What is the cheapest way to ship 50 pounds?

• 3 min read

Shipping a heavy package, such as one weighing 50 pounds, can quickly become expensive, but several economical options are available depending on your priorities, timeline, and distance. Below is a detailed table outlining various carrier options, their service levels, estimated delivery days, and pricing, sorted by price (lowest to highest). The sample prices provided are based on discounted rates from online postage providers using a package measuring 18 x 18 x 24 inches shipped from Seattle, WA, to Key West, FL:

Costs for shipping a 50 pound parcel

Rates below are a snapshot from March 2025 to illustrate price differences between carriers. Carrier rates change periodically, but the relative comparison (which carrier wins at each weight) generally holds month-to-month. For current discounted commercial rates on your specific shipment, use our shipping calculator — for the latest live UPS-vs-USPS-vs-FedEx ranking across every weight from 1 oz to 70 lb, see our live carrier comparison. | Carrier | Service Level | Estimated Delivery Days | Price (USD) | | ------- | ------------------------------ | ----------------------- | ----------- | | UPS | Ground (cheapest) | 6 days | $69.94 | | UPS | Ground Saver | 7 days | $87.89 | | FedEx | Ground | 5 days | $89.39 | | UPS | 3 Day Select® (best deal) | 3 days | $103.85 | | UPS | 2nd Day Air® | 2 days | $149.29 | | USPS | Ground Advantage | 5 days | $149.94 | | USPS | Priority Mail | 3 days | $183.74 | | UPS | Next Day Air® | 1 day | $232.93 | | UPS | Next Day Air® Early | 1 day | $262.93 | | FedEx | Express Saver® | 4 days | $332.52 | | FedEx | 2Day® | 1 day | $386.31 | | USPS | Priority Mail Express | 2 days | $404.35 | | FedEx | 2Day® A.M. | 1 day | $453.43 | | FedEx | Standard Overnight® | Same day | $496.60 | | FedEx | First Overnight® (fastest) | Same day | $767.80 |

Factors That May Influence Shipping Rates

  • Dimensions and Weight: Larger or heavier packages may incur additional charges based on dimensional weight.

  • Shipping Distance: Longer distances typically increase shipping costs.

  • Residential or Rural Delivery: Some carriers charge extra fees for residential or rural delivery areas. Weekend delivery will also affect rates.

  • Fuel Surcharges: Variable fuel costs can cause price fluctuations.

  • Seasonal Demand: Rates may increase during peak seasons such as holidays.

Tips to Further Reduce Costs

  • Packaging: Use compact and durable boxes to avoid dimensional weight charges.
  • Discounts: Always buy your postage online at places like Stamps.com for online or promotional discounts.
  • Compare: Use online comparison tools like OnlineShippingCalculator.com to find the best rates instantly. Our example shows shipping a package across the furthest corners of the United States. If you are shipping the package to a nearer, you may find other carriers more cost effective.

Final Thoughts

For most users, UPS Ground represents the cheapest method at $69.94, though it comes with a slightly longer delivery period. For expedited needs, UPS 3 Day Select® is an affordable balance between cost and speed. Always compare rates and service levels to ensure the best choice for your shipment. Buy your postage online from multi-carrier shipping software. You will not get the best price when buying direct from the shipper or at their retail stores. That goes for USPS as well as UPS and FedEx.