United Parcel Service (UPS)


Market Price (11/5/2026): $114.0 | Market Cap: $97.0 BilInvestor Relations Sector: Industrials | Industry: Air Freight & Logistics

United Parcel Service (UPS)


Market Price (11/5/2026): $114.0
Market Cap: $97.0 Bil
Sector: Industrials
Industry: Air Freight & Logistics

Investment Highlights Why It Matters Detailed financial logic regarding cash flow yields vs trend-riding momentum.

0

Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 10%, Dividend Yield is 5.6%, ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is 4.9%, FCF Yield is 6.5%

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 10%, CFO LTM is 9.3 Bil, FCF LTM is 6.4 Bil

Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 1.5 Bil

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 30%

Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include E-commerce & Digital Retail, E-commerce & DTC Adoption, Automation & Robotics, and Future of Freight. Show more.

Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -1.3%

Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -33%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -84%

Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -0.6%

Key risks
UPS key risks include [1] potential operational disruptions from ongoing labor disputes with the Teamsters union and [2] a significant revenue impact from its strategic decision to drastically reduce volume from its former largest customer, Show more.

0 Attractive yield
Total YieldTotal Yield = Earnings Yield + Dividend Yield, Earnings Yield = Net Income / Market Cap Dividend Yield = Total Dividends / Market Cap is 10%, Dividend Yield is 5.6%, ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is 4.9%, FCF Yield is 6.5%
1 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO/Rev LTMCash Flow from Operations / Revenue (Sales), Last Twelve Months (LTM) is 10%, CFO LTM is 9.3 Bil, FCF LTM is 6.4 Bil
2 Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 1.5 Bil
3 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 30%
4 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include E-commerce & Digital Retail, E-commerce & DTC Adoption, Automation & Robotics, and Future of Freight. Show more.
5 Trading close to highs
Dist 52W High is -1.3%
6 Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -33%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -84%
7 Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -0.6%
8 Key risks
UPS key risks include [1] potential operational disruptions from ongoing labor disputes with the Teamsters union and [2] a significant revenue impact from its strategic decision to drastically reduce volume from its former largest customer, Show more.

UPS in ETFs

Weight = UPS's share of each fund

SPY0.13%
VOO0.11%
IVV0.12%
VTI0.10%
ITOT0.11%
IWB0.12%
RSP0.21%
VTV0.27%
+28 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 11/4/2026

United Parcel Service (UPS) stock has gained about 10% since 7/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q3 2026 Earnings Beat and Raised Full-Year Guidance.

United Parcel Service (UPS) reported adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.69 for fiscal Q3 2026 (ending September 30, 2026), exceeding analysts' expectations of $1.63 by 3.68%. Consolidated revenue for the quarter reached $22.9 billion, a 6.7% year-over-year increase, surpassing the $22.27 billion estimate. Following these results, UPS raised its full-year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to approximately $7.28 from a previous forecast of $7.22, and its full-year revenue guidance to approximately $92.6 billion from $91.2 billion. This positive earnings report led to a 5.75% increase in UPS's stock price on October 27, 2026.

2. Successful Restructuring and Strategic Shift Towards Higher-Value Shipments.

By August 11, 2026, UPS had successfully completed its restructuring efforts, which involved streamlining its network and strategically reducing its low-margin Amazon volume. This initiative allowed UPS to focus on more profitable shipments and customers, particularly small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprise clients. This shift contributed to a 6.1% year-over-year increase in U.S. revenue per piece in fiscal Q3 2026. Additionally, average daily volume from SMBs increased by 3.7%, constituting a record 35.1% of total U.S. volume.

Show more
Updated on 11/4/2026

United Parcel Service (UPS) stock has gained about 10% since 7/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Strong Fiscal Q3 2026 Earnings Beat and Raised Full-Year Guidance.

United Parcel Service (UPS) reported adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.69 for fiscal Q3 2026 (ending September 30, 2026), exceeding analysts' expectations of $1.63 by 3.68%. Consolidated revenue for the quarter reached $22.9 billion, a 6.7% year-over-year increase, surpassing the $22.27 billion estimate. Following these results, UPS raised its full-year 2026 adjusted EPS guidance to approximately $7.28 from a previous forecast of $7.22, and its full-year revenue guidance to approximately $92.6 billion from $91.2 billion. This positive earnings report led to a 5.75% increase in UPS's stock price on October 27, 2026.

