What's the difference between priority mail and priority express
Priority Mail and Priority Express are both services offered by the United States Postal Service (USPS) for expedited shipping, but they have some key differences:
Priority Mail:
- Typically takes 1-3 business days for delivery within the continental United States
- Available for packages up to 70 lbs
- Flat rate pricing for packages up to 70 lbs, with a maximum weight limit of 70 lbs
- Tracking and insurance are included
- Delivery confirmation is provided
- No signature upon delivery is required
- Can be sent to PO boxes
Priority Express:
- Typically takes 1-2 business days for delivery within the continental United States
- Available for packages up to 70 lbs
- Weight-based pricing, with rates increasing as the package weight increases
- Tracking and insurance are included
- Delivery confirmation is provided
- Signature upon delivery is required
- Can be sent to PO boxes, but may require additional handling
Here are some key differences:
- Delivery speed: Priority Express is generally faster than Priority Mail, with delivery times of 1-2 business days compared to 1-3 business days.
- Pricing: Priority Express has weight-based pricing, which means the cost increases as the package weight increases. Priority Mail has flat rate pricing, which means the cost is the same regardless of package weight.
- Signature upon delivery: Priority Express requires a signature upon delivery, while Priority Mail does not.
- Handling: Priority Express packages may require additional handling, such as special handling for PO boxes.
When to use each service:
- Use Priority Mail for:
- Packages that don't require a signature upon delivery
- Packages that are under 70 lbs
- Budget-friendly options
- Use Priority Express for:
- Time-sensitive packages that require a signature upon delivery
- Packages that are over 70 lbs
- High-priority shipments that require faster delivery
Keep in mind that both services are subject to weather conditions, traffic, and other factors that may affect delivery times. It's always a good idea to check the USPS website for the most up-to-date information and to plan accordingly.