If you’re looking to print large format projects, you’ve probably wondered whether FedEx or UPS is the better choice. Based on available data, FedEx often edges out UPS in speed, while UPS tends to offer slightly lower prices. But the real winner depends on what matters most to you—speed, cost, or something else. In this blog, we’ll help you figure out which service fits your needs so you can get your project done without stress.
Key Takeaways
FedEx is faster, with many stores open all day. This makes it great for urgent printing jobs.
UPS costs less, so it’s better for cheap, simple prints.
FedEx has more high-quality materials and custom options. It’s good for professional-looking projects.
Both let you print online. FedEx has better design tools. UPS is easier for quick orders.
Think about your needs: pick FedEx for speed and quality. Choose UPS for saving money and simplicity.
Overview of FedEx and UPS Large Format Printing Services
What Each Brand Offers for Large Format Projects
FedEx and UPS both provide large format printing services. FedEx Office offers many products like posters, banners, signs, and blueprints. You can pick materials such as glossy paper, vinyl, or canvas. They also add finishing touches like lamination and mounting for a polished look.
UPS focuses on being simple and reliable. They print posters, banners, and yard signs. Their material choices are fewer than FedEx’s but still good quality. UPS is great if you want easy and quick solutions without extra features.
Tip: FedEx helps with design setup, while UPS gives clear templates for your files.
Nationwide Availability and Online Options
FedEx and UPS have many locations across the U.S. FedEx Office has over 2,000 stores, some open 24/7. This is helpful for tight deadlines or late-night printing. UPS has more than 5,000 stores, but hours vary, so check ahead.
Both companies let you print online. FedEx’s website lets you upload files, customize prints, and schedule delivery. UPS’s online system is simpler and good for beginners. Both make printing large format projects easy without visiting a store.
Speed Comparison: Which Service Prints Large Format Projects Faster?
Turnaround Times for Urgent Projects
If you need to print fast, time is important. Both FedEx and UPS can work quickly, but their speeds depend on your project.
FedEx: Simple color copies are often done in a few hours. Bigger projects, like banners or posters, take 1-3 days. If you’re in a rush, FedEx offers faster services for extra cost.
UPS: UPS also handles small prints quickly, often the same day. Larger projects take about 1-3 days, similar to FedEx. Rush options might be available, but check with your local store first.
FedEx has some stores open 24/7, which helps with tight deadlines. You can start your project even late at night. UPS has more stores overall, but their hours differ, so plan ahead.
Tip: Call the store before going to confirm how long it will take. This helps avoid delays and keeps you on schedule.
Factors That Affect Printing Speed
Many things can change how fast your project gets printed. Knowing these can help you pick the right service.
Modern printers are very fast. Digital inkjet printers dry ink quickly and work on many materials. Both FedEx and UPS use advanced machines, but the exact type depends on the location.
Your project’s design also matters. Simple posters print faster than detailed designs. File setup is important too. If your files aren’t ready, it could slow things down. FedEx helps with design setup, while UPS gives clear templates to follow.
Busy times, like holidays or events, can also cause delays. Stores in high-demand areas might take longer to finish projects.
Pro Tip: Make sure your files are ready before sending them. Check the size, resolution, and format to avoid problems.
By thinking about these factors, you can plan better and save time. Whether you choose FedEx or UPS, being prepared will make the process smoother.
Cost Comparison: FedEx vs UPS for Large Format Printing
Pricing for Posters, Banners, and Signs
FedEx and UPS charge differently for large format projects. FedEx lets you pick premium materials like canvas or vinyl. These options can make costs higher. UPS uses simpler materials like standard paper or lightweight vinyl, which are cheaper.
FedEx posters start at $15 for basic prints. Banners cost $30 to $100 based on size and material. UPS posters start at $10, and banners range from $25 to $80. UPS is better for simple, low-cost projects. FedEx is good for high-quality finishes or special materials.
Tip: Check prices for your project’s size and material. Spending more for quality can improve your final product.
Discounts for Bulk Orders and Business Accounts
Both FedEx and UPS give discounts for bulk orders and business accounts. Savings depend on how much you ship or print.
Carrier | Discount Type | Discount Rate |
|---|---|---|
UPS | Account Holder Discounts | |
Personalized Discounts | Based on shipping needs and volume | |
FedEx | FedEx Express Discounts | Up to 30% on U.S. and international |
FedEx Ground Discounts | 15% on Ground and Home Delivery | |
FedEx Freight Discounts | Up to 70% on less-than-truckload | |
FedEx Office Discounts | 10% on print and copy services |
UPS gives bigger discounts for frequent shippers. FedEx offers discounts for many services, including printing. If you print often, FedEx’s 10% discount on print services can save money.
Note: Ask your local FedEx or UPS store about custom discounts. They may adjust rates for your needs.
Hidden Fees and Additional Costs
Extra fees can surprise you if you don’t check carefully. Both FedEx and UPS have fees for weight, size, and packaging. For example:
FedEx charges $29.00 to $36.00 for packages over 50 pounds.
UPS charges $35.00 for packages over 70 pounds.
FedEx adds fees for address corrections. UPS changes surcharge zones, which can affect costs.
During busy seasons, both carriers raise fees. In 2022, FedEx prices went up by 9.1%, and UPS prices rose by 10.2%. Reading the fine print helps you avoid unexpected costs.
Pro Tip: Ask for a full cost breakdown before ordering. This keeps you on budget and avoids surprises.
Quality and Extra Services for Large Format Printing
Print Quality and Material Choices
Both FedEx and UPS offer good print quality. FedEx uses premium materials like glossy paper, vinyl, and canvas. These make prints look sharp and last longer. UPS keeps it simple with fewer material options. Their quality works well for basic needs.
