FedEx and the United States Postal Service (USPS) are two major players in the shipping and delivery industry. FedEx is a private courier company that specializes in time-sensitive overnight shipping and offers worldwide delivery services. The USPS is an independent government agency that provides affordable domestic and international mailing and shipping options.
Both FedEx and USPS offer a wide variety of shipping services across the United States and internationally. However, there are some key differences between the two companies. FedEx focuses on fast and reliable delivery, while USPS aims to provide universal service at low cost. This leads to an important question for many customers – can FedEx packages be dropped off at USPS locations?
Can You Drop Off FedEx at USPS?
Generally speaking, you cannot drop off FedEx packages at United States Postal Service (USPS) locations (Themoney.co). The USPS and FedEx are two separate companies that compete with each other for shipping services. While you can conveniently drop off USPS packages at any post office location, the same does not apply for FedEx packages.
FedEx has its own network of drop-off and shipping locations. Attempting to drop off a FedEx package at the post office typically won’t work since the USPS does not handle FedEx shipments. There are a few limited exceptions where certain postal outlets with FedEx onsite may accept FedEx drop-offs, but this is not the norm.
Limited Exceptions
While FedEx and USPS do not typically mix, there are a few limited exceptions where USPS locations may accept certain FedEx packages. The main exception is FedEx SmartPost, which uses USPS for final delivery of FedEx Ground Economy packages. With SmartPost, FedEx handles the long-distance portion of delivery, then hands off the package to USPS for home delivery. This allows FedEx to utilize USPS’ expansive network for more cost-effective residential delivery.
Customers can drop off eligible SmartPost return packages at their local post office or mailbox. USPS scans these packages into their system, which then transfers the tracking data to FedEx once they receive the package. So in the case of SmartPost, USPS acts as an intermediary for final delivery of FedEx. This is the rare situation where FedEx relies on cooperation with USPS for a portion of their services. But aside from SmartPost, USPS locations typically will not accept any other type of FedEx package drop-off.
Why FedEx and USPS Don’t Mix
The main reason you cannot drop off FedEx packages at USPS or vice versa is that FedEx and USPS are competitors in the shipping and delivery business. They each want customers to use their own services instead of the other company. FedEx and USPS have developed completely separate networks for picking up, sorting, transporting, and delivering packages across the country and internationally. They do not share facilities, vehicles, personnel, or other resources as that would boost their competitor.
FedEx and USPS aim to provide the best service, features, reliability, and prices to gain more customers. If FedEx started handling USPS packages or USPS started handling FedEx packages, that could undermine their own competitive position in the marketplace. It could also create confusion for customers if the two networks were intermingled. Therefore, with limited exceptions, FedEx and USPS maintain clear separation between their pickup and delivery operations. Each company wants customers to access their network directly.
In summary, FedEx and USPS compete for shipping customers and do not directly interchange packages, maintaining distinct transportation networks. This competitive dynamic explains why you cannot generally drop off a FedEx package at the post office.
FedEx Drop-Off Locations
FedEx offers many convenient options for dropping off packages. There are over 18,000 FedEx drop-off locations in the U.S., including FedEx Office stores, authorized ship centers, self-serve FedEx Ship Centers at Walgreens, and FedEx drop boxes (1). Some key FedEx drop-off points include:
- FedEx Office – Over 2,000 FedEx Office locations accept FedEx packages with later pick-up times. Many locations are open extended hours and weekends (1).
- Walgreens – With over 9,000 participating Walgreens stores, customers can easily drop off pre-labeled FedEx packages (1).
- FedEx Ship Centers – These self-service kiosks located inside Walgreens, Office Depot, and other retailers allow you to print labels and drop off FedEx packages (1).
- FedEx Drop Boxes – There are over 15,000 FedEx drop boxes nationwide where you can drop off pre-labeled packages at any time. Boxes can accommodate smaller envelopes and packages up to 70 lbs (2).
With FedEx’s extensive network, you’re likely to find a FedEx drop-off location close to home or work. FedEx also offers pickup services, so you can schedule FedEx to come to your location and pick up packages.
USPS Shipping Services
The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a variety of domestic and international shipping services. Some of the most commonly used USPS shipping options include:
Priority Mail Express – This is USPS’ fastest domestic shipping option, with delivery in 1-2 business days guaranteed. It offers overnight delivery to most U.S. addresses and PO Boxes.