2. Successful Restructuring and Strategic Shift Towards Higher-Value Shipments.

By August 11, 2026, UPS had successfully completed its restructuring efforts, which involved streamlining its network and strategically reducing its low-margin Amazon volume. This initiative allowed UPS to focus on more profitable shipments and customers, particularly small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) and enterprise clients. This shift contributed to a 6.1% year-over-year increase in U.S. revenue per piece in fiscal Q3 2026. Additionally, average daily volume from SMBs increased by 3.7%, constituting a record 35.1% of total U.S. volume.

3. Improved Operational Efficiency and Favorable Industry Dynamics.

UPS's emphasis on network efficiency, including greater automation, contributed to a 14.3% year-over-year increase in U.S. Domestic operating profit during fiscal Q3 2026, exceeding $1 billion. Concurrently, the broader transportation and logistics industry experienced tightening market conditions in fiscal Q3 2026, characterized by rising truckload spot rates and tender rejections, primarily due to regulatory actions reducing trucking capacity. This environment, combined with UPS's strategic positioning and an 18.2% growth in its Supply Chain Solutions segment, supported by healthcare initiatives, further bolstered the company's performance.

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Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The 11.4% change in UPS stock from 7/31/2026 to 11/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 32.4% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)731202611042026Change
Stock Price ($)102.58114.3111.4%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)88,31791,3683.5%
Net Income Margin (%)5.9%4.8%-18.6%
P/E Multiple16.622.032.4%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)850851-0.1%
Cumulative Contribution11.4%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

7/31/2026 to 11/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS11.4% 
Market (SPY)2.6%21.9%
Sector (XLI)-5.8%20.3%

Fundamental Drivers

The 8.5% change in UPS stock from 4/30/2026 to 11/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 37.1% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)430202611042026Change
Stock Price ($)105.32114.318.5%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)88,66191,3683.1%
Net Income Margin (%)6.3%4.8%-23.0%
P/E Multiple16.022.037.1%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)849851-0.2%
Cumulative Contribution8.5%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

4/30/2026 to 11/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS8.5% 
Market (SPY)7.0%28.8%
Sector (XLI)-2.7%33.2%

Fundamental Drivers

The 26.3% change in UPS stock from 10/31/2025 to 11/4/2026 was primarily driven by a 64.5% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)1031202511042026Change
Stock Price ($)90.48114.3126.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)90,31391,3681.2%
Net Income Margin (%)6.3%4.8%-23.7%
P/E Multiple13.422.064.5%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)847851-0.5%
Cumulative Contribution26.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

10/31/2025 to 11/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS26.3% 
Market (SPY)13.4%30.3%
Sector (XLI)10.2%41.5%

Fundamental Drivers

The -3.9% change in UPS stock from 10/31/2023 to 11/4/2026 was primarily driven by a -53.5% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)1031202311042026Change
Stock Price ($)118.98114.31-3.9%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)96,17491,368-5.0%
Net Income Margin (%)10.4%4.8%-53.5%
P/E Multiple10.222.0115.3%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)8608511.1%
Cumulative Contribution-3.9%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

10/31/2023 to 11/4/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS-3.9% 
Market (SPY)89.7%37.6%
Sector (XLI)79.2%44.0%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
UPS Return30%-15%-6%-16%-16%21%-12%
Peers Return39%-20%26%-0%21%19%100%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%11%102%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
UPS Win Rate58%67%50%33%58%64% 
Peers Win Rate62%42%58%52%67%55% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%36% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
UPS Max Drawdown-17%-30%-30%-22%-36%-21% 
Peers Max Drawdown-16%-34%-19%-22%-28%-26% 
S&P 500 Max Drawdown-5%-25%-10%-8%-19%-9% 


[1] Cumulative total returns since the beginning of 2021
[2] Peers: FDX, ODFL, CHRW, EXPD, JBHT. See UPS Returns vs. Peers.
[3] Win Rate = % of calendar months in which monthly returns were positive
[4] Max drawdown represents maximum peak-to-trough decline within a year
[5] 2026 data is for the year up to 11/4/2026 (YTD)

