Cheapest way to ship a package
The cheapest way to ship a package is almost never “whatever the clerk rings up.” It is right-size the parcel, use commercial online postage, and compare carriers for that ZIP-to-ZIP lane.
The decision order that saves money
- Pack as small and light as is still safe.
- Get an honest packed weight — scale, counter, or confirmed estimate.
- Compare live USPS and UPS (start here in Oshippy).
- Buy Ground-like service unless you need the days back.
- Print at home and drop off. Standing in line to buy retail postage is the expensive path.
Who each option is good for
- USPS Ground Advantage (typical): small, light, not urgent.
- UPS Ground (typical): heavier or when the live quote wins.
- Priority / faster services: deadlines, not thrift.
- FedEx: only if a live FedEx quote (outside Oshippy) beats the others or is required.
Size, weight, speed, tracking
A 6 oz poly mailer and a 20 lb cube are different sports. Tracking is included on the parcel services you buy online through Oshippy — you do not need to pay extra just to see scans. Speed is the main paid upgrade.
When to compare live rates
Every new size or destination. Use the shipping calculator if you want billable weight first, then compare current shipping rates.
Keep reading
Frequently asked questions
Compare current shipping rates
Quotes change with weight, size, and ZIP code. Oshippy compares live USPS and UPS for your actual package.