How To Choose the Right UPS Service Options for Your Package: A Quick Guide

Despite their size, shipping a small package can often feel like a daunting task — especially when you're trying to figure out which service best meets your needs. With so many UPS^® service options to choose from, selecting the right one can be difficult for even the most seasoned shipper.

However, understanding your specific requirements and comparing available services can make the process much easier. In this guide, we'll break down the key factors to consider when choosing a shipping service and provide a quick overview of UPS delivery options to help you make an informed decision.

Key Factors for Selecting UPS Options for Delivery

Before diving into the specifics of UPS service options, it's important to assess your unique shipping needs. By considering these six key characteristics, you can ensure that your parcel reaches its destination on time and in the best condition — while also staying within your budget.

1. Urgency — One of the first things to consider is how quickly your package needs to arrive. If time is of the essence, it's important to choose parcel shipping options that guarantee fast delivery. However, if the delivery date is more flexible, you may be able to choose a more affordable option.

2. Size and Weight — Larger and heavier items may require specialized handling or specific types of UPS service options that can accommodate bulkier or more substantial parcels. For smaller, lighter items, standard shipping services are often sufficient and can be more cost-effective.

3. Distance to Destination — Short-distance shipments are typically easier to manage, but for longer journeys, you'll need reliable UPS service options that guarantee timely delivery.

4. Budget — Premium UPS delivery options tend to cost more, so it's important to balance your need for speed with your available budget. For non-urgent shipments, opting for a slower, more affordable service can help you save on costs without compromising deadlines.

5. Special Delivery Needs — If your shipment needs additional services like delivery confirmation, tracking or a signature upon receipt, be sure to account for these when choosing UPS service options. These can affect the type of service you select, so understanding these needs upfront is crucial.

6. Special Handling — If your package contains delicate or specialty items, ensure that the UPS options for delivery you choose offer the appropriate protections. This could involve specific packaging materials, controlled temperatures, or special handling procedures to ensure that your items arrive safely and intact.

UPS Options for Delivery — At a Glance

Here are key features of UPS delivery options — from the fastest (and highest-priced) to the least time-sensitive (but most cost-effective):

UPS Next Day Air^®

• Ideal for the most urgent shipments
• Guaranteed next-business-day delivery by 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. or end of day, depending on destination
• Available in the 48 contiguous states, Puerto Rico, and parts of Alaska and Hawaii
• UPS Next Day Air^® Early: Morning delivery option available to major cities in all 50 states
• UPS Next Day Air Saver^®: Afternoon delivery option available in the 48 contiguous states and parts of Alaska and Hawaii

UPS 2nd Day Air^®

• For time-sensitive shipments that don't need next-day delivery
• Guaranteed delivery by the end of the second business day
• Available in all 50 states and Puerto Rico (transit time longer to parts of Alaska and Hawaii)
• UPS 2nd Day Air^® A.M.: Morning delivery option available in the 48 contiguous states and parts of Alaska and Hawaii

UPS 3 Day Select^®

• Balances time and budget for moderate shipping needs
• Delivers by the end of the third business day
• Available in the 48 contiguous states

UPS^® Ground

• Best for non-urgent shipments (and some urgent shipments depending on shipping zone)
• Economical option for larger and heavier packages
• Delivery typically within 1-5 business days
• Available in all 50 states and Puerto Rico

UPS SurePost^®

• Budget-friendly option for small lightweight parcels going to residences
• Final mile typically handled by the U.S. Postal Service
• Delivery can take 1-2 days longer than UPS Ground
• Can reach residential and commercial addresses

Be Aware of Extra Charges

Keep in mind that certain parcel deliveries can be subject to various fees and surcharges. Make sure you know the most common reasons for extra charges so you can avoid unnecessary costs (and be prepared for the unavoidable ones).

Make an Informed Decision

Want to quickly compare options for your specific parcel? A transportation management system (TMS) is a technology solution that can make it easy. For instance, Worldwide Express customers can use SpeedShip^®, our proprietary TMS, to get accurate rate quotes based on size, weight and distance.

Need help choosing UPS service options? Reach out!

Worldwide Express is part of the largest authorized non-retail reseller of UPS in the nation. We leverage this relationship to provide parcel shipping reliability, cost savings and efficiency to thousands of small package shippers.

Ready to learn more about our UPS delivery option expertise? Reach out for a free consultation today.