Carrier Rule Comparison
Compare shipping rules, restrictions, and surcharge triggers across all major carriers. Understand the differences to choose the right carrier for your needs.
Basic Specifications
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| Metric | UPS | FedEx | USPS | DHL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DIM Divisor | 139 | 139 | 166 (zones 5-9) | 139 |
| Max Weight | 150 lbs | 150 lbs | 70 lbs | 154 lbs |
| Max Length | 108" | 108" | 108" | 47" |
| Max L+G | 165" | 165" | 130" | 200" |
Common Surcharge Triggers
When these conditions are met, additional surcharges apply. Check carrier websites for current rates.
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| Surcharge Type | UPS | FedEx | USPS | DHL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Delivery | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| Large Package / Oversize | Length >96" OR L+G >130" | Length >96" OR L+G >130" | >30" length ($8.40) | Market-specific* |
| Additional Handling - Weight | >50 lbs | >50 lbs (US); >55 lbs (Intl) | — | Market-specific* |
| Additional Handling - Length | >48" OR >30" width OR >105" L+G | >48" OR >30" width OR >105" L+G | 22-30" ($4); >30" ($8.40) | Market-specific* |
| Minimum Billable Weight | 40 lbs (AH-Dimension); 90 lbs (Large Pkg) | 40 lbs (AH-Dimension); 90 lbs (Oversize) | — | Market-specific* |
* DHL Express surcharges vary by market/country. For US shippers: Oversize Piece often triggers at single dimension >120 cm (≈47.2"), but varies by destination market.
** Minimum billable weights: UPS/FedEx apply 40 lb minimum for Additional Handling (Dimension) and 90 lb minimum for Large Package/Oversize as of 2025.
Key Differences
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| Category | UPS | FedEx | USPS | DHL |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Business shipments, time-definite delivery | Express shipping, international | Small packages, residential delivery | International express |
| Network Strength | Strong ground network | Largest air fleet | Every US address | 220+ countries |
| Transit Times | 1-5 business days | 1-5 business days | 1-3 days Priority | 1-3 days express |
When to Use Each Carrier
UPS
- ✓ B2B shipments
- ✓ Heavy packages (up to 150 lbs)
- ✓ Time-definite delivery needs
- ✓ Consistent ground service
- ✗ Avoid for lightweight residential
FedEx
- ✓ Express/overnight delivery
- ✓ International shipments
- ✓ High-value items
- ✓ Saturday delivery options
- ✗ Higher residential surcharges
USPS
- ✓ Small/light packages
- ✓ Residential delivery
- ✓ No residential surcharge
- ✓ Saturday delivery included
- ✗ Max 70 lbs weight limit
DHL
- ✓ International express
- ✓ Documents & samples
- ✓ 220+ countries coverage
- ✓ Customs expertise
- ✗ Limited US domestic options
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