UPS vs. FedEx vs. DHL vs. USPS: Complete 2025 International Shipping Rates Comparison

Expanding into international markets can significantly impact your bottom line—global SMBs attribute 26 percent of their revenue growth to international sales. However, choosing the right carrier for shipping overseas can be complex, with each offering different international shipping rates, delivery times, and service levels.

In this complete guide, we'll compare shipping international rates from UPS, FedEx, DHL, and USPS, provide real-world cost comparisons, and help you determine the best rates for international shipping based on your specific needs. All rates shown are discounted commercial rates available through Shippo, not retail prices.

Note: International shipping rates are updated regularly and subject to fuel surcharges and seasonal adjustments. Rates shown are estimates accurate as of 2025 and may vary based on current market conditions.

International Shipping Rates Overview: UPS vs FedEx vs DHL vs USPS

Why Compare International Shipping Rates?

The cost for international shipping can vary dramatically between carriers depending on:

• Package weight and dimensions
• Destination country and delivery zones
• Service level and delivery speed
• Additional services (insurance, signature confirmation, etc.)
• Fuel surcharges and international fees

Understanding how UPS charges for international shipping compared to FedEx international shipping cost structures helps you make informed decisions and optimize your shipping budget.

Detailed International Shipping Cost Comparison by Destination

Shipping to Canada: UPS vs FedEx vs DHL vs USPS

Canada represents an ideal starting point for international expansion due to proximity, language familiarity, and strong e-commerce market ($3.1 billion USD in monthly retail trade sales).

Best Options for Lightweight Packages (Under 4 lbs) to Canada:

USPS First-Class Package International Service

• Cost: $18.00 - $28.00 (via Shippo commercial rates)
• Delivery Time: 11-20 business days
• Weight Limit: Up to 4 pounds
• Best for: Non-urgent, lightweight items under $400 value

FedEx International Connect Plus

• Cost: $40 - $60 for 2 lbs package
• Delivery Time: 2-5 business days
• Weight Limit: Up to 70 pounds
• Best for: Small businesses needing reliable delivery

UPS Standard to Canada

• Cost: $35 - $50 for 2 lbs package
• Delivery Time: 3-7 business days
• Coverage: U.S., Mexico, Canada only (no Alaska/Hawaii)
• Best for: Economical ground delivery for less-urgent shipments

DHL Express Worldwide to Canada

• Cost: $50 - $80 for 2 lbs package
• Delivery Time: Next business day
• Best for: Time-sensitive shipments requiring guaranteed delivery

Shipping to Europe: International Shipping Rate Comparison

Best Options for 5 lb Package to United Kingdom:

USPS Priority Mail International

• Cost: $75 - $95 (Shippo commercial rates)
• Delivery Time: 6-8 business days
• Includes: Tracking and $100 insurance
• Best for: Cost-conscious businesses shipping regularly

UPS Worldwide Saver

• Cost: $105 - $140 for 5 lbs
• Delivery Time: 1-3 business days
• Service: UPS Worldwide Saver Express with guaranteed delivery
• Best for: Premium service with time guarantees

FedEx International Priority (Retail rates - not yet supported on Shippo)

• Cost: $120 - $155 for 5 lbs
• Delivery Time: 3 business days
• Best for: Express delivery with customs clearance assistance

DHL Express Worldwide

• Cost: $110 - $145 for 5 lbs
• Delivery Time: 1-3 business days
• Best for: Premium express service with extensive European network

Cheapest Way to Ship to China and Asia

For 3 lb Package to China:

USPS First-Class Package International (Under 4 lbs only)

• Cost: $22 - $33
• Delivery Time: 11-20 business days
• Best for: Small, non-urgent items

USPS Priority Mail International

• Cost: $60 - $85
• Delivery Time: 6-10 business days
• Best for: Most cost-effective option for packages over 4 lbs

UPS Worldwide Expedited

• Cost: $95 - $130
• Delivery Time: 2-5 business days
• Best for: Fast, guaranteed service for less-urgent international items

DHL Express Worldwide

• Cost: $100 - $140
• Delivery Time: 1-3 business days
• Best for: Premium express delivery to Asia

FedEx US to India and Other Developing Markets

5 lb Package from US to India:

USPS Priority Mail International

• Cost: $80 - $105
• Delivery Time: 6-10 business days
• Best value: Most economical option for regular shipments

UPS Worldwide Saver

• Cost: $125 - $165
• Delivery Time: 2-5 business days
• Reliability: Guaranteed delivery with comprehensive tracking