How Low Can It Go

EventUPSS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-20.1%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven25.1%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven289 days79 days
2020 COVID-19 Crash
  % Loss-18.5%-33.7%
  % Gain to Breakeven22.7%50.9%
  Time to Breakeven85 days140 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-23.0%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven29.9%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven213 days105 days
2015-2016 China Devaluation / Global Growth Scare
  % Loss-13.2%-12.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven15.2%13.9%
  Time to Breakeven55 days62 days
2011 US Debt Ceiling Crisis & European Contagion
  % Loss-16.4%-17.9%
  % Gain to Breakeven19.6%21.8%
  Time to Breakeven119 days123 days
2010 Eurozone Sovereign Debt Crisis / Flash Crash
  % Loss-16.6%-15.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven19.9%18.2%
  Time to Breakeven63 days125 days

Compare to FDX, ODFL, CHRW, EXPD, JBHT

In The Past

United Parcel Service's stock fell -20.1% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 25.1% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

EventUPSS&P 500
2025 US Tariff Shock
  % Loss-20.1%-18.8%
  % Gain to Breakeven25.1%23.1%
  Time to Breakeven289 days79 days
Q4 2018 Fed Policy Error / Growth Scare
  % Loss-23.0%-19.2%
  % Gain to Breakeven29.9%23.8%
  Time to Breakeven213 days105 days
2008-2009 Global Financial Crisis
  % Loss-45.6%-53.4%
  % Gain to Breakeven83.8%114.4%
  Time to Breakeven402 days1085 days

Compare to FDX, ODFL, CHRW, EXPD, JBHT

In The Past

United Parcel Service's stock fell -20.1% during the 2025 US Tariff Shock. Such a loss loss requires a 25.1% gain to breakeven.

Preserve Wealth

Limiting losses and compounding gains is essential to preserving wealth.

Asset Allocation

Actively managed asset allocation strategies protect wealth. Learn more.

About United Parcel Service (UPS)

United Parcel Service (UPS) is a global leader in logistics and package delivery. The company primarily operates through two core segments: U.S. Domestic Package and International Package. The U.S. Domestic segment provides time-definite delivery services for letters, documents, small packages, and palletized freight across the United States, utilizing an extensive network of air and ground transportation.

The International Package segment extends UPS's reach worldwide, offering guaranteed day and time-definite international shipping services to regions including Europe, Asia Pacific, Canada, Latin America, the Indian sub-continent, the Middle East, and Africa, spanning approximately 200 countries and territories. This global network is crucial for businesses and individuals requiring reliable cross-border shipping.

Beyond traditional package delivery, UPS offers a comprehensive suite of supply chain and specialized services. These include international air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, distribution, post-sales support, and consulting services. The company also provides truckload brokerage, advanced supply chain solutions tailored for the healthcare and life sciences sectors, and various shipping, visibility, and billing technologies, catering to a diverse range of individual and business customers globally.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Here are a few analogies for United Parcel Service (UPS):

