is ups and usps the same? UPS (United Parcel Service) and USPS (United States Postal Service) are two separate entities that offer shipping services. While both provide similar services, such as package delivery and logistics, they operate independently and have different business models. USPS is a government-run service that provides mail and package delivery at competitive rates, especially for smaller items, while UPS is a private courier service that specializes in larger, expedited shipments. UPS often focuses on business and commercial shipping, while USPS is more focused on residential deliveries and small-scale services.