Priority Mail – With Priority Mail, USPS guarantees delivery within 1-3 business days. It also includes free insurance coverage up to $50 and tracking services.
First Class Mail – For lighter packages weighing 13 oz or less, First Class Mail can be an affordable way to ship. Delivery typically takes 2-5 business days.
USPS Retail Ground – Their most affordable service for packages traveling within the continental U.S. Delivery time is 2-8 business days.
Media Mail – An economical option for shipping books, CDs, DVDs, and other media. Restrictions apply and delivery takes 2-8 business days.
International Shipping – USPS ships to over 190 countries. Popular international options include Priority Mail Express International and Priority Mail International.
In addition to these shipping services, USPS also offers mailing and packaging supplies, tracking services, and insurance for extra protection.
Sending a Package
Both FedEx and USPS have a few simple steps for sending a package:
To send with FedEx (source):
- Plan your shipment based on destination
- Ensure the item can be shipped
- Package the item
- Determine which shipping service you need
- Schedule a pickup or drop off at a FedEx location
To send with USPS (source):
- Select a box or envelope for your item
- Pack and seal your item securely
- Address your package with delivery and return addresses
- Determine the shipping service based on speed, tracking, etc.
- Purchase postage and affix it to the package
- Drop off at any Post Office location
The main steps are preparing your item, choosing a service based on your needs, purchasing postage, and then either scheduling a pickup or dropping off at a location. Both carriers aim to make the process straightforward for sending packages.
Tracking Packages
Once your package has been shipped, you’ll want to track its progress to ensure it arrives safely and on time. Here are the main ways to track packages for FedEx and USPS:
FedEx (https://www.fedex.com/en-us/tracking.html):
- Use the tracking number provided when you shipped the package on fedex.com
- Track via the FedEx mobile app by scanning the barcode, entering the tracking number, or selecting from your list of recent shipments
- Call 1.800.GoFedEx (1.800.463.3339) and speak with a representative to track by phone
- Receive proactive alerts via email, SMS text, etc. through FedEx Delivery Manager
USPS (https://tools.usps.com/):
- Enter the tracking number at usps.com to track online
- Use USPS mobile apps like Informed Delivery to track packages
- Sign up for USPS text or email alerts about package delivery status
- Call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) for tracking by phone
Both carriers allow you to closely monitor your packages in transit and be notified as soon as they are delivered.
Cost Comparison
When comparing FedEx and USPS shipping rates, FedEx is generally more expensive for most domestic packages under 1 lb. According to https://homeanddeco.com/988b2-36929507, FedEx Priority Overnight can be over $20 for a small envelope versus around $25 for USPS Priority Mail Express. For heavier packages up to 5 lbs, FedEx Home Delivery starts at around $8 while USPS Priority Mail is $7.50.
However, FedEx rates are more competitive for heavier packages over 5 lbs shipped long distances. Per https://homeanddeco.com/988b2-36929507, a 10 lb package from Miami to Seattle is about $60 via FedEx versus $70 for a USPS Priority Mail Large Flat Rate Box. FedEx also offers discounts for high volume shippers.
Both FedEx and USPS offer various shipping speeds and rates. Comparing prices on their websites for your specific package weight and destination zip codes can determine the most cost effective option.
Key Takeaways
In summary, the key points to understand about using FedEx vs. USPS are:
-
You generally cannot drop off FedEx packages at USPS post office locations. The two carriers have separate pickup and drop-off networks.
-
There are a few exceptions where FedEx SmartPost packages can be left with USPS for final delivery. But most FedEx services must use FedEx-authorized drop-off points.
-
FedEx and USPS are independent shipping companies and competitors. Their services, tracking systems, and prices do not directly overlap.
-
To find convenient FedEx drop-off locations, use the FedEx website or mobile app locator map. Options include FedEx Office, Walgreens, and other retail stores.
-
USPS offers similar ground, priority mail, and express delivery services as FedEx at different rates. They have over 31,000 post offices for dropoffs.
-
When sending a package, compare FedEx vs. USPS prices and transit times to pick the best carrier for your needs.
-
Both FedEx and USPS allow package tracking by reference number on their websites.
By understanding the separate networks and services of FedEx and USPS, you can easily and affordably ship items using the optimal carrier.