How Much Does USPS Overnight Shipping Cost?

Last Updated on September 28, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

When you need to ship a package overnight, USPS Priority Mail Express offers fast guaranteed delivery. But how much does USPS overnight shipping cost? In this guide, we’ll dive into Priority Mail Express pricing, services, cost factors, and savings tips so you can make the best choice for your urgent delivery needs.

How Much Does USPS Overnight Shipping Cost?

Overnight shipping at USPS costs $30.45 as a flat rate for envelopes of up to 70 lbs. For anything else, expect zone-based pricing of $25 to $35 for smaller packages, although heavier packages can cost a lot more. USPS Priority Mail Express has two primary pricing models:

Flat Rate Pricing:

• Starts at $30.45 for an envelope up to 70 lbs.
• As long as your package fits, that’s the cost regardless of destination.

Zone-Based Pricing:

• Varies by weight and delivery distance.
• Starts around $25-$35 for smaller packages to nearby zones.
• Goes up incrementally for heavier packages and farther zones.

Packages over 1 cubic foot are also subject to dimensional weight pricing, which calculates rates based on package size and weight. This helps offset USPS costs for large or bulky items.

According to ShipBob, the starting price for Priority Mail Express is approximately $28.75 at the post office. For packages under 70 pounds, this service guarantees overnight delivery and includes features like tracking and up to $100 in insurance.

In a detailed overview by EasyPost, they emphasize that USPS offers competitive rates for overnight shipping, with costs varying based on weight and distance. They note that flat-rate options are available but primarily for envelopes, while standard rates apply for packages based on their weight and destination.

According to Stamps.com, Priority Mail Express is priced starting at $30.45. This service is available for packages weighing up to 70 pounds and includes a money-back guarantee on delivery times, which is a significant advantage for urgent shipments.

The official USPS website also confirms that the prices for Priority Mail Express start at $30.45 at a post office. They provide a comprehensive breakdown of services, including free package pickup and tracking, which are included in the cost of shipping.

USPS Overnight Shipping Overview

USPS Priority Mail Express provides expedited delivery across the United States with next-business-day delivery guaranteed by 10:30 AM or noon depending on origin and destination. For critical items that must arrive ASAP, Priority Mail Express is often the best choice.

Important features that make this USPS overnight service popular include:

• Next-day delivery guaranteed by 10:30 AM, noon, or 3 PM
• Up to $100 free insurance on packages
• Tracking and signature confirmation
• Refunds if the expected delivery time is missed
• Free pickup services and packaging
• Discounted commercial rates for business shippers

USPS Priority Mail Express Features

Priority Mail Express offers several choices for expedited delivery times and features:

1-Day Delivery

• Guaranteed next-business-day delivery by 10:30 AM, noon, or 3 PM based on origin and destination proximity.
• 1-day zones cover shorter distances typically within a state or region.
• Critical documents or packages needing to arrive ASAP should use this option.

2-Day Delivery

• For destinations outside the 1-day delivery reach, 2-day service is offered.
• The same expedited delivery fees apply as 1-day.
• Delivery is guaranteed by noon or 3 PM of the second business day.

International Shipping

• 1-3 day service is offered to Canada.
• 2-5 days to Mexico and 3-5 days to most other countries.
• Higher fees apply compared to domestic overnight shipping.

Additional Services

• $100 of free insurance coverage on Priority Mail Express packages
• Tracking provided on every shipment
• Signature confirmation available upon request
• Sunday/holiday delivery for an extra $12.50 fee

Factors Influencing Overnight Shipping Costs

Several variables affect the pricing for Priority Mail Express delivery:

Weight of the Package

• Heavier packages cost more to ship overnight than lighter ones.
• Prices are tiered, increasing incrementally for each 5 lb. weight class.
• Shippers should weigh packages accurately to avoid higher fees.

Delivery Zone and Distance

• Shipping farther distance zones costs significantly more.
• Inter-state shipments are most expensive compared to intra-state.
• USPS has 9 major zone designations based on origin and destination.

Package Size and Dimensions

• Oversized or irregularly shaped boxes and tubes can trigger dimensional weight pricing.
• This bases rates on overall cubic size and weight of large packages.
• Helps offset USPS handling costs for bulky items.

You might also like our articles about the cost of overnight shipping at FedEx and UPS, as well as the cost of sending a letter.