  • Like FedEx.
  • The private, global equivalent of the U.S. Postal Service.
  • Imagine the Amazon delivery system, but for any company or individual worldwide.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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  • Package Delivery Services: Provides time-definite delivery of letters, documents, small packages, and palletized freight through air and ground services, both domestically and internationally.
  • Freight Forwarding: Offers international air and ocean freight forwarding services.
  • Customs Brokerage: Assists clients with customs clearance and compliance for international shipments.
  • Logistics and Distribution Solutions: Includes distribution, post-sales support, and specialized supply chain solutions for industries such as healthcare.
  • Truckload Brokerage: Arranges full truckload transportation services for businesses.
  • Technology Solutions: Develops and provides shipping, visibility, and billing technologies to enhance logistics management.
  • Financial and Insurance Services: Offers financial and insurance products related to its transportation and logistics operations.
  • Consulting Services: Provides expert advice on logistics and supply chain optimization.
```

AI Analysis | Feedback

United Parcel Service (UPS) primarily sells its services to other companies (Business-to-Business or B2B) rather than individuals. Due to the vast and diverse nature of its customer base, spanning virtually all industries globally, UPS does not publicly disclose the names of its individual major customer companies. Its services are integral to the supply chains of countless businesses worldwide.

However, the major categories of companies that rely heavily on UPS for their operations include:

  • E-commerce Businesses and Retailers: Companies of all sizes, from large online marketplaces to small direct-to-consumer brands, use UPS for shipping products to their customers (both domestically and internationally).
  • Manufacturers and Distributors: Businesses across various sectors (e.g., automotive, electronics, consumer goods, industrial products) utilize UPS for transporting raw materials, components, finished goods, and managing complex supply chains.
  • Healthcare and Life Sciences Companies: As explicitly mentioned in the company description, this sector relies on UPS for specialized logistics, including temperature-controlled shipping, urgent deliveries, and compliance with strict regulations for pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and other sensitive materials.
  • Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs): A broad array of SMBs across virtually every industry use UPS for their shipping needs, from documents and small packages to freight services.

While individuals do use UPS for personal shipping (Consumer-to-Consumer or C2C) and returning items to businesses, the core of UPS's revenue and operational focus lies in serving the complex logistics and shipping requirements of other businesses.

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Boeing (BA)

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Carol Tomé, Chief Executive Officer

Carol Tomé has served as the Chief Executive Officer of UPS since June 2020, making her the first female CEO and the first external hire for the role in the company's history, although she had been a member of the Board since 2003. Before joining UPS, Ms. Tomé spent nearly two decades as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of The Home Depot, from 1995 to 2019. During her tenure at The Home Depot, she was instrumental in guiding the company through the financial recession and housing crisis, doubling sales to over $108 billion, and achieving a 450% increase in shareholder value. Her early career included roles as a commercial lender at United Bank of Denver (now Wells Fargo) and leadership positions at Johns-Manville Corporation and Riverwood International Corporation.

Brian Dykes, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Brian Dykes was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of UPS in July 2024. He is a veteran of UPS with 25 years of service, having held various senior roles within the company's finance and accounting, corporate treasury, mergers and acquisitions, business intelligence, and business development functions, both in the United States and internationally. Prior to his current role, he served as Senior Vice President, Global Finance and Planning since April 2023.

Nando Cesarone, Executive Vice President and President U.S.

Nando Cesarone serves as the Executive Vice President and President U.S. for UPS, where he is responsible for overseeing the company's U.S. small package, transportation, and airline operations. He began his career at UPS in 1990 as a preloader, benefiting from the company's tuition reimbursement program, and later became a package car driver. His extensive international experience with UPS includes serving as President of UPS International, President of UPS Europe, and President of the Asia Pacific Region, where he led expansion efforts in emerging markets and China.

