UPS is helping out the little guy this holiday season: It’s forging a new partnership with American Express to provide small and medium-sized businesses with discounted shipping rates through the beginning of next year.
It’s no secret that many logistics businesses are hurting right now. Between the persistent trucker shortage and the complicated tariff situation, many companies are struggling to stay afloat to see how it all shakes out. Even UPS itself has seen significant layoffs over the last few months.
That could be why they’re taking a big swing to attract small and medium-sized businesses to their operation, with some hearty discounts that could actually make a difference for many companies in 2025.
UPS & American Express Partner for Lower Rates
This week, UPS announced a partnership with American Express that aims to provide small businesses with a bit more wiggle room when it comes to shipping their products.
More specifically, merchants that use the Business Savings Suite from American Express will now officially get some exclusive discounts on air, ground, and international. On top of that, the rates get even lower the more you ship, which could help small businesses that are trying to grow.
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The lowered rates come at the perfect time for businesses that are likely enduring the stress of tariffs and preparing for a stressful holiday season. The rates will be available throughout the busy season too, as they won’t expire until February 28th, 2026.
Why Is UPS Offering Lower Rates to Small Businesses?
It’s not easy for small businesses right now, particularly those that rely on shipping products. The tariff situation alone is causing some businesses to shutter their windows, and UPS seems to want to help alleviate that as much as possible.
“While our customers who have scale may be able to thwart the impact of rising costs due to tariffs, many of our SMB customers may not.” – Carol Tomé, CEO of UPS, on a July earnings call
On top of that, attracting small business owners is very much in the interest of UPS, as well. Many are looking for alternative shipping options after Trump got rid of the de minimis exemption and UPS could really cash in if they represent an attractive offer.
Tariff Volatility in the Logistics Industry
While this partnership between UPS and American Express is good for small businesses, the reality of the tariff situation for logistics businesses is far more complicated.
In fact, UPS recently announced new international processing fees for packages shipped into the US, pointing to a lot of volatility in an industry doing its best to keep up with the constantly shifting regulations surrounding the shipping world in 2025.
Logistics businesses can expect more volatility in the coming months and even years, as these policies start to take effect and really impact the economy.
