How Much Does It Cost to Ship a 20 Pounds Package? (2026)
Compare costs to ship a 20 lb package via USPS, FedEx, and UPS in 2026.
Carrier Rate Comparison for 20 Pounds
| Carrier | Service | Cost Range | Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS | Ground AdvantageCheapest | $16.50 - $32.00 | 2-5 days |
| USPS | Priority Mail | $30.00 - $52.00 | 1-3 days |
| USPS | Flat Rate Large Box | $22.45 | 1-3 days |
| FedEx | Ground | $21.75 - $36.50 | 3-7 days |
| FedEx | Express Saver | $48.00 - $65.00 | 3 days |
| UPS | Ground | $22.25 - $37.50 | 3-7 days |
| UPS | 3 Day Select | $50.00 - $68.00 | 3 days |
Common 20 Pounds Items
Items that typically weigh around 20 lb include: Desktop computers, Large electronics, Cases of product, Exercise equipment, Tool sets.
Packaging Tips
- Use a heavy-duty box rated for at least 30 lbs with double-wall construction
- Apply the H-taping method: tape all seams, not just the center strip
- For items over 15 lbs, consider adding 'HEAVY' labels so handlers take extra care
Pro Tips to Save Money
- USPS Large Flat Rate Box ($22.45) is a steal for 20 lb Priority Mail shipments if your item fits
- At 20 lbs, FedEx/UPS Ground are only $5-6 more than USPS and offer better damage claim processes
- Commercial USPS rates through I'd Ship That can bring 20 lb Ground Advantage labels close to $16.50
Frequently Asked Questions
A 20 lb package costs $16.50 to $32.00 via USPS Ground Advantage, $21.75 to $36.50 via FedEx Ground, and $22.25 to $37.50 via UPS Ground. The price difference between carriers is much smaller at 20 lbs compared to lighter packages.
The cheapest way to ship 20 lbs is USPS Ground Advantage with commercial pricing, starting at $16.50. If your item fits in a USPS Large Flat Rate Box ($22.45), that's the cheapest Priority Mail option. For businesses with volume, negotiated FedEx/UPS rates can sometimes beat USPS at this weight.
Not at retail prices -- USPS Ground Advantage starts at $16.50 vs. FedEx Ground at $21.75. However, businesses with FedEx volume discounts (typically 20%+ off) can get FedEx Ground rates close to or below USPS pricing at 20 lbs. For individual shippers, USPS is still cheaper.
Yes, USPS ships packages up to 70 lbs. A 20 lb package is well within USPS limits. USPS Ground Advantage costs $16.50 to $32.00, and USPS Priority Mail costs $30.00 to $52.00. The USPS Large Flat Rate Box at $22.45 is a great option if your 20 lb item fits inside the 12.25 x 12.25 x 6 inch box.
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