When you send a letter or a small package across the country, you’re likely using the US Postal Service, the independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for providing postal service across the United States. Also known as USPS, it’s the only organization legally allowed to deliver mail to every address in the country, no matter how remote. Unlike private couriers, USPS doesn’t just move packages—it keeps the entire nation connected, from rural towns to big cities, with a network that’s been running for over 240 years.
But here’s the thing: US Postal Service isn’t the only player. It competes with giants like UPS, a global logistics company that handles parcel delivery, supply chain management, and freight services, and FedEx, a multinational courier delivery services company known for overnight shipping and express logistics. While UPS and FedEx focus on speed and tracking for businesses, USPS is built for volume, affordability, and universal access. It’s the go-to for individuals sending birthday cards, small e-commerce orders, or returning online purchases.
What makes USPS different? It doesn’t charge extra for remote areas. It delivers to PO boxes. It offers Priority Mail Express with a money-back guarantee for next-day delivery in many zones. But it’s not perfect—delivery times can vary, and tracking updates aren’t always real-time. If you’re shipping something heavy, expensive, or time-sensitive, UPS or FedEx might be better. But for everyday mail and lightweight packages, USPS is often the cheapest and most reliable option.
People often confuse USPS with private couriers, but they operate under completely different rules. USPS is funded mostly by sales, not taxes, and it has to serve every address—even if it loses money on some routes. That’s why it can offer flat-rate boxes and lower rates for small parcels. Companies like Amazon and Shopify rely on it for last-mile delivery because it’s the only service that can reach every home in the U.S. at scale.
What you’ll find in the posts below are real breakdowns of how USPS compares to other carriers on speed, cost, and reliability. You’ll see how Priority Mail Express stacks up against FedEx Overnight, what happens when you ship internationally with USPS vs. UPS, and why some people swear by USPS while others avoid it like the plague. There’s also deep dives into how shipping rates are calculated, what surcharges really mean, and how to save money without sacrificing delivery time. Whether you’re shipping a single box or managing a small online store, these guides cut through the noise and give you straight answers.
Discover if USPS ships internationally, which services are available, costs, customs steps, and tips for smooth overseas deliveries.