UPS Rate Calculator
UPS builds every domestic rate from billable weight, mileage, and the chosen service level, then layers fuel and accessorial charges on top. This calculator walks through that math so you understand how dimensional weight, distance, and faster services push the quote up.
Billable weight follows UPS rules: the heavier value between the actual scale weight and the dimensional weight (length × width × height divided by 166 for domestic parcels). Distance is a proxy for the UPS zone, and service levels (Ground, 3 Day Select, Next Day Air) multiply that mileage base to reward speed with higher per-mile charges.
Example: Ship a 18 lb package measuring 18″ × 14″ × 12″ for 650 miles via UPS Ground with a 12% fuel surcharge and $5 in accessorial fees; the calculator models how the dimensional weight (≈22 lb) becomes the billable weight, multiplying the 0.12-per-mile base by that weight, the mileage, and the Ground service factor before adding fuel and accessorial dollars.
Estimate a UPS Rate
What Influences a UPS Rate
The billable weight, distance, service level, fuel surcharge, and any required handling or residential delivery charges combine to create the published rate. Dimensional weight kicks in when a box is voluminous, ensuring lightweight but large boxes still cover space on the truck. Distance proxies the zone, so longer hauls amplify the billable weight to reflect transport cost.
Service levels reward speed: UPS Ground uses the lowest per-mile multiplier, UPS 3 Day Select applies a higher multiplier for faster arrival, and Next Day Air roughly doubles or triples the per-mile base because of the premium logistics. Fuel surcharge mirrors current diesel and aviation prices, added as a percentage of the base charge. Accessorials—like liftgate service, residential pickup, or delivery area surcharges—arrive as straight dollar additions.
Run the calculator with your package dimensions to see which factor dominates. For multi-package shipments, apply the same approach to each box and aggregate the sums, or adjust the service factor and surcharges to mirror negotiated UPS contracts.