How to ship cheaper this holiday with USPS, FedEx, and UPS

Earlier this year, the USPS announced temporary price adjustments for key package products for the peak holiday season of 2022, specifically for the period beginning October 2 and ending January 22, 2023 12:00 AM CT. These shipping increases are impacting commerce as well as commerce from customers and retail customers.

How much is shipping this year?

Seasonal price adjustments range from $0.25 to $6.50 depending on the weight of your package and the shipping product, up to 70 pounds, with the largest increases for packages weighing 11 pounds or more.

“This seasonal adjustment will align prices for the Post’s business and retail customers with competitive practice. No structural changes are planned as part of this limited pricing initiative,” the postal service said in a statement.

UPS has announced its own surcharges, which will remain in place until further notice. These raises range from $0.05 to $7.00. FedEx surcharges range from $1.50 to $68.75 per package, although the highest surcharge is $385 for certain US ground services.

6 tips to save on shipping costs

If you’re looking to save on expenses during the holidays, you should take a close look at how much you’re spending on gift shipping and look for alternatives or discounts that can save you money. A few tips to keep your costs down:

1. Opt for in-store pickup if you can. If the person you’re giving a gift to lives nearby, you can reduce costs by driving to the store to pick up the item and deliver it in person instead of shipping it. It may take a few extra minutes, but shipping costs can add up quickly if you don’t keep a close eye on them.
2. Order and ship through an online retailer. If your recipient doesn’t live close by to deliver a gift in person and your only option is to ship a gift, try doing it directly through the retailer you’re buying from. Many retailers have gift wrapping and price tag removal options, and this is often cheaper than shipping the item yourself.
3. Keep an eye on shipping deals. Many retailers will ship your item for free if you meet a minimum spending threshold. Consider getting the majority of your purchases through a specific retailer if you can so you can qualify for free shipping promotions. Another option: consider an Amazon Prime membership for fast and free shipping. You still have to pay a membership fee, but it will likely be cheaper than sending each individual gift. “Some major e-tailers, Amazon, Target and Walmart have been known to waive their free shipping minimums during the holidays. When you visit the site, these deals are clearly displayed,” says Trae Bodge, Smart Shopping Expert at truetrae.com. “Also, December 14 is Free Shipping Day, when many retailers not only guarantee on-time delivery for the holidays, but often offer free shipping and sales as well.”
4. Ship your items early. Holiday shipping times vary from carrier to carrier, but as the holiday season approaches, shipping your package becomes more expensive. Also, you run the risk of your item not arriving on time. Plan ahead and try to ship your items well in advance of your preferred carrier’s holiday deadline.
5. Don’t leave shipping discounts on the table. Certain airlines offer discounts for different memberships or credit card holders. UPS offers discounts for AAA and AARP members (pro tip: you don’t have to be retired to join). And FedEx offers discounts for USAA members and American Express cardholders.
6. Compare prices. If you prefer to pack and ship an item yourself, do your homework first. “I would recommend contacting a local shipping company and asking them to compare prices between the USPS, UPS, and Fedex before deciding on a carrier,” says Bodge. “In general, I find USPS to be the cheapest, especially if you use their prepaid boxes/envelopes. Just be prepared to wait in a long line as the holiday season approaches.”