Best Way to Ship to India: Compare FedEx, DHL, USPS & UPS
Are you struggling to find the best shipping partner for India? For U.S. companies and customers wishing to send Parcels to India from the USA, selecting the right courier service can be difficult.
Delayed deliveries, high costs, and customs issues may impact customer satisfaction and business growth. With so many options available, including FedEx, DHL, USPS, and UPS, discerning which best suits your needs can be challenging.
So, how do we select a cost-effective, reliable, and fastest way to ship to India?
In this guide, we will analyze various FedEx, UPS, DHL, and USPS so that you get to know which would suit your needs better for your business. We’ve got you, whether it is fast, cheap, or a relatively easy customs clearance! Let’s go!
Understanding the Core Shipping Players
Before going into comparison, let’s understand briefly about each shipping service:
- FedEx: FedEx is known for fast and reliable express shipping and is recognized for urgent deliveries.
- DHL: A thoroughbred international network commanding respect for expertise in customs clearance.
- USPS: Cost-effective for small packages but inefficient in tracking and reliability.
- UPS: A global powerhouse for logistics with various shipping options for businesses.
We will compare each shipper’s speed, reliability, cost, tracking, and customs clearance in this comparison.
Compare Shipping Carriers: FedEx vs. DHL vs. UPS vs. USPS
Shipping Carrier |
Best For |
Delivery Time to India |
Cost |
Tracking & Reliability |
Customs Handling |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
FedEx |
Fast & reliable shipping |
2-5 business days |
Expensive |
Excellent tracking & delivery guarantee |
Strong but slightly slower than DHL |
|
DHL |
Affordable international shipping |
2-5 business days |
More affordable than FedEx |
Very reliable with strong global network |
Best customs clearance support |
|
UPS |
Large & bulk shipments |
4-7 business days |
Expensive but good for heavy shipments |
Reliable tracking but slower than FedEx/DHL |
Good customs support but slower processing |
|
USPS |
Budget-friendly shipping |
6-10+ business days |
Cheapest option |
Limited tracking & reliability |
Minimal customs support, higher delay risk |
FedEx vs UPS: Who Offers Better Service for India?
FedEx vs UPS: Choosing involves cost, speed, and reliability.
Speed and Delivery Time :
FedEx focuses on express shipping, delivering parcels to India in 2-5 business days, while UPS’s Worldwide Expedited services take around 4-7 business days. Therefore, FedEx is faster.
Price Summary :
UPS is usually considered more expensive for international shipping, particularly urgent deliveries. However, UPS volume discounts may be more advantageous to customers for bigger shipments.
Reliability & Tracking :
Both FedEx and UPS offer good tracking services, although delivery time estimates by FedEx are often deemed more accurate.
Customs Handling :
FedEx has better customs backing, thereby decreasing the odds of delays. UPS provides customs brokerage options but may take longer to clear shipments.
Verdict: If speed is the benchmark, FedEx beats UPS for shipments to India.
FedEx vs DHL: Which One is More Reliable for India?
A major battle in international shipping is FedEx vs DHL. Both have extensive global networks, but key differences exist.
Speed & Transit Time :
FedEx’s International Priority delivery within 2-5 days in most parts, while DHL’s Express Worldwide has a similar delivery period, normally beating FedEx in metropolitan areas but slightly lagging in remote areas.
Cost and Affordability :
DHL works cheaper than FedEx for most international deliveries, especially for businesses making bulk shipments. FedEx does, however, provide discounts for bulk users.
Tracking and Reliability :
DHL is applauded for its better tracking system. FedEx also provides real-time tracking, but DHL has a slight advantage in visibility.
Customs and Clearance :
FedEx does well with customs in India, but DHL, which has more experience in customs clearance, often finishes with fewer delays.
Verdict: If affordable rates and customs handling are essential, choose DHL. However, FedEx has advantages in terms of speed and tracking accuracy.
FedEx vs USPS: Which One Offers a Better Deal?
When considering an inexpensive option, these companies compare FedEx vs USPS for shipments to India.
Speed and delivery time :
FedEx is 2-5 business days, while Priority Mail International is 6-10 days for USPS.
Cost comparison :
USPS is cheaper than FedEx, which is good for low-cost shipping; however, delivery times can take longer, and there is limited tracking, meaning it is less reliable for time-sensitive shipments.
