For those of you looking for an inexpensive way to ship, we researched mailing options with USPS, UPS and FedEx.
If you mailed a five-pound box from Wichita to Chicago, it would cost:
$15.10 via UPS
$11.50 via USPS
$10.47 via FedEx
These rates are for a two-day delivery. Overall, FedEx was about $1 cheaper if you went to a store.
Yet, USPS will reduce rates for postage if you print a mailing label at home and have your mail carrier pick up the box. For the five-pound box, it would cost you $9.63 if you mailed from home — the best overall deal.
However, in October, FedEx started offering One-Rate flat-rate shipping options, similar to the USPS’ Priority Mail Flat-Rate Boxes. If you plan to mail heavier items, these boxes may be the cheapest option for you.