Shipping Glossary

USPS Ground Advantage

What USPS Ground Advantage is, delivery times, pricing, and when to use it.

Definition

USPS Ground Advantage is the standard ground shipping service from the United States Postal Service, offering delivery in 2-5 business days for packages up to 70 lbs. It replaced USPS Retail Ground, Parcel Select Ground, and First-Class Package Service in 2023.

What Is USPS Ground Advantage?

Launched in July 2023, Ground Advantage consolidated three former USPS services into one streamlined option. It provides tracking on all shipments, includes up to $100 of insurance by default, and delivers in 2-5 business days depending on distance. Ground Advantage is generally the most affordable USPS option for packages over 1 lb and competes directly with FedEx Ground and UPS Ground. For packages under 1 lb, Ground Advantage offers especially competitive rates that often beat all other carriers. Commercial pricing through shipping platforms can reduce Ground Advantage rates by 15-30% compared to retail counter prices.

Why It Matters

Ground Advantage is the go-to economical shipping option for non-urgent packages. It offers the best balance of price, speed, and reliability for most everyday shipments, especially for e-commerce sellers and small businesses.

How Each Carrier Handles USPS Ground Advantage

USPS

Ground Advantage is USPS's primary ground service. It handles packages up to 70 lbs with 2-5 day delivery, includes $100 insurance and tracking, and offers commercial pricing discounts. It replaced Retail Ground, Parcel Select, and First-Class Package in 2023.

FedEx

FedEx Ground is the competing service, offering 1-5 business day delivery. FedEx Ground tends to cost more for lightweight packages but may be competitive for heavier shipments over 10 lbs, especially with negotiated rates.

UPS

UPS Ground is the competing service, offering 1-5 business day delivery. Like FedEx Ground, UPS Ground is generally more expensive for lightweight packages but can be competitive for heavier shipments with negotiated business rates.

Tips

Ground Advantage is typically the cheapest option for packages between 1-10 lbs

For packages under 1 lb, Ground Advantage often beats First-Class Mail alternatives from other carriers

Use I'd Ship That to compare Ground Advantage against Priority Mail -- sometimes the speed upgrade is only $1-2 more

Ground Advantage includes $100 of free insurance, so you may not need to purchase additional coverage for low-value items

Related Terms

Flat Rate Shipping • Commercial Plus Pricing • DIM Weight

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does USPS Ground Advantage take?

USPS Ground Advantage delivers in 2-5 business days depending on the distance between origin and destination. Shorter distances (same state or neighboring states) typically arrive in 2-3 days, while cross-country shipments may take the full 5 days.

What is the weight limit for Ground Advantage?

USPS Ground Advantage accepts packages up to 70 lbs. There is no minimum weight requirement. Packages must also not exceed 130 inches in combined length and girth.

Does Ground Advantage include tracking and insurance?

Yes. All Ground Advantage shipments include free USPS tracking and up to $100 of included insurance coverage at no additional cost. Additional insurance can be purchased for higher-value items.

Is Ground Advantage cheaper than Priority Mail?

In most cases, yes. Ground Advantage is typically 15-30% cheaper than Priority Mail for the same package. The trade-off is delivery speed: Ground Advantage takes 2-5 days versus Priority Mail's 1-3 days.

Start Shipping Smarter

I'd Ship That automatically handles usps ground advantage calculations so you always get the best rate.

Start Shipping Free

Free to start No monthly fees USPS, FedEx & UPS