United Postal Service, or UPS, ground is the lowest cost shipping method available for most shipments by UPS. All items shipped by UPS have a tracking number; this allows customers to check the status of the package online and determine when UPS will likely deliver it. This can be beneficial for students waiting for a book for their class. According to the UPS website, shipment by UPS ground normally takes one to five days, though this is not guaranteed.
Media Mail is a shipping service offered by the United States Postal Service, USPS. Media Mail is only available for books, recordings and other media items without advertisements. In most cases, textbooks are eligible for Media Mail shipping. Media Mail is often the cheapest method for shipping heavier items, but because of the guidelines in place, the United States' postal service reserves the right to search all packages shipped by this method. According to the USPS website, Media Mail does not have a guaranteed shipping time, and it is subject to deferred delivery.
Priority Mail Flat Rate is another option available by the United States Postal Service. Flat rate means that the package costs the same no matter how heavy it is, as long as it fits comfortably in the envelope or box. In April 2011, items that will fit in a flat rate priority envelope ship for $4.95 and those that require a medium flat rate box cost $10.95. Other-box sizes are available, but most textbooks will fit in this medium box. According to the USPS website, Priority Mail shipping delivers in two days, in many cases.
FedEx ground is the lowest-priced shipping option offered by FedEx. The FedEx website states that its rates are among the most cost effective available. Shipping by this method normally takes one to five business days. Like UPS ground, a customer can track shipping online to plan for the arrival of the book.