Table of Contents

How Much Are Stamps at The UPS Store? A Postal Primer for the Discerning Shipper

The burning question: How much are stamps at The UPS Store? You’ll find that The UPS Store sells stamps at the current USPS retail price, which is generally $0.68 for a single First-Class Mail Forever Stamp as of late 2024. However, you’ll typically purchase them in booklets or coils. So, instead of buying one stamp at a time, you’ll be buying a book of 20 Forever Stamps for around $13.60. While the price per stamp matches the post office, remember that individual UPS Store locations are independently owned and operated franchises, which means there might be slight variations in availability and specific product offerings.

The UPS Store as a Stamp Source: Convenience vs. Cost

The UPS Store offers undeniable convenience. Need to ship a package and mail a letter simultaneously? They’ve got you covered. But before you stock up on stamps, let’s delve into the pros and cons to determine if The UPS Store is the best place for you to buy stamps.

Pros of Buying Stamps at The UPS Store

Convenience: This is the big one. You can buy stamps while taking care of other shipping and business needs. No need to make a separate trip to the post office.
Accessibility: Many UPS Store locations have extended hours compared to the post office, especially on evenings and weekends.
One-Stop Shop: They offer a wide range of shipping supplies, including envelopes, boxes, and packing materials, making it a convenient place to handle all your postal needs in one go.
Alternatives: If stamps aren’t your thing, consider other options they have such as printing postage directly from your computer using services like Stamps.com or USPS’s Click-N-Ship, potentially saving you time and trips.

Cons of Buying Stamps at The UPS Store

Limited Selection: While they carry Forever Stamps, you may not find a wide variety of specialty or commemorative stamps. If you are a collector, the post office is the better bet.
Potential Inventory Issues: Availability can vary by location. It’s always a good idea to call ahead, especially if you need a large quantity of stamps.
No Discount: Do not expect to receive any discounts when buying stamps from UPS, as the price is the same as the post office.

Understanding Forever Stamps: A Postal Hedge Against Inflation

Forever Stamps are the gold standard of postage. They are always valid for the current First-Class Mail one-ounce rate, regardless of when you bought them. This makes them a smart buy, particularly when postage rates are expected to increase (which, let’s be honest, is pretty much always). Even if the price of a first-class stamp goes up, your Forever Stamps remain good, forever! Think of them as a mini-insurance policy against postal inflation.

Beyond Forever Stamps: Other Postal Products at The UPS Store

While Forever Stamps are the most common, some UPS Store locations may also offer:

Postcards Stamps: Used for mailing postcards at a reduced rate.
Global Forever Stamps: Used for international mail.
Other Denomination Stamps: Although less common, they might have stamps to cover additional postage for heavier letters or packages.
Shipping Supplies: Envelopes, padded mailers, and other supplies are readily available.

Paying for Your Stamps: Accepted Methods

The UPS Store typically accepts various payment methods, including:

Cash: Always a reliable option.
Credit Cards: Most major credit cards are accepted.
Debit Cards: Debit cards are widely accepted.
Checks: Check acceptance may vary by location, so it’s best to inquire beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Buying Stamps at The UPS Store

Does The UPS Store sell individual stamps, or do I have to buy a booklet? Usually, The UPS Store sells stamps in booklets of 20 to simplify transactions. Single stamps are generally not available.
Are stamps at The UPS Store more expensive than at the post office? No, The UPS Store sells stamps at the same retail price as the USPS. The price per stamp is the same.
Can I use a coupon or discount to buy stamps at The UPS Store? Generally, no. Stamps are sold at a fixed rate set by the USPS, and discounts are not typically applicable.
Do all UPS Store locations carry stamps? Most UPS Store locations carry stamps, but availability can vary. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to confirm they have them in stock.
Can I return stamps to The UPS Store if I don’t need them? Generally, stamps are non-refundable. It’s best to buy only the quantity you need.
What kind of stamps does The UPS Store sell? They primarily sell First-Class Mail Forever Stamps. They may also carry postcard stamps and global Forever Stamps.
Can I pay for stamps with a personal check at The UPS Store? Check acceptance varies by location. It’s best to contact your local UPS Store to inquire about their check policy.
Is there a limit to how many stamps I can buy at The UPS Store? While there isn’t usually a hard limit, purchasing very large quantities might require a heads-up to ensure they have enough stock.
Can I buy stamps online from The UPS Store? No, The UPS Store does not typically sell stamps online. You must purchase them in person at a physical location.
Are stamps from The UPS Store valid at any post office? Yes, stamps purchased from The UPS Store are valid at any USPS location.
Does The UPS Store sell metered postage? No, The UPS Store does not sell metered postage. Metered postage requires a postage meter or online service like Stamps.com.
What are the hours of operation for The UPS Store to buy stamps? The hours of operation vary by location, but they are generally open longer hours than the post office, including evenings and weekends. Use the online store locator tool on the UPS Store website.

The Verdict: Is The UPS Store Your Stamp Destination?

Buying stamps at The UPS Store is undeniably convenient, especially if you’re already there for other shipping needs. You pay the same price as the post office. If you need Forever Stamps and value the convenience, The UPS Store is a solid option. However, for stamp collectors or those seeking a wider variety, the post office remains the preferred choice. Ultimately, the best place to buy stamps depends on your individual needs and priorities.