What Is UPS SurePost? How Businesses Can Benefit From It

Virginia Miller

May 22, 2024

In this article

If you're a business owner who's looking for an affordable and reliable shipping option, UPS SurePost may be the perfect solution for you. But what is it, exactly? And how can you take advantage of its benefits? In this article, we'll provide an overview of UPS SurePost and explore some of the ways businesses can benefit from using it. keep reading to learn more!

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What is UPS SurePost?

UPS SurePost is a shipping service that delivers packages to customers via the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). SurePost is available for select areas in the United States, and offers delivery within 2-8 days. UPS SurePost is typically cheaper than UPS Ground shipping, and is ideal for items that do not need to be delivered quickly.

UPS SurePost is an affordable shipping method that takes advantage of USPS rates for the final delivery while still providing UPS reliability and tracking. Packages are transported using the UPS ground network before being handed off to USPS for last-mile delivery. This helps keep costs low compared to UPS Ground shipping alone.

How UPS SurePost Works

When you place an order with a business that offers UPS SurePost, the order will be shipped via UPS Ground to a local USPS post office. Then, it will be delivered to your door by USPS. This allows businesses to leverage USPS last-mile delivery rates while still benefiting from UPS tracking and reliability.

Requirements for Using UPS SurePost

There are a few requirements packages must meet to qualify for UPS SurePost pricing:

Must be shipped in a corrugated box, poly bag, padded envelope, or shipping tube
Size and weight restrictions apply depending on the SurePost service used
Bound printed matter must contain at least 90% permanently bound printed material

The Benefits of UPS SurePost

Some key benefits of UPS SurePost include:

Cost savings - Taking advantage of USPS last-mile delivery rates reduces shipping expenses
Weekend delivery - Packages deliver 6 days a week since USPS operates on Saturdays
Reliable tracking - One tracking number covers the entire delivery process
Convenient pickup - Customers can pick up packages at their local post office
Expanded delivery area - USPS delivers to PO boxes and US territories UPS does not cover

Potential Drawbacks

There are a few potential downsides to keep in mind as well:

Slightly longer delivery times due to the handoff between carriers
Best suited for high shipping volumes to maximize cost savings
No international shipping options since USPS handles final delivery

Who Should Use UPS SurePost?

While not right for every business, companies that ship high volumes of lightweight, less time-sensitive packages within the US are ideal candidates for UPS SurePost. The cost savings can really add up for those matching this profile.

How Businesses Can Benefit

The main benefits businesses see from UPS SurePost include:

Low shipping rates by leveraging USPS for last-mile delivery
Reliable UPS ground transportation and tracking
Potential to significantly reduce annual shipping costs

Compared to FedEx SmartPost

FedEx SmartPost is very similar to UPS SurePost, with a couple key differences:

Faster average delivery times
More consistency in handoffs to USPS

Choosing between them depends on your specific shipping needs and delivery requirements.

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FAQs

What is UPS SurePost?

UPS SurePost is a hybrid shipping service that uses both UPS and USPS to deliver packages. UPS handles the long distance transport while USPS does the final delivery to the recipient's address.

How does UPS SurePost work?

Packages ship via UPS ground services to a local post office near the destination. Then USPS delivers it to the recipient's address, including PO boxes which UPS does not deliver to.

What are the benefits of UPS SurePost?

It costs less than regular UPS Ground shipping since USPS handles lower cost local delivery. Packages can be delivered on weekends. Tracking number remains the same throughout transit.

What are the downsides of UPS SurePost?

Delivery can take 2-7 days so it is slower than regular UPS Ground. High shipping volumes needed to make it cost effective. No international delivery options.

What types of businesses use UPS SurePost?

High volume shippers of lightweight packages benefit most. It works for non-urgent deliveries. Mainly used by ecommerce companies shipping domestically.

How is UPS SurePost different from FedEx SmartPost?

They use a similar hybrid shipping model but FedEx SmartPost can take longer for deliveries. UPS SurePost has more consistent handoffs to USPS.

Can Simpl Fulfillment help me determine if UPS SurePost is right for my business?

Yes, the shipping experts at Simpl can assess your business' specific needs and shipping volumes to advise if UPS SurePost could save you money over other shipping methods.

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