Express mail vs priority mail express
The eternal debate!
Express Mail and Priority Mail Express are both fast and reliable shipping services offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS). While they share some similarities, there are key differences between the two services. Here's a breakdown:
Express Mail
- Guaranteed delivery within 1-2 business days within the contiguous United States
- Delivery within 2-3 business days to Alaska and Hawaii
- Delivery within 3-5 business days to Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands
- Tracking information available online
- Signature upon delivery required
- Insurance coverage up to $100
- Flat rate pricing for packages up to 70 lbs
- No fuel surcharges
Priority Mail Express
- Guaranteed overnight delivery within the contiguous United States
- Delivery within 2 business days to Alaska and Hawaii
- Delivery within 3 business days to Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands
- Tracking information available online
- Signature upon delivery required
- Insurance coverage up to $100
- Flat rate pricing for packages up to 70 lbs
- Fuel surcharges may apply
Key differences:
- Delivery speed: Priority Mail Express is generally faster than Express Mail, with overnight delivery within the contiguous United States.
- Fuel surcharges: Priority Mail Express may have fuel surcharges, while Express Mail does not.
- Delivery to Alaska and Hawaii: Priority Mail Express takes 2 business days to deliver to Alaska and Hawaii, while Express Mail takes 2-3 business days.
- Delivery to Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands: Priority Mail Express takes 3 business days to deliver to Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands, while Express Mail takes 3-5 business days.
When to choose Express Mail:
- You need a slightly slower but still fast delivery option
- You're shipping to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the US Virgin Islands
- You're on a tighter budget and don't need overnight delivery
When to choose Priority Mail Express:
- You need overnight delivery within the contiguous United States
- You're willing to pay a premium for faster delivery
- You need to ensure your package arrives quickly and reliably
Ultimately, the choice between Express Mail and Priority Mail Express depends on your specific shipping needs and priorities.