Tracking and reliability :
FedEx does have detailed tracking, but tracking on USPS is limited once the package has left the U.S.
Clearance and handling :
FedEx has better customs support than USPS, which decreases the delays in clearance.
The final verdict: If cost is of the utmost concern, USPS is a better alternative; if reliability and speed are more important, FedEx wins.
UPS vs USPS: Cost vs Reliability
One can assume cost and reliability are the main factors when choosing between UPS and USPS.
Speed & Delivery Time :
DHL delivers within 2-5 days, while USPS works for up to 10 days.
Cost Comparisons :
USPS is cheaper still, but DHL offers superior reliability and tracking.
Tracking & Reliability :
DHL has better tracking than USPS.
Verdict: If reliability matters, DHL is an improvement on USPS.
DHL vs UPS: Who is the better shipper?
An assessment of DHL vs. UPS would begin with a comparison of logistics capabilities.
Speed and delivery time :
DHL is slightly faster than UPS in reaching parts of India.
Cost-effective :
Most shipments are cheaper via DHL than UPS.
Customs handling :
DHL specialises in customs clearance and could be a better option for shipments to India.
Winner: DHL is ahead of UPS in speed, price, and customs effectiveness.
Final Recommendation: The Best Shipping to India
What’s the best shipping option to India for business? A balance of price, speed, and security.
- FedEx is great for fast and reliable delivery.
- If the cost and customs clearance are priorities for you, then go with DHL.
- On the budget spectrum, USPS wins regarding the lowest shipping cost and least reliability.
- UPS is the best option for a good compromise between cost and reliability.
Businesses analyze shipping costs, customs efficiency, and transit times when deciding to ship to India from the USA.
Now, you will know how to pick an optimal shipping partner for your business, as there are clear differences between FedEx, UPS, DHL, USPS, UPS, DHL, and UPS.
Choosing the Right Shipping Service Based on Business Needs
While we’ve compared FedEx vs UPS, FedEx vs DHL, FedEx vs USPS, UPS vs USPS, DHL vs USPS, and DHL vs UPS, the final decision depends on your business requirements. Let’s break it down further based on different business needs:
1. Best for E-commerce Businesses :
DHL or FedEx are your best bet if you’re operating an online store and require speedy, dependable shipping to India.
- DHL is best for high-volume shipping businesses because it is cost-effective and handles great customs.
- FedEx: A good choice if you require guaranteed delivery times and dependable tracking.
- UPS: Dependable but typically more costly than FedEx or DHL.
- USPS: Good for low-cost, small package shipments, but tracking and dependability are limited.
Best Option: DHL or FedEx
2. Best for Time-Sensitive, Urgent Shipments :
When delivery time is the highest concern, FedEx and DHL are the quickest shipping carriers to India.
- FedEx International Priority is 2-5 days.
- DHL Express Worldwide usually delivers in 2-4 days, particularly in large cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
- UPS Express runs a bit behind, averaging 4-7 days.
- USPS Priority Mail International takes 6-10 days and is not the best for urgent shipments.
Best Option: DHL or FedEx
3. Best for Heavy or Bulk Shipments
If your company regularly ships large or heavy packages to India, UPS and DHL provide better options.
- DHL provides better rates for heavier shipments (over 20kg).
- UPS offers volume discounts and robust freight shipping.
- FedEx provides specialized freight services, but rates are generally higher than UPS or DHL.
- USPS is not best for heavy shipments because of weight limitations.
Best Choice: UPS or DHL
4. Best for Cost-Conscious Companies :
If saving on shipping expenses is the concern, USPS or DHL would be a better choice.
- USPS Priority Mail International has the lowest cost but is slower.
- DHL is competitively priced, particularly for regular shippers.
- UPS and FedEx are more costly.
Best Choice: USPS for low-cost shipping, DHL for budget-friendly reliability
5. Best for Dealing with Customs and Duties
Customs clearance is a significant problem when shipping to India. Delays may result from paperwork mistakes, duty fees, or package inspection. DHL and FedEx are superior to UPS and USPS in customs clearance.
- DHL has the upper hand in India, with customs brokerage services that accelerate clearance.
- FedEx also offers customs assistance, but it can take longer than DHL.
- UPS has good customs handling but can come with extra processing time.
