What Is Ground Advantage Shipping? Your Essential Guide for 2025

If you’ve been ordering online lately or shipping packages yourself, you’ve probably noticed something new popping up on checkout pages: Ground Advantage Shipping.  

You might be wondering! What is ground advantage shipping, and why is everyone talking about it in 2025? 

Well, here, we’re going to break it down in the simplest way possible. No confusing logistics jargon. Just a straight-up explanation of what it is, how it works, how long it takes, and whether it’s the right choice for you. 

By the end, you’ll know exactly what Ground Advantage is and when it’s the best option for your shipping needs. 

What is USPS Ground Advantage Shipping?

To answer the big question, What is Ground Advantage Shipping It’s basically the U.S. Postal Service’s way of simplifying its shipping services. 

In July 2023, USPS launched its ground advantage services. This was more like a replacement for a few of their older services, such as:  

• First-Class Package,  

• Parcel Select Ground, and  

• Retail Ground.  

To reduce confusion regarding the services, USPS decided to roll everything into a single, easy-to-understand service.  

Ground Advantage USPS is the go-to choice for affordable, reliable shipping across the country. It works for packages up to 70 pounds and is available to individuals, small businesses, and big online sellers alike. 

What Does Ground Shipping Mean?

Before we go into further details, first let’s take a pause and take a look at one of the common questions, “What does ground shipping mean?”  

If you ask me to describe this simply? I’d say ground shipping means your package can travel by trucks or vans, not via airplanes.  

This is the reason why it takes longer than express delivery, which is usually based on air transport. 

But, wait! Here comes the main deal! Ground advantage shipping does not use air transport; the pricing is a lot cheaper, and the services are eco-friendly. That’s why so many people, especially small businesses, prefer it. 

So when you hear “Ground Advantage Shipping,” it just means your package is going the good old-fashioned road-trip route instead of taking a flight. 

Why Did USPS Introduce Ground Advantage?

You might be wondering: “Why did USPS even bother creating this new service?” The short answer? To simplify and save money for customers. 

When ground advantage wasn’t a thing, the customers had to choose between  

• First-Class Package (for lighter items),  

• Retail Ground, and  

• Parcel Select Ground. 

The names were confusing, and the prices didn’t always make sense. 

USPS realized that people just wanted one affordable ground option that works for everything. So they introduced Ground Advantage as a single service that covers packages up to 70 lbs, includes tracking, and offers delivery within 2–5 business days. 

What’s Included with USPS Ground Advantage?

Now, that you have understood What is Ground Advantage Shipping, let’s take a look at the breakdown of what you get when you choose Ground Advantage USPS: 

1. Tracking: Every package comes with free monitoring, so you know where your shipment is at all times. 

2. Insurance: Up to $100 of insurance is included for both retail and commercial shipments. You can buy more if you need it. 

3. Flat Pricing: Whether you’re shipping a 5-ounce package or a 50-pound box, the rates are pretty easy to understand due to their consistency.  

4. Nationwide Service: It works across all 50 states, U.S. territories, and even to PO Boxes. This is something UPS and FedEx usually don’t do.  

5. Returns:  Businesses can use it for customer returns, which makes online shopping easier. 

How Much Does Ground Advantage Cost?

Pricing always changes a little each year, but as of early 2025, Ground Advantage rates are still one of the most budget-friendly shipping options in the U.S. 

Here’s a quick idea of the pricing: 

One thing that you must remember is that the pricing may vary based on the distance it covers. This is why Ground Advantage USPS has become a favorite for small businesses on Etsy, eBay, and Shopify. It’s reliable, predictable, and much more affordable than faster air options. 

When Should You Use Ground Advantage Shipping?

Now that we know what is ground advantage shipping, let’s talk about when it makes the most sense to use it. 

• For everyday packages: Yes! If you are planning to ship gifts, clothes, books, or electronics, you can opt for ground advantage shipping. This shipping mainly works for most items. 

• When speed isn’t urgent:  let’s say your friend’s birthday isn’t tomorrow, you don’t need overnight shipping. In that case, you can easily choose ground advantage shipping. 

• Beneficial for small businesses: For small businesses, Online sellers save a lot by using Ground Advantage instead of paying for express. 

• For heavy packages: It’s great for bigger shipments since it goes up to 70 lbs.  

In short, if you’re not in a rush but still want reliable shipping, Ground Advantage is the sweet spot. 

Ground Advantage vs. Priority Mail

A lot of people ask: “Should I use Ground Advantage or Priority Mail?” So, yes, when you are deciding between USPS ground advantage shipping and priority mail, you have to consider the following factors to understand the differences: 

So if your package needs to get there fast, Priority Mail is worth it. But if you’re fine with waiting a couple more days, Ground Advantage will save you money. 

Why People Love Ground Advantage in 2025

Since it launched, Ground Advantage USPS has been getting a lot of love from both everyday customers and small business owners. 

• Online sellers say it makes shipping simpler and cheaper. 

• Families love it for sending care packages without spending a fortune. 

• Customers enjoy the transparency, no confusing names or hidden fees. 

In fact, according to USPS reports in 2024, Ground Advantage handled hundreds of millions of packages within its first year. That number is only expected to grow in 2025. 

Final Thoughts: Is Ground Advantage Worth It?

So, let’s circle back to our main question: what is ground advantage shipping? 

It’s USPS’s affordable, reliable, and simplified ground delivery option for packages up to 70 lbs, delivered in 2–5 business days. It combines what used to be multiple services into one, making it easier (and cheaper) for everyone. 

If you’re a small business owner, someone who ships gifts, or just someone who shops online a lot, Ground Advantage is absolutely worth using in 2025. It’s the balance between saving money and still getting your package delivered on time. 

In short, when you don’t need express speed, but you want dependable and budget-friendly shipping, Ground Advantage is the way to go.

Read More:

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