrier for your shipment.
USPS
Best for: Small packages and residential deliveries
✓ Pros
- •Cheapest for packages under 1 lb
- •Free pickup from mailbox
- •No residential surcharges
- •Media Mail for books and DVDs
- •No fuel surcharges
✗ Cons
- •Less reliable tracking
- •Slower ground delivery
- •Limited customer support
- •No guaranteed delivery for Priority Mail
FedEx
Best for: Time-sensitive and business shipments
✓ Pros
- •Fastest ground shipping (1-5 days)
- •Excellent tracking and notifications
- •Money-back guarantee on express services
- •Strong damage protection
- •Extensive drop-off locations
✗ Cons
- •Higher prices for small packages
- •Residential surcharges ($4-6)
- •Fuel surcharges (10-15%)
- •No mailbox pickup
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | USPS | FedEx | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Package (1 lb, Zone 4) | $4.50 | $10.50 | USPS |
| Medium Package (5 lbs, Zone 4) | $12.50 | $15.25 | USPS |
| Large Package (20 lbs, Zone 4) | $28.00 | $23.75 | FedEx |
| Overnight Delivery | $26.95 | $28.50 | USPS |
| Ground Speed | 3-8 days | 1-5 days | FedEx |
| Tracking Quality | Basic | Excellent | FedEx |
| Residential Surcharge | $0 | $4.50 | USPS |
| Money-Back Guarantee | No | Yes (Express) | FedEx |
Our Verdict
USPS is more affordable for residential shipments and small packages. FedEx offers faster delivery and better reliability for business-critical shipments.
Compare both options on ShipWave before shipping - we show you discounted rates from both carriers so you can make the best choice.
Compare Real Rates Now
Enter your package details to see discounted rates from all carriers
Get Your Shipping Rate
Compare rates from multiple carriers and save up to 54% on shipping costs
Get Rate
Frequently Asked Questions
Is USPS cheaper than FedEx?
Yes, USPS is generally 20-40% cheaper than FedEx for small to medium packages. FedEx becomes more competitive for heavy packages over 15 lbs.
Which is more reliable, USPS or FedEx?
FedEx has higher on-time delivery rates and better tracking. However, for non-urgent shipments, USPS is reliable and much more affordable.
Does FedEx or USPS deliver on weekends?
Both offer weekend delivery. USPS delivers on Saturdays (and Sundays for Priority Mail Express). FedEx delivers Saturday with some services.