
UPS SurePost and USPS Parcel Select are two shipping services that can help small businesses and online sellers save money on shipping costs.
UPS SurePost is a cost-effective shipping option that combines the strength of UPS with the reliability of the US Postal Service (USPS).
UPS SurePost uses the USPS to transport packages from UPS facilities to the final destination, which can help reduce costs.
The service is particularly useful for lightweight packages, such as books, clothing, and small electronics.
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Understanding USPS Parcel Select
USPS Parcel Select is a cost-effective shipping method for non-urgent, lightweight home deliveries. It's often used in combination with UPS's transportation efficiency.
The Postal Service will no longer offer contracted rate discounts for delivery unit entry next year, and rates will hike by 10.3% for Parcel Select shipments entered at those facilities. This change aims to increase utilization of the agency's entire network and help grow its end-to-end Ground Advantage delivery service.
UPS is already poised to lean less on the Postal Service for SurePost deliveries in the coming years. For example, UPS-employed drivers will gradually deliver a larger share of SurePost volume over time, reaching 50% for the contract year ending Aug. 1, 2028.
What Is USPS Parcel Select

USPS Parcel Select is a cost-effective and reliable shipping option offered by the United States Postal Service. It's designed for heavier packages and larger envelopes.
USPS Parcel Select is a ground-based service, which means it's not as fast as other shipping options like Priority Mail Express. However, it's often more affordable and can be a good choice for businesses and individuals who need to ship larger packages.
One of the key benefits of USPS Parcel Select is its predictable delivery time, which typically ranges from 2-9 business days. This can be especially helpful for businesses that need to track their packages and plan their shipping accordingly.
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Dive Insight:
The USPS Parcel Select service is a vital part of the shipping landscape, especially for non-urgent, lightweight home deliveries. It's a cost-effective option that's gained popularity among e-commerce shippers.
UPS and the USPS have a partnership that allows UPS to hand off packages to the USPS for final-mile delivery. This is known as SurePost, and it's a key player in the shipping industry.
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The USPS has a network of delivery units, which are local facilities that receive packages for final delivery. However, the cost of delivering packages to these units is increasing, with a 10.3% rate hike planned for Parcel Select shipments entered at these facilities.
UPS is working to adapt to these changes, with EVP and Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer Matt Guffey stating that the company is seeking a mutually agreeable agreement with the USPS.
To better understand how these changes might affect your shipping needs, here's a rough breakdown of the rate increases for SurePost packages:
Keep in mind that these rate increases vary by package weight and shipping distance, so it's essential to check the specific rates for your shipping needs.
Preparing Your Shipment
Make sure to weigh your package accurately, as it must not exceed the maximum weight limit of 70 pounds.
UPS SurePost allows you to use your own packaging materials, but it's essential to use sturdy boxes that can withstand the shipping process.

You'll need to affix the correct postage and labels to your package, which can be obtained from the USPS website or at a local post office.
It's crucial to provide accurate shipping information, including the recipient's name and address, to ensure timely delivery.
UPS SurePost offers a free package pickup service, which can be arranged online or by calling the UPS customer service number.
Make sure to include any necessary documentation, such as commercial invoices or customs forms, if you're shipping internationally.
The estimated delivery time for UPS SurePost is typically 3-5 business days within the contiguous United States.
Service Selection and Delivery
When selecting a shipping option, it's worth considering UPS SurePost Service. This option combines UPS's transportation efficiency with USPS's delivery capabilities.
To select UPS SurePost Service, simply choose it as your shipping option during the label creation process. This ensures that your package is routed through the SurePost network.
Factors affecting delivery time include destination distance and regional logistics, weather conditions and unexpected delays, operational hours of UPS and USPS facilities, and volume of shipments during peak periods.
Here are the factors affecting delivery time in a quick reference list:
- Destination distance and regional logistics
- Weather conditions and unexpected delays
- Operational hours of UPS and USPS facilities
- Volume of shipments during peak periods
Selecting Service

Selecting the right shipping service can make a big difference in how quickly and efficiently your package arrives at its destination.
To ensure your package is routed through the SurePost network, select UPS SurePost as your shipping option during the label creation process. This combines UPS's transportation efficiency with USPS's delivery capabilities.
Some shipping services are better suited for certain types of packages or locations.
UPS SurePost, for example, is a great option for packages that need to be delivered to residential areas.
Delivery Timeframes
Delivery Timeframes can be affected by several factors. Destination distance and regional logistics play a significant role in determining delivery time.
Weather conditions and unexpected delays can also impact delivery timeframes. I recall a time when a storm caused a significant delay in package delivery.
The operational hours of UPS and USPS facilities can affect delivery timeframes. Make sure to check their hours before shipping to avoid any delays.

During peak periods, the volume of shipments can also impact delivery timeframes. This is especially true during holidays and special events when many people are shipping packages.
Here's a breakdown of the factors that affect delivery timeframes:
What Does the Contract Mean for Drivers?
The contract ending between UPS and the Teamsters union is a big deal for drivers. With an increase in volume, drivers will see more delivery opportunities and access to overtime.
Drivers will be delivering more packages, thanks to improved guardrails around SurePost. This means smaller packages will be routed back onto UPS package cars, rather than being delivered by the USPS.
Millions of SurePost packages are going back on UPS trucks, which could create thousands of new regular package car driver jobs.
Package Delivery Experience
To have a smooth package delivery experience with UPS SurePost, double-check your labels to ensure all addresses are correct and legible. This simple step can save you from a lot of hassle down the line.
Confirming the package size and weight is also crucial, as it will help you avoid any unexpected fees. Verify that your package meets UPS SurePost requirements to ensure a seamless process.
Bring a copy of your tracking number or receipt to monitor your shipment and stay updated on its status. This way, you can track your package's journey and anticipate its arrival.
Some UPS locations may have limited hours, especially on weekends and holidays, so be sure to check their operating hours before heading out.
Latest Logistics News
UPS SurePost has partnered with USPS to offer a cost-effective shipping solution for e-commerce businesses. This partnership allows for the use of USPS's Parcel Select service.
UPS SurePost can save businesses up to 50% on shipping costs compared to traditional UPS ground rates. The cost savings are achieved through the use of USPS's network for last-mile delivery.
USPS's Parcel Select service is a popular choice for e-commerce businesses due to its reliability and affordability. The service offers a range of features, including trackable and signature-required delivery.
UPS SurePost uses USPS's Parcel Select service for packages weighing 1-70 pounds and measuring up to 108 inches in length and girth. This makes it an ideal solution for businesses shipping a wide range of products.
UPS SurePost offers a variety of shipping options, including 3-7 business days, 3-10 business days, and ground shipping. The shipping times and costs will vary depending on the destination and package details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will USPS accept UPS SurePost packages?
UPS SurePost packages are no longer accepted by the United States Postal Service due to a contract expiration. This change affects delivery services for UPS SurePost packages.
Why does UPS SurePost have a USPS tracking number?
UPS SurePost packages are delivered to a local post office, then handed off to USPS for final delivery, which is why you may see a USPS tracking number. This handoff typically occurs after the UPS tracking number's listed delivery date.
Sources
- https://www.shipscience.com/where-do-i-drop-off-ups-surepost-2-b9cb7/
- https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/01/16/ups-usps-package-delivery-changes/77743395007/
- https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/ups-surepost-2025-rates-postal-service-changes/735688/
- https://www.aol.com/usps-ups-surepost-delivery-contract-185948458.html
- https://www.logisticsmgmt.com/article/ups_and_usps_surepost_relationship_comes_to_an_end_as_nsa_expires
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