UPS Flat Rate Envelope Calculator (US)
Estimate shipping costs for UPS Express Envelopes based on service level and zone.
UPS Next Day Air® Early
UPS Next Day Air®
UPS Next Day Air Saver®
UPS 2nd Day Air A.M.®
UPS 2nd Day Air®
Zone 2 (0-150 miles / Local)
Zone 3 (151-300 miles)
Zone 4 (301-600 miles)
Zone 5 (601-1000 miles)
Zone 6 (1001-1400 miles)
Zone 7 (1401-1800 miles)
Zone 8 (1801+ miles / Cross Country)
Commercial / Business
Residential (Home Delivery)
Base Transportation Charge:
$0.00
Residential Surcharge:
$0.00
Fuel Surcharge:
$0.00
Total Estimated Cost:
$0.00
*Rates are estimates based on standard retail pricing logic. Actual rates vary by account contract.
Guide to UPS Flat Rate Envelope Shipping
Shipping documents and small items via UPS is often most cost-effective when using the UPS Express Envelope. Unlike the United States Postal Service (USPS) "Flat Rate" envelopes which cost the same regardless of distance, UPS Express Envelopes are generally rated based on Zones (distance) and the Service Level (speed), although the weight is considered flat (usually up to 8oz or sometimes 1 lb depending on the specific contract) as long as the contents fit comfortably within the envelope.
How UPS Calculates Envelope Rates
When using a UPS Express Envelope, you are paying for the premium air network. The cost calculation involves three primary factors:
- Service Level: Faster delivery (Next Day Air Early) costs significantly more than standard expedited options (2nd Day Air).
- Zone (Distance): The US is divided into zones based on the origin zip code. Zone 2 is local, while Zone 8 usually represents a coast-to-coast shipment. The further the distance, the higher the base rate.
- Surcharges: Residential delivery adds a surcharge compared to commercial addresses. Additionally, a fluctuating fuel surcharge is applied to the total transportation cost.
Important Note on "Flat Rate": Many shippers confuse UPS Express Envelopes with UPS Simple Rate. UPS Simple Rate is a different program that offers truly flat pricing nationwide for varied box sizes. The calculator above specifically estimates costs for the classic Express Envelope used for urgent documents.
UPS Express Envelope Service Levels
| Service Name | Delivery Commitment | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| UPS Next Day Air® Early | Next business day, as early as 8:00 a.m. | Critical, time-sensitive documents. |
| UPS Next Day Air® | Next business day, typically by 10:30 a.m. | Standard overnight business shipping. |
| UPS Next Day Air Saver® | Next business day, by end of day. | Overnight shipping where morning delivery isn't required. |
| UPS 2nd Day Air® | Second business day. | Non-urgent express shipments. |
Weight Limits and Rules
While often referred to as "Flat Rate," the UPS Express Envelope has specific rules. Generally, for domestic US shipments:
- There is no weight limit for the envelope as long as the envelope seals properly, but rates are typically based on the letter rate.
- If the weight exceeds roughly 8 ounces (depending on specific account terms), it may be rated at the 1 lb rate, though it is still considered an envelope shipment.
- Value protection is usually limited unless additional Declared Value is purchased.
Residential vs. Commercial Delivery
UPS applies a Residential Surcharge to shipments delivered to a home or private residence, including a business operating out of a home that does not have a public entrance. This fee typically ranges from $4.00 to $6.00 depending on the year and contract specifics. Commercial addresses do not incur this specific surcharge, making business-to-business (B2B) shipping cheaper.