Top shipping carriers for small businesses include USPS, UPS, and FedEx.
USPS is best for lightweight packages, nationwide reach, and home-based businesses, offering affordable flat-rate shipping and free pickup services.
UPS is ideal for heavy items, high-value shipments, and guaranteed delivery windows, with excellent tracking tools and strong commercial pickup services.
FedEx is recommended for express shipments, international deliveries, and time-sensitive items, boasting a strong international network and weekend delivery options.
Platforms like Pirate Ship, Shippo, EasyPost, and ShipStation offer discounted shipping rates and automation tools for small businesses.
Small businesses often combine USPS shipping with third-party software for cost efficiency and automation, especially useful for generating prepaid return labels.
For U.S.-based small businesses, USPS is usually the best choice due to affordability and extensive reach, while UPS and FedEx are preferred for heavier or time-sensitive shipments.
When choosing a shipping carrier, businesses should consider factors like package weight, delivery expectations, cost per shipment, and location of customers.
Using multiple carriers may be beneficial based on customer location or order size.