For banners or posters, FedEx is great for bright colors and clear details. UPS is better for simple projects without extra features.
Tip: Ask to see material samples before ordering. This helps you choose the right option.
Customization Options and File Help
FedEx has many customization tools. You can pick sizes, finishes, and add lamination or mounting. They also help with design setup, which is useful if you’re not a design expert. UPS uses easy templates. These let you upload files and start quickly.
If you need help with design, FedEx can save you time. If your file is ready, UPS is simple and fast.
Pro Tip: Check your file’s size and resolution before uploading. This ensures your prints look clear and sharp.
Delivery and Shipping Choices for Large Prints
Both FedEx and UPS deliver large format prints. FedEx offers faster shipping, even same-day in some areas. UPS delivers quickly too, but speed depends on your location. Both let you track orders online to know when they’ll arrive.
If you’re in a hurry, FedEx has 24/7 hours and fast shipping. UPS is a good choice for cheaper delivery options.
Note: Look at delivery fees before ordering. Costs depend on size and weight.
Convenience and Accessibility of FedEx and UPS
In-Store Experience and Customer Support
Visiting a FedEx or UPS store can affect your day. FedEx stores feel modern and professional. Staff help with file setup and materials. UPS stores are simple and fast, great if you know what you need.
Customer service ratings show how brands compare. While FedEx and UPS aren’t listed, here’s how other companies rank:
Provider | |
|---|---|
Amazon | 61.2 |
Chick-fil-A | 48.9 |
Apple | 45.4 |
Marriott | 44.7 |
FedEx and UPS may not match Amazon, but they try hard. FedEx staff often guide you through projects. UPS staff focus on speed, perfect for quick visits.
Online Ordering Platforms and Self-Service Options
Both FedEx and UPS make online orders easy. FedEx’s website has tools to customize sizes, materials, and finishes. UPS keeps it simple for fast orders.
Both companies use PUDO (Pick-Up and Drop-Off) networks. These let you pick up prints at nearby spots, saving time. Here’s why PUDO services are helpful:
FedEx doubled its PUDO services in the U.S. since 2018.
UPS has offered PUDO since 2013, with 5,000 locations.
PUDO makes deliveries faster and more efficient.
Shoppers often buy extra items during pickups.
If you want flexibility, PUDO services are very useful.
Store Locations and Hours of Operation
FedEx and UPS have many stores, but hours differ. FedEx has over 2,000 locations, many open 24/7. This is great for last-minute projects. UPS has 5,000 stores, but hours vary by location.
Check store hours online before visiting. FedEx’s 24/7 stores are good for late-night work. UPS’s wide network ensures a store is nearby. Whether you need late hours or close locations, both companies have options.
Use Cases: Choosing Between FedEx and UPS for Large Format Printing
Best for Retail Signage and Marketing Materials
FedEx and UPS can help with retail signage and marketing. FedEx is great for high-quality materials and custom designs. Glossy posters and bright banners from FedEx make a strong impression. Their lamination and mounting services add a polished look.
UPS works well for simple projects. They print basic yard signs and posters at lower prices. This makes UPS a smart choice for businesses with small budgets.
Here’s how signage connects to customer satisfaction:
Metric | What It Measures |
|---|---|
How happy customers are with the quality of signage. | |
Net Promoter Score (NPS) | How likely customers are to recommend the service. |
Foot Traffic and Dwell Time | How well signage attracts and keeps customers engaged. |
Conversion Rates | How signage helps turn visitors into buyers. |
Tip: If you want more customers or sales, FedEx’s high-quality signage may be worth the extra money.
Ideal for Trade Shows, Events, and Construction Graphics
Trade shows need big, bold displays. FedEx offers many materials and custom options for banners and backdrops. Their design help makes your graphics look professional and sharp.
UPS is better for construction graphics. They print blueprints, site maps, and other important documents. UPS is simple, fast, and affordable, which contractors like.
Both services handle large projects, but your needs decide the best fit. For colorful event visuals, choose FedEx. For clear and practical construction prints, UPS is a good pick.
Pro Tip: Check your file size and resolution before sending. This ensures your prints look clear and accurate with either service.
Deciding between FedEx and UPS for large format printing depends on your priorities.
Speed: FedEx is faster with 24/7 stores for urgent needs.
Cost: UPS is cheaper, great for simple printing jobs.
Quality: FedEx uses better materials and offers more custom options.
Convenience: Both have online tools and many locations, but FedEx’s long hours help with tight schedules.
Recommendation: Choose FedEx for quick service or top-quality prints. Pick UPS for affordable and easy printing. Match your project needs to the right service!
FAQ
1. Can I print big projects online with FedEx or UPS?
Yes, both let you upload files and customize prints online. FedEx has advanced design tools, while UPS is simpler for fast orders. You can also schedule delivery or pick-up.
2. Which is better for last-minute printing?
FedEx is great for urgent jobs. Many FedEx stores are open 24/7 and work quickly. UPS is fast too, but their hours vary, so check first.
3. Do they offer discounts for large orders?
Yes, both give discounts for bulk printing. FedEx gives 10% off for business accounts. UPS adjusts prices based on how much you order. Ask your local store for deals.
4. What materials can I pick for big prints?
FedEx has fancy options like glossy paper, vinyl, and canvas. UPS uses simpler materials like regular paper and lightweight vinyl, good for basic needs.
5. How can I avoid extra fees when printing?
Look out for extra charges like weight or delivery fees. FedEx charges for fixing addresses, and UPS changes rates for some zones. Always ask for a full price list before ordering.
