What Is the Difference Between USPS Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express?
When mailing a package through the United States Postal Service (USPS), customers often encounter two similar-sounding options: Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express. Though their names suggest they serve the same purpose, these services cater to different shipping needs. Understanding what sets them apart is essential for choosing the right one for your delivery.
At first glance, Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express appear quite similar. Both services offer faster delivery than USPS Ground Advantage and prioritize expedited handling within the USPS network. They also have the same weight limit (70 lbs), include free tracking, and offer insurance coverage of up to $100 against loss, damage, or missing contents. Both services also offer flat-rate packaging options and free package pickup.
However, there are also quite a few differences between the two services, and knowing them is crucial for finding the right balance between delivery speed, cost, and reliability. The first difference is delivery speed. Although both are considered expedited shipping services, Priority Mail Express is faster. Priority Mail items usually arrive in two to three business days, depending on their origin, destination, and acceptance time. Priority Mail Express offers delivery in one to three days, often overnight to major cities. Additionally, Priority Mail Express includes a money-back guarantee; you are entitled to a refund if the item arrives after the expected delivery date.
Additionally, Priority Mail does not deliver on Sundays or holidays, while Priority Mail Express delivers seven days a week, 365 days a year, with limited exceptions. However, Sunday and holiday delivery with Priority Mail Express is available for an additional fee.
Speedy delivery and a money-back guarantee come at a price. Priority Mail Express is more expensive than Priority Mail. As of November 2025, Priority Mail prices start at $10.45 at the post office, while Priority Mail Express prices start at $32.50.
Both services are fast and reliable, but Priority Mail Express is faster and offers guaranteed delivery times. So, the choice boils down to whether you prioritize guaranteed delivery dates or cost. Priority Mail Express is the better option for urgent deliveries with guaranteed delivery dates, whereas Priority Mail is a good option for situations when you need fast, but not urgent, delivery and do not want to overpay.
The above information concerns domestic services. The USPS offers similar international delivery services: Priority Mail International and Priority Mail Express International. They are pretty much the same as their domestic versions: both services are fast, but Priority Mail International is somewhat slower and more affordable.
Priority Mail Express International delivers to most destinations in three to five business days and offers guaranteed delivery dates with a money-back guarantee for some destinations. As of November 2025, its cost starts at $59.50. Priority Mail International delivers in six to ten business days, with costs starting at $30.90. Both international services include tracking and insurance of up to $200 for merchandise.