Kate Gutmann, Executive Vice President & President International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions

Kate Gutmann holds the position of Executive Vice President & President International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions at UPS. She is responsible for global sales, solutions, and customer engagement strategies, and also oversees the UPS Capital and The UPS Store business units worldwide. Ms. Gutmann started her career with UPS in 1989 as a marketing intern while studying at Siena College. She has progressed through numerous sales and marketing roles with increasing responsibility, including President of Worldwide Sales and Vice President of Marketing for the UPS Europe, Middle East, and Africa Region.

Bala Subramanian, Executive Vice President & Chief Digital and Technology Officer

Bala Subramanian is the Executive Vice President & Chief Digital and Technology Officer at UPS. He joined the company in 2020, bringing significant expertise in digital transformation, technology innovation, and strategic leadership. His career prior to UPS included various leadership roles with several major corporations.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The key risks to United Parcel Service (UPS) include intense competition and shifts in the e-commerce landscape, labor costs and union relations, and fuel price volatility and rising operating expenses.

Competitive Landscape and E-commerce Shifts

UPS operates in a highly competitive industry with established rivals such as FedEx, DHL Express, and national postal services. A significant and evolving threat comes from Amazon Logistics, which has been rapidly expanding its sorting and distribution capabilities and handling a growing portion of its own package deliveries, with the potential to offer third-party services in the future. This intense competition necessitates continuous investment in network efficiency, technological innovation, and service diversification to maintain market share. In response to these shifts, UPS has been strategically reducing its reliance on Amazon's package volume and pivoting towards higher-margin segments like small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) and healthcare logistics.

Labor Costs and Union Relations

UPS has a large, unionized workforce, primarily represented by the Teamsters. Labor costs are a significant challenge, with recent collective bargaining agreements leading to substantial increases in expenses. The company has faced and continues to navigate potential labor disputes, including strike threats, which can lead to operational disruptions and increased costs. Efforts by UPS to reduce its workforce through voluntary buyout plans, aimed at improving profitability and aligning staffing with reduced package volumes (particularly from Amazon), have also created tension and disputes with the union, which views these actions as potential violations of existing contracts.

Fuel Price Volatility and Operating Expenses

As a transportation and logistics company operating a large fleet of vehicles and aircraft, UPS is highly sensitive to fluctuations in fuel prices. While UPS implements fuel surcharges to offset these costs, significant or sustained increases in diesel and jet fuel prices directly impact operating expenses. These increased costs can put pressure on profitability and may necessitate passing on higher shipping costs to customers, potentially affecting demand for UPS's services. Beyond fuel, rising operating expenses generally, including compensation and benefits, also contribute to financial pressures.

AI Analysis | Feedback

The clear emerging threat for United Parcel Service (UPS) is the continued and extensive expansion of major e-commerce retailers, particularly Amazon, into developing and operating their own in-house logistics and delivery networks. Amazon, a significant former customer of UPS, has heavily invested in its own fleet of aircraft, trucks, vans, and last-mile delivery services, effectively internalizing a substantial volume of packages that were previously handled by traditional carriers like UPS. This trend represents a direct competitive challenge, as a major source of parcel volume is diverted to an internal network, significantly altering the competitive landscape and putting pressure on UPS's package delivery segments by removing a large customer and establishing a formidable new competitor.

AI Analysis | Feedback

United Parcel Service (UPS) operates in several large addressable markets for its main products and services:

  • Global Courier, Express, and Parcel (CEP) Market: This market, which includes both domestic and international package delivery, was valued at approximately USD 956.19 billion in 2025. It is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated USD 2,976.01 billion by 2033.
  • U.S. Domestic Parcel Market: For its U.S. domestic package delivery services, the market generated USD 196 billion in revenue in 2025.
  • Global Freight Forwarding Market: The global freight forwarding market, encompassing international air and ocean freight forwarding, was valued at USD 230.68 billion in 2025. This market is projected to grow to approximately USD 365.15 billion by 2035.
  • Global Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Market: This broad market, covering services such as international air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, distribution and post-sales, and truckload brokerage, was valued at USD 1.6 trillion in 2025. The 3PL market is expected to expand to USD 4.3 trillion by 2035.
  • Global Healthcare Third-Party Logistics Market: For its specialized supply chain solutions to the healthcare and life sciences industry, the global healthcare third-party logistics market was estimated at USD 261.39 billion in 2024. This specific segment is projected to grow to USD 406.36 billion by 2030.

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United Parcel Service (UPS) is strategically positioning itself for future revenue growth over the next 2-3 years by focusing on several key drivers:

  1. Expansion in Higher-Margin Markets: UPS is prioritizing growth in premium segments such as healthcare logistics and small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs/SMEs). This involves reducing lower-margin volume, for instance, by significantly decreasing its shipments for a major customer like Amazon, to concentrate on more profitable package types. The company aims to become the world's leading provider of complex healthcare logistics and has demonstrated strong growth in this area, targeting $20 billion in healthcare revenue by 2026.
  2. Network Optimization and Automation: Under its "Network of the Future" initiative, UPS is investing heavily in optimizing and automating its core integrated network. This strategy is designed to lower the cost to serve, enhance efficiency, and support anticipated volume growth. Plans include more than tripling the number of automated buildings in its network by the end of 2028, largely through implementing automation projects in existing facilities, and reconfiguring its U.S. network to yield substantial savings.
  3. Improved Revenue Quality and Strategic Pricing: UPS is focused on driving higher revenue per piece by implementing average rate increases across its ground, air, and international services. This emphasis on "revenue quality" is a core part of its strategy, which includes adjusting customer volume to focus on more profitable package types and insourcing services like SurePost to improve efficiency and control over final-mile delivery.
  4. International Market Expansion: The company continues to target growth in high-growth international markets. This involves efficiently connecting domestic and export customers to its global network, leveraging its established presence in over 200 countries and territories.

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Share Repurchases

  • In January 2023, UPS approved a new share repurchase authorization for $5.0 billion of Class A and Class B common stock, replacing a previous 2021 authorization.
  • UPS repurchased $2.2 billion in shares in 2023, $500 million in 2024, and $1 billion in 2025.
  • As of December 31, 2024, $2.3 billion remained available under the 2023 share repurchase authorization.

Outbound Investments

  • UPS acquired Frigo-Trans in January 2025 and Andlauer Healthcare Group (AHG) in November 2025, with recent strategic mergers and acquisitions focusing on healthcare logistics.
  • The company sold Coyote in the third quarter of 2024.

Capital Expenditures

  • Capital expenditures were $4.194 billion in 2021, $4.769 billion in 2022, $5.158 billion in 2023, $3.909 billion in 2024, and $3.685 billion in 2025.
  • Expected capital expenditures for 2026 are approximately $3.0 billion, marking a 10-year low.
  • The primary focus of capital expenditures includes network reconfiguration, automation investments, and capacity rightsizing, emphasizing a leaner, more productive network.

Better Bets vs. United Parcel Service (UPS)

Peer Outperformance in Air Freight & Logistics

UPS has outperformed 64% of its 11 Air Freight & Logistics peers over 5Y. Among the peers that beat it are FDX and CHRW. Air Freight & Logistics ranks 20th of 23 industries in Industrials by median 5Y return. The sector’s gains have largely come from elsewhere.
Share of Air Freight & Logistics constituents that UPS has outperformed, by holding period. Peers without a full price history over a given window are excluded from that window.
1Y
75%
of 16 industry peers · 30.6% return
