Calculating UPS shipping costs can be a bit complicated, as the cost depends on several factors such as package weight, dimensions, destination, shipping speed, and additional services. In this article, we’ll discuss the steps to calculate UPS shipping costs in detail.
Step 1: Determine Package Weight and Dimensions
The first step in calculating UPS shipping costs is to determine the package’s weight and dimensions. UPS uses dimensional weight to calculate the shipping cost, which is the package’s weight, size, and volume.
To calculate the dimensional weight, you need to measure the package’s length, width, and height in inches. Then, multiply the length, width, and height to get the package’s volume. Divide the volume by 139 to get the dimensional weight.
For example, if your package measures 12 inches by 8 inches by 6 inches, the volume would be 576 cubic inches. Dividing 576 by 139 gives you a dimensional weight of 4.14 pounds.
Step 2: Determine the Destination
The next step is to determine the destination of your package. UPS shipping costs vary depending on the shipping destination. UPS offers domestic and international shipping services, and shipping costs are different for each.
Step 3: Choose a Shipping Speed
UPS offers various shipping speeds, including ground, 2-day air, and overnight delivery. The shipping speed you choose will affect the shipping cost.
Step 4: Determine Additional Services
UPS offers several additional services, such as signature confirmation, insurance, and Saturday delivery, that can impact the shipping cost. You should determine which additional services you need and add them to your shipping quote.
Step 5: Use the UPS Shipping Calculator
Once you have determined the package weight, dimensions, destination, shipping speed, and additional services, you can use the UPS shipping calculator to get an accurate shipping cost.
To use the UPS shipping calculator, go to the UPS website and click on the “Shipping” tab. Then, click on “Calculate Time and Cost.” Enter the package weight, dimensions, destination, shipping speed, and any additional services you need, and click “Continue.” The UPS shipping calculator will provide you with an estimate of the shipping cost.
Step 6: Compare Shipping Costs
If you’re sending a package that’s under two pounds, you may also want to consider USPS shipping rates, as they can often be cheaper than UPS rates for smaller packages. You can compare shipping costs between UPS and USPS by using the USPS shipping calculator.
Conclusion
Calculating UPS shipping costs can seem overwhelming at first, but by following the steps outlined in this article, you can quickly and easily determine the shipping cost for your package. Remember to consider package weight, dimensions, destination, shipping speed, and any additional services you need when calculating shipping costs. Once you have all of the information you need, you can use the UPS shipping calculator to get an accurate shipping cost estimate.