Utilizing Flat Rate Options

• The Flat Rate Express Envelope provides reliable overnight delivery for $30.45 anywhere, as long as the item fits inside.
• Maximizes savings for heavier or high zone packages.

USPS Overnight Shipping vs Other Carriers

USPS Priority Mail Express faces stiff competition from FedEx and UPS next-day air services:

FedEx Overnight

• Very comparable to USPS for speed and reliability.
• Slightly more expensive for most package sizes and destinations.
• Offers more delivery time customizations for critical freight.

UPS Next Day Air

• Direct alternative to Priority Mail Express with similar transit times.
• UPS offers more delivery options but USPS rates can be cheaper in many cases.
• USPS Flat Rates provide lowest pricing on medium-large packages.

Overall, USPS Priority Mail Express competes strongly on price while offering reliable next-business-day delivery and a money-back guarantee.

Save on USPS Overnight Shipping

Take advantage of these opportunities to reduce your Priority Mail Express costs:

Use Flat Rate Envelopes Whenever Possible

• The Express Flat Rate Envelope provides reliable overnight delivery around the country for $30.45, regardless of package weight or destination proximity.
• Maximizes cost savings on heavier or longer distance shipments.

Access Discounted Commercial Rates

• USPS offers business shippers discounted Priority Mail Express rates up to 10% lower than retail prices.
• Third-party tools like Easypost provide commercial pricing saving up to 91%.

Take Advantage of Free USPS Packaging and Package Pickup

• Prevents paying extra for boxes and envelopes.
• Avoids $20+ pickup fees by scheduling free carrier pickup.

Understanding dimensional weight thresholds and zone pricing differences helps minimize delivery costs.

Additional Fees

Certain extra services and fees include:

Sunday and Holiday Delivery

• Requesting Sunday or holiday delivery adds a $12.50 surcharge.
• Only available on Priority Mail Express, not other USPS shipping services.

Signature Confirmation

• Included by default with Priority Mail Express at no extra charge. Provides delivery proof.
• Signature confirmation options include Adult and Restricted Delivery requiring the recipient or designated proxy to sign.

Insurance Coverage

• Up to $100 of coverage is free on all Priority Mail Express shipments.
• Additional insurance can be purchased for $3.10 per $100 of declared value.

Undeliverable Shipment Fees

• If a shipment is undeliverable as addressed and returned to sender, the return postage cost is deducted from any postage refund issued.

Businesses and Commercial Pricing

USPS offers volume-based pricing discounts up to 10% for commercial customers shipping with Priority Mail Express.

Benefits include:

• Better rates unlocked by shipping higher monthly volumes.
• Discounts increase progressively based on monthly spending.
• Accessed through a USPS Business Customer Gateway account.

Businesses can also integrate USPS shipping through API tools like Shippo, making it easy to buy labels, track packages, and save on overnight delivery.

Answers to Common Questions

Is USPS or UPS overnight shipping more affordable?

For most delivery routes and smaller package sizes under 2 lbs, USPS Priority Mail Express tends to have cheaper base rates compared to UPS Next Day Air. The pricing advantage expands further for heavier package weights eligible for USPS Flat Rate envelopes.

Is my Priority Mail Express package guaranteed to arrive next day?

Yes, USPS guarantees next-business-day delivery of Priority Mail Express packages sent before the daily cut-off time at the origin facility. If the expected delivery deadline is missed, you can request a full refund of the shipping charges by contacting USPS customer service.

Does USPS actually deliver Priority Mail Express packages overnight?

In the vast majority of cases, yes. USPS has an excellent track record of on-time delivery for Priority Mail Express. However, exceptions can occur in remote rural areas or during major weather events. Ensure your package enters the USPS logistics network with ample time before the day’s final collection cut-off.

What is the maximum weight and size for Priority Mail Express shipments?

Priority Mail Express packages may weigh up to 70 lbs and measure up to 108 inches in combined length and girth. Oversize packages incur surcharges. Talk to your local Post Office if your shipment exceeds the standard maximums.

Can I insure Priority Mail Express packages for more than $100?

Yes, you can purchase additional insurance coverage above the default $100 included with Priority Mail Express. Maximum insurance values go up to $25,000, at an additional cost of $3.10 per $100 of declared value. Higher amounts require extra verification and paperwork.

Final Words

When you need the fastest and most reliable USPS shipping, Priority Mail Express is designed specifically for urgent next-day delivery. Weighing the costs vs. benefits compared to other carriers ensures you make the optimal choice.