Estimate shipping costs based on box volume and delivery speed.
Note: UPS calls their flat rate program UPS Simple Rate. Prices below are estimates for the continental U.S.
Extra Small (XS) – Up to 100 in³
Small (S) – 101 to 250 in³
Medium (M) – 251 to 650 in³
Large (L) – 651 to 1,050 in³
Extra Large (XL) – 1,051 to 1,728 in³
UPS Ground (1-5 Days)
UPS 3 Day Select
UPS 2nd Day Air
UPS Next Day Air Saver
Estimated Shipping Cost
$0.00
Based on package via .
function calculateUpsRate() {
var sizeSelect = document.getElementById('upsBoxSize');
var serviceSelect = document.getElementById('upsServiceLevel');
var size = sizeSelect.value;
var service = serviceSelect.value;
var resultBox = document.getElementById('resultBox');
var costDisplay = document.getElementById('shippingCost');
var sizeDisplay = document.getElementById('sizeDisplay');
var serviceDisplay = document.getElementById('serviceDisplay');
// Pricing Matrix (Approximate Retail Rates for UPS Simple Rate – Continental US)
// Structure: [Ground, 3Day, 2ndDay, NextDay]
var rates = {
'xs': { 'ground': 10.80, '3day': 18.50, '2day': 23.40, 'nextday': 34.50 },
's': { 'ground': 13.90, '3day': 24.20, '2day': 31.80, 'nextday': 45.20 },
'm': { 'ground': 17.50, '3day': 32.50, '2day': 44.60, 'nextday': 61.50 },
'l': { 'ground': 22.80, '3day': 44.20, '2day': 58.50, 'nextday': 78.40 },
'xl': { 'ground': 28.50, '3day': 56.50, '2day': 72.80, 'nextday': 94.50 }
};
var cost = 0;
if (rates[size] && rates[size][service]) {
cost = rates[size][service];
}
// Format and Display
costDisplay.innerHTML = '$' + cost.toFixed(2);
sizeDisplay.innerHTML = sizeSelect.options[sizeSelect.selectedIndex].text.split('-')[0].trim();
serviceDisplay.innerHTML = serviceSelect.options[serviceSelect.selectedIndex].text;
resultBox.style.display = 'block';
}
Understanding the UPS Flat Rate Box Calculator (Simple Rate)
When shipping heavily items or trying to predict shipping costs accurately, "Flat Rate" options are incredibly popular. While most people associate flat rate boxes with USPS, UPS offers a competitive alternative called UPS Simple Rate. This calculator helps you estimate the cost of shipping using this service based on the size of your package and your desired delivery speed.
What is UPS Simple Rate?
UPS Simple Rate is a predictable flat-rate pricing structure that allows you to ship packages anywhere in the U.S. for a fixed price, determined solely by the package's cubic size and the shipping speed. Unlike standard shipping, weight does not impact the price (as long as the package is under 50 lbs).
A key advantage of UPS Simple Rate over USPS Flat Rate is that you can use your own packaging. You do not need to use a specific UPS-branded box. As long as your box fits within the volume dimensions of the size category, it qualifies for the rate.
UPS Simple Rate Box Sizes
To use the UPS Flat Rate Box Calculator effectively, you must determine which size category your box falls into. This is calculated by volume (Length x Width x Height in inches).
Size Category
Volume (Cubic Inches)
Common Examples
Extra Small (XS)
1 – 100 in³
Smartphone box, mug, small accessories.
Small (S)
101 – 250 in³
Hardcover book, tissue box, t-shirt.
Medium (M)
251 – 650 in³
Shoebox, laptop, small kitchen appliance.
Large (L)
651 – 1,050 in³
Basketball, multiple shoeboxes, coat.
Extra Large (XL)
1,051 – 1,728 in³
Small microwave, large boots, bulk items.
How to Calculate Cubic Inches
To find your box's volume, measure the length, width, and height in inches.
Formula: Length x Width x Height = Cubic Inches.
Example: A box measuring 8″ x 6″ x 4″ = 192 cubic inches. This falls into the Small (S) category (101-250 in³).
Benefits of Using UPS Simple Rate
Use Your Own Box: No need to hunt for specific carrier-branded packaging.
Predictable Costs: Zones don't matter for the continental U.S. Shipping from New York to California costs the same as New York to New Jersey for the same size and speed.
Guaranteed Delivery: Includes options like UPS 2nd Day Air and Next Day Air Saver.
High Weight Limit: Allows up to 50 lbs, which is significant for small but dense items (like metal parts or books).
Service Levels Explained
UPS Ground: The most economical option. Delivery typically takes 1-5 business days depending on distance.
UPS 3 Day Select: Guaranteed delivery within three business days.
UPS 2nd Day Air: Guaranteed delivery by the end of the second business day.
UPS Next Day Air Saver: Guaranteed delivery by the end of the next business day (afternoon).
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on standard retail rates. Actual costs may vary based on fuel surcharges, residential delivery fees, or negotiated commercial rates.