FedEx International Connect Plus

• Cost: $140 - $180
• Delivery Time: 4-7 business days
• Coverage: 95% of local GDP coverage in India

DHL Express Worldwide

• Cost: $135 - $175
• Delivery Time: 2-4 business days
• Advantage: Strong network in developing markets

Express International Shipping: Next Day and 2-3 Day Options

International Overnight Shipping and Next Day International Delivery

For time-critical shipments requiring the fastest possible delivery:

UPS Worldwide Express Saver®

• Delivery: End of next business day
• Coverage: 75+ countries and territories
• Cost: Premium pricing, quote required
• Best for: Critical business documents and urgent shipments

FedEx International Overnight

• Delivery: Next business day by 10:30 AM in most areas
• Coverage: 220+ countries
• Cost: Premium express rates
• Features: Money-back guarantee in many markets

DHL Express 9:00, 10:30, and 12:00 Services

• Delivery: Next business day by specified time
• Global reach: Strongest network in Europe, Asia, and Africa
• Cost: Varies by service level and destination
• Best for: Time-definite international express delivery

3-5 Business Day International Shipping Options

USPS Priority Mail Express International

• Cost: $50 - $95 for 2 lbs (via Shippo)
• Delivery: 3-5 business days
• Guarantee: Express service with tracking
• Best for: Reliable mid-range express option

UPS Worldwide Expedited

• Cost: $75 - $115 for 2 lbs
• Delivery: 2-5 business days
• Features: Guaranteed service with comprehensive tracking
• Best for: Fast service with delivery guarantees

FedEx International Priority

• Cost: $90 - $140 for 2 lbs
• Delivery: Typically 3 business days
• Note: Contact FedEx directly for current rates (not yet supported on Shippo)

How to Calculate International Shipping Costs

FedEx International Shipping Cost Calculators

FedEx Rate Calculator and Estimation Tools:

• FedEx Price Calculator: Online rate calculator for all international services
• FedEx Ground Shipping Calculator: For FedEx International Ground service
• FedEx 2 Day Shipping Cost Calculator: Estimates for express 2-day service
• FedEx Insurance Cost Calculator: Additional coverage pricing
• FedEx Delivery Time Calculator: Transit time estimates by destination
• FedEx Overnight Shipping Cost Calculator: Express overnight rate quotes

Contact Information:

• FedEx Great Rates Phone Number: 1-800-GO-FEDEX (1-800-463-3339)
• FedEx Great Rates Hotline: Dedicated line for shipping rate quotes

FedEx Rate Tools:

• FedEx Rate Finder: Compare service options and pricing
• FedEx Quick Quote: Fast rate estimates for common destinations
• FedEx Ship Quote: Comprehensive shipping cost calculator
• FedEx Freight Cost Estimator: For large/heavy international shipments

UPS International Shipping Calculations

UPS Rate and Time Calculators:

• UPS International Shipping Prices: Real-time rate calculator
• UPS International Shipping Time: Delivery estimates by service level
• UPS Shipping Times: Transit time calculator for all services

UPS Contact Information:

• UPS International Shipping Phone Number: 1-800-PICK-UPS (1-800-742-5877)
• UPS International Number: Dedicated international shipping support

UPS Service Options:

• UPS Saver: Economy international service
• UPS Worldwide Saver Express: Guaranteed express delivery
• UPS Worldwide Express Saver®: Premium express service
• UPS International Shipping: Complete service portfolio

Using Shippo for International Shipping Rate Comparison

Rather than using individual carrier calculators, Shippo provides:

Comprehensive Rate Comparison:

• Compare shipping rates international: All carriers in one view
• Real-time pricing: Current rates including fuel surcharges
• Service level comparison: Economy vs standard vs express options
• Total cost analysis: Including duties, taxes, and additional fees

Advanced Features:

• International shipping rate calculator: Multi-carrier comparison
• Customs documentation: Automated forms and compliance
• Tracking integration: Unified tracking across all carriers
• Analytics: Cost optimization and performance insights

Worldwide Expedited Services and Express Options

UPS Express International Services

UPS Worldwide Express Services:

• UPS Worldwide Express: Next business day delivery to 75+ countries
• UPS Worldwide Express Plus: Same-day pickup, next business day delivery
• UPS Worldwide Expedited: 2-5 business day guaranteed service
• UPS Saver: Economy service for less time-sensitive shipments

FedEx Express International Portfolio

FedEx International Services:

• FedEx International Next Flight: Next available flight service
• FedEx International Priority: 1-3 business day delivery
• FedEx International Economy: 2-5 business day service
• FedEx International Ground: Economy ground service

DHL Express Global Network

DHL International Services:

• DHL Express Worldwide: End of next possible business day
• DHL Express 9:00: Next business day by 9:00 AM
• DHL Express 10:30: Next business day by 10:30 AM
• DHL Express 12:00: Next business day by 12:00 PM

Best Practices for International Shipping Cost Optimization

Choosing Between UPS or FedEx for International Shipping

UPS Advantages:

• UPS Worldwide network: Strong coverage in Americas and Europe
• UPS Ground services: Economical options for North America
• Technology integration: Advanced tracking and logistics tools
• Volume discounts: Competitive rates for regular shippers

FedEx Advantages:

• Express expertise: Market leader in time-definite delivery
• Global reach: Extensive network in developing markets
• Service reliability: Industry-leading on-time performance
• Technology: Advanced shipping and tracking systems

DHL vs FedEx vs UPS: Regional Strengths

DHL Strengths:

• Europe and Asia: Dominant market position in many countries
• Emerging markets: Strong network in Africa, Middle East, Latin America
• Express services: Premium time-definite delivery options
• Customs expertise: Streamlined international clearance processes

Regional Recommendations:

• Europe: DHL for express, USPS for economy
• Asia-Pacific: DHL or UPS for express, USPS for economy
• Americas: UPS or FedEx for express, USPS for economy
• Developing markets: DHL for reliability, USPS for cost savings

International Shipping Rate Optimization Strategies

Cost Reduction Techniques:

• Service level optimization: Match service to urgency requirements
• Package consolidation: Combine multiple items to reduce per-unit costs
• Zone skipping: Use consolidation services for high-volume lanes
• Dimensional weight optimization: Right-size packaging to minimize costs
• Duty optimization: Understand landed cost implications

Technology Solutions:

• Multi-carrier shipping platforms: Compare rates in real-time
• Automated service selection: Rules-based carrier and service selection
• International compliance tools: Automated customs documentation
• Analytics and reporting: Track performance and identify optimization opportunities

Contact Information and Resources for International Shipping

Carrier Contact Information

FedEx International Support:

• FedEx Great Rate Phone Number: 1-800-463-3339
• FedEx International Customer Service: 1-800-247-4747
• Online Tools: FedEx.com rate calculator and shipping tools

UPS International Support:

• UPS International Phone Number: 1-800-742-5877
• UPS International Shipping Support: Dedicated international team
• Online Tools: UPS.com rate calculator and time-in-transit tools

USPS International:

• USPS International Inquiry: 1-800-222-1811
• USPS.com: International rate calculator and service information

DHL Express:

• DHL Customer Service: 1-800-225-5345
• DHL.com: Rate calculator and service information

Shippo's International Shipping Platform

Get Instant Access to All Carriers: Rather than contacting each carrier individually, Shippo provides:

• Unified rate comparison: UPS rates international shipping, FedEx international mail service, DHL verzendkosten, and USPS all in one platform
• Commercial pricing: Access to discounted rates from all major carriers
• Automated documentation: International customs forms and compliance
• Real-time tracking: Unified tracking across all carriers and services
• Analytics and optimization: Identify the best rates for international shipping automatically

Start Comparing International Shipping Rates Today

Stop juggling multiple carrier websites, calculators, and phone calls. With Shippo's multi-carrier platform, you can:

• Compare shipping rates international across UPS, FedEx, DHL, and USPS instantly
• Access commercial pricing with savings up to 90% off retail rates
• Automate international shipping with customs forms and compliance tools
• Track all shipments in one unified dashboard
• Optimize costs with analytics and automated service selection

Ready to streamline your international shipping? Sign up for free and start comparing real international shipping rates from all major carriers. Whether you're looking for the cheapest way to ship to China, need FedEx US to India rates, or want to compare UPS vs FedEx for international shipping, Shippo provides all the tools you need to ship overseas with confidence.

For businesses shipping 500+ international packages monthly, contact our sales team for custom enterprise solutions and volume-based pricing across all carriers.

International shipping doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With the right carrier selection and tools, you can expand globally while maintaining healthy margins and delivering exceptional customer experiences worldwide.

Disclaimer: International shipping rates are subject to frequent changes due to fuel surcharges, currency fluctuations, and carrier adjustments. All rates shown are estimates based on 2025 data and may vary. Use Shippo's real-time rate calculator for current pricing.

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