UPS and American Express Partner to Cut Holiday Shipping Costs for Small Businesses

Business
Written By Join GRITS

A Seasonal Boost for SMBs

For small businesses, the holiday season is both a massive opportunity and a daunting challenge. Sales spike as consumers shop for gifts, but so do costs, especially shipping fees. Every year, major carriers introduce surcharges during peak season, leaving entrepreneurs struggling to maintain profit margins.

This year, however, UPS is introducing new support for small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs). In partnership with American Express, UPS is offering discounted shipping rates during the 2025 holiday season. The initiative is designed to reduce operational expenses for SMBs at a time when every dollar matters.

Why the Discounts Matter

Historically, large retailers have been able to absorb peak shipping costs thanks to bulk deals and long-term carrier contracts. Small businesses, on the other hand, often face the full weight of seasonal surcharges. These UPS discounts aim to level the playing field, allowing SMBs to compete more effectively with big-box competitors.

For many entrepreneurs, the savings could add up to thousands of dollars in reduced shipping costs, a critical relief when paired with inflation, rising supply chain expenses, and tighter customer budgets.

Key Benefits of the UPS and American Express Program

  • Discounted domestic and international shipping to offset holiday surcharges.

  • Partnership support from American Express, adding credibility and financial backing.

  • Potential savings for SMBs that can be reinvested into marketing, inventory, or customer service.

  • A competitive edge in offering faster and more affordable shipping options to customers.

The Bigger Trend: Logistics Meets Financial Services

This partnership highlights a growing trend in the business landscape: collaborations between logistics companies and financial service providers. By joining forces, UPS and American Express are providing practical solutions that address one of the biggest SMB pain points: rising operational costs.

Industry experts believe this approach not only helps small businesses survive the holiday season but also builds long-term loyalty for both brands.

What It Means for Entrepreneurs

For small business owners, the message is clear: smart partnerships and cost-saving opportunities can be game changers during peak sales periods. With e-commerce demand projected to remain strong through the holidays, the UPS and American Express program could help entrepreneurs finish the year in the black, rather than just breaking even.

If you’re an SMB preparing for the holiday rush, it’s worth exploring how these discounted rates can fit into your operations strategy. The correct shipping solution could be the difference between a profitable season and a stressful one.

Join GRITS