Short Answer: Yes, UPS retail stores sell USPS stamps. You can buy Forever stamp booklets from them in various designs. However, there is an additional surcharge.
So, you want to buy postage stamps? And wondering whether the UPS Store near you sells them. In short, yes, they do, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. We’ll dive into those and the benefits of purchasing stamps at a UPS store.
Where to Buy Stamps at UPS Locations
You can buy stamps inside a UPS location at their usual counter. They sell them as a standard product. However, they charge a convenience fee while purchasing USPS Forever stamps.
Yes, you can buy stamps at the UPS Store, which has thousands of franchise locations across the United States. The UPS store is one of the most convenient alternatives to traditional post offices.
However, not all UPS locations are the same. The standard UPS Store locations and retail franchise operations sell USPS products. But the UPS Access Points and UPS Customer centers may have limited stamp availability.
Types of Stamps Available at UPS Stores
UPS stores are dedicated shipping stores that offer various types of stamps, including Forever stamps, Postcard stamps, and other denomination stamps, as well as additional services.
Forever stamps are the most popular option, which cost $0.78 each; a standard booklet contains 20 stamps and costs $15.60. Aside from stamps, they also offer other services such as metered mail and postcards.
UPS vs USPS: Where Should You Buy Stamps?
You can buy stamps at both UPS and USPS locations, and they sell a variety of stamps. However, there are many factors to consider, as the price difference between them is significant. UPS stores charge a significant convenience fee when purchasing the stamps. This convenience fee can vary from store to store, as the store manager determines it. This puts them at a significant disadvantage when compared to USPS post offices.
Can You Buy Forever Stamps at UPS?
Yes, you can easily buy Forever Stamps, as they primarily offer various shipping services. They are also an authorized supplier of USPS’s postage service. It is important not to confuse the UPS service center with UPS retail stores. Only the UPS retail stores sell stamps.
Stamp Prices at UPS Stores Explained
The UPS retail stores charge standard rates on the stamps, but the actual amount is higher due to additional convenience charges. These charges can reach 50% of the face value at some stores.
Even though stamps can’t be overcharged or discounted, you have to pay extra money in the form of convenience charges. According to USPS, the current price for a booklet of 20 First-Class Forever stamps is $15.60, which won’t change until mid-2026.
Are UPS Stamps Authentic and USPS Approved?
Yes, the stamps sold at UPS stores are completely authentic because UPS is a major parcel service in the US and also an authorized retailer of USPS stamps. The UPS Store also provides other postal services, such as weigh mail, label printing, and expert guidance, because its staff is knowledgeable about postage.
Alternative Places to Buy Stamps Besides UPS
Utilize these alternative locations if you don’t have a UPS store nearby or don’t want to pay an extra amount:
USPS website or post office: The USPS post offices remain the best option for buying stamps at face value. USPS also lets you buy online on its official website.
Grocery stores: You can also buy postage stamps at most Grocery stores. They also sell them at face value without charging any surcharge. These stores include Kroger, Publix, and Target.
Other locations include Office supply stores such as Office Depot and Staples, gas stations like 7-Eleven and Speedway, and a few Public Libraries, including the Chippewa Library.
Is Buying Stamps from UPS Worth It?
UPS stores offer postage stamps and services, a convenient option for those with busy schedules. Even though you have to pay a little extra for the convenience of the stores, to understand the value, consider the gains and losses of UPS stores.
Pros and Cons of Buying Stamps at UPS
Pros:
- Other Postal Service: UPS stores not only sell postage but also offer other postal services. These services include Priority Mail, Certified Mail, First-Class Mail, Metered Mail, and international mail services.
- All-in-one shipping stores: These stores offer a full range of shipping services. You can buy stamps, package your mail, and also deposit it at the same location. This saves a lot of extra time.
Cons:
- Convenience fee: Most UPS stores charge an additional convenience fee of 20-50%, which can greatly increase the cost of stamps.
- Limited designs: UPS stores sell only stamps with basic designs, nowhere near the sheer number of fun designs available at the post office.
Final Verdict:
The UPS retail stores are a reliable, legitimate, and convenient backup option for purchasing USPS stamps. They sell real Forever stamps, but you’ll have to pay extra for the privilege. But if you need a single stamp or don’t want to pay anything extra, a Post Office would still be a better choice.