- USPS provides limited customs assistance, and this can cause unpredictable delays.
Best Option: DHL or FedEx
Frequent Shipping Issues When Shipping to India
In spite of selecting any major shipping provider between FedEx, UPS, DHL or USPS you may still need to address delivery issues. Here’s how to handle them:
Final Thoughts
Still confused? It’s always best to try various carriers and compare their performance according to your shipping requirements. There isn’t one perfect service, but finding the right companion can save you money, avoid delays, and enhance customer satisfaction.
Price comparison, tracking capabilities, and delivery speed are crucial for the best shipping method to India.
Compare prices track features, and delivery speeds using online calculators from FedEx, UPS, DHL, and USPS to receive real-time shipping rates before choosing.
By following the right strategy, you can streamline your shipping process and make smooth, affordable deliveries to India, enabling your business to grow successfully.
1. Delays Due to Customs :
India has a tough customs process, and the packages can get held up if accurate documentation isn’t submitted. Make sure to:
- Correctly state the package contents and value.
- Attach invoices and required documentation.
- Use carriers such as DHL or FedEx that have customs brokerage services.
2. Excessive Shipping Charges :
If shipping charges are an issue, try:
- Utilizing DHL for discount rates based on volumes.
- Using USPS for cost-effective options.
Comparing various carriers on online shipping estimators.
3. Last-Mile Delivery Challenges :
After a package reaches India, delivery to customers can be delayed. DHL and FedEx have robust last-mile networks, while UPS and USPS might use third-party local couriers, resulting in delays.
4. Address Verification Issues :
Inaccurate or incomplete addresses can result in deliveries that fail. Ensure that:
- You double-check addresses with customers.
You use DHL or FedEx, which have improved address verification in India.
Final Thoughts: Which Shipping Carrier Should You Choose?
By this point, you should have a good sense of the strengths and weaknesses of each shipping company:
- FedEx vs UPS: FedEx is quicker, but UPS is more suitable for bulk shipments.
- FedEx vs DHL: DHL is less expensive, but FedEx has accurate tracking.
- FedEx vs USPS: USPS is less expensive, but FedEx is much more reliable.
- UPS vs USPS: USPS is affordable, but UPS is more reliable.
- DHL vs USPS: DHL is faster, easier to track, and better for customs clearance.
- DHL vs UPS: DHL is ideal for international shipping, whereas UPS is ideal for U.S. domestic shipping.
For companies seeking shipping services from USA to India, or Shipping to China from the USA the ideal choice would depend on your priorities:
- Quickest Delivery? → DHL or FedEx
- Cheapest Choice? → USPS or DHL
- Ideal for Big Shipments? → UPS or DHL
Ideal Customs Service? → DHL or FedEx
FAQs on FedEx vs. DHL vs. UPS vs. USPS
Which has the lowest cost for shipping to India: FedEx, UPS, DHL, or USPS?
USPS is the cheapest option, but it is slower and less reliable. DHL usually quotes a better rate for high volumes. FedEx and UPS are more costly but offer faster delivery and better tracking.
What shipping carrier sends the fastest to India?
DHL and FedEx are the quickest options, taking 2-5 business days. UPS takes 4-7 days, and USPS takes 6-10 days or more.
Is DHL superior to FedEx for India?
DHL is superior in customs clearance and cost savings, whereas FedEx provides superior tracking and time-definite delivery. The best option would depend on your shipping requirements.
Does UPS or FedEx manage customs better in India?
FedEx offers greater customs assistance but is the best at clearing products quickly. UPS also offers customs brokerage, but it takes longer in India.
What is the best shipping company for small businesses in India?
DHL is the premier choice for the cheapest, speedy global shipping and FedEx for assured delivery times in business. USPS should only be used for expedient, lower-cost shipments.
Kaushik Barot is the Founder of Jio Worldwide (https://jioworldwide.com/), a company dedicated to providing top-notch shipping and moving solutions. With a rich career spanning over three decades, Kaushik served at the State Bank of India from 1986 until his retirement in March 2023. During his tenure, he gained invaluable experience in leadership and management. Following his retirement, Kaushik embarked on a new venture in the shipping and moving industry, channeling his expertise and passion for delivering reliable services to clients worldwide. His entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his adaptability and drive for success.