3Y
50%
of 12 industry peers · -5.0% return
5Y
64%
of 11 industry peers · -30.7% return
Air Freight & Logistics peers with revenue growth within 4pp of UPS's that beat it on at least 2 of 3 windows, and by at least 20pp over 5Y. Growth is matched by construction, so the gap is largely a re-rating gap. The multiple column is the context for it.
Ticker Name Rev Growth 3Y Avg P/E 1Y3Y5Y 5Y Gap
UPS United Parcel Service -0.6% 22.0x 30.6%-5.0%-30.7% —
FDX FedEx 2.5% 19.9x 66.1%76.7%85.5% +116pp
CHRW C.H. Robinson Worldwide -0.1% 23.5x -11.1%75.3%56.9% +88pp
Price returns, excluding dividends. P/E shown for context only and not used for matching.
Median price return by industry across the Industrials sector, ranked by 5Y. Air Freight & Logistics is UPS's own industry. Use this to see which corners of the sector have carried the returns.
Industry Names 1Y med3Y med5Y med Top 3 by 5Y
Construction & Engineering 29 -12.8%78.4%144.7% FIX 1084% · STRL 944% · AGX 620%
Marine Transportation 5 28.7%38.5%123.2% MATX 149% · KEX 123%
Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment 13 12.2%58.9%107.9% ALSN 278% · WAB 230% · CAT 216%
Aerospace & Defense 54 -7.4%61.7%59.6% ATI 980% · FTAI 885% · HWM 598%
Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components 71 6.3%50.5%38.7% CRS 887% · MLI 333% · SYM 274%
Trading Companies & Distributors 19 17.2%41.9%38.4% DXPE 356% · AIT 215% · URI 202%
Rail Transportation 7 37.9%59.1%33.8% CSX 57% · UNP 46% · NSC 34%
Diversified Support Services 33 21.0%37.1%28.3% CXW 235% · OPLN 162% · CACI 120%
Building Products 34 -3.2%12.5%21.7% MOD 793% · GFF 380% · TT 142%
Cargo Ground Transportation 16 33.7%17.8%7.7% XPO 276% · R 265% · ARCB 26%
Office Services & Supplies 10 29.7%26.2%3.1% TILE 170% · PBI 166% · HNI 48%
Industrial Conglomerates 17 23.0%-3.6%1.0% CSW 125% · CSL 83% · DD 74%
Electrical Components & Equipment 39 -5.2%68.2%-2.8% POWL 1633% · VRT 667% · BE 564%
Data Processing & Outsourced Services 6 -14.9%3.1%-12.6% EXLS 60% · BR 21% · MMS -12%
Security & Alarm Services 9 -49.8%13.7%-19.8% BCO 70%
Research & Consulting Services 13 4.9%-16.9%-20.8% HURN 224% · FCN 35% · BAH 11%
Agricultural & Farm Machinery 16 17.3%-6.1%-21.8% BLBD 184% · DE 106% · TTC 19%
Environmental & Facilities Services 29 -29.1%25.0%-25.8% GEO 210% · CLH 173% · RSG 96%
Passenger Airlines 11 10.5%55.1%-28.2% LTM 3048% · UAL 136% · DAL 126%
Air Freight & Logistics ← 12 -23.0%-5.0%-37.3% FDX 86% · EXPD 60% · CHRW 57%
Human Resource & Employment Services 22 21.6%-6.2%-42.7% ADP 50% · FA 22% · PAYX 13%
Passenger Ground Transportation 3 -13.2%46.3%-53.7% UBER 54% · CAR -54% · LYFT -62%
Airport Services 4 -48.6%-62.5%-86.1% JOBY -48%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are limited to companies above $2B market cap.

Latest Trefis Analyses

Recent Active Movers

Peer Comparisons

Peers to compare with:

Financials

UPSFDXODFLCHRWEXPDJBHTMedian
NameUnited P.FedEx Old Domi.C.H. Rob.Expedito.JB Hunt . 
Mkt Price114.00329.00179.33132.35197.69226.98188.51
Mkt Cap97.077.637.115.625.721.331.4
Rev LTM91,36895,3315,78718,21813,24913,32515,771
Op Inc LTM6,5166,3921,5408851,3419601,440
FCF LTM6,351-1,174468928966966
FCF 3Y Avg5,035-1,028496814731814
CFO LTM9,288-1,4265349841,4941,426
CFO 3Y Avg8,990-1,5275678631,4951,495

Growth & Margins

UPSFDXODFLCHRWEXPDJBHTMedian
NameUnited P.FedEx Old Domi.C.H. Rob.Expedito.JB Hunt . 
Rev Chg LTM2.1%7.6%3.8%10.4%18.6%10.6%9.0%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg-0.6%2.5%-0.3%-0.1%8.7%0.6%0.3%
Rev Chg Q6.7%2.7%13.1%29.5%41.9%20.4%16.8%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM1.6%0.6%3.3%7.2%10.1%4.9%4.1%
Op Inc Chg LTM-20.7%4.4%10.7%10.9%21.6%16.3%10.8%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg-12.3%3.9%-1.7%16.4%8.9%-2.2%1.1%
Op Mgn LTM7.1%6.7%26.6%4.9%10.1%7.2%7.2%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg8.4%6.8%26.4%4.3%9.8%6.9%7.7%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM-0.2%-0.3%0.8%-0.0%0.3%-0.3%-0.1%
CFO/Rev LTM10.2%-24.6%2.9%7.4%11.2%10.2%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg9.9%-26.5%3.3%7.5%12.0%9.9%
FCF/Rev LTM7.0%-20.3%2.6%7.0%7.3%7.0%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg5.6%-17.8%2.9%7.1%5.8%5.8%

Valuation

UPSFDXODFLCHRWEXPDJBHTMedian
NameUnited P.FedEx Old Domi.C.H. Rob.Expedito.JB Hunt . 
Mkt Cap97.077.637.115.625.721.331.4
P/S1.10.86.40.91.91.61.3
P/Op Inc14.912.124.117.619.222.218.4
P/EBIT14.011.924.017.619.222.118.4
P/E21.919.932.023.324.731.524.0
P/CFO10.4-26.029.126.114.226.0
Total Yield10.1%6.3%3.8%6.2%4.9%4.0%5.5%
Dividend Yield5.6%1.3%0.6%1.9%0.8%0.8%1.1%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg6.0%-2.9%3.1%4.2%4.4%4.2%
D/E0.30.40.00.10.00.10.1
Net D/E0.20.3-0.00.1-0.00.10.1

Returns

UPSFDXODFLCHRWEXPDJBHTMedian
NameUnited P.FedEx Old Domi.C.H. Rob.Expedito.JB Hunt . 
1M Rtn22.4%13.8%-0.0%-5.9%1.8%-1.2%0.9%
3M Rtn7.5%6.3%-16.6%-13.5%9.0%-16.6%-3.6%
6M Rtn17.9%9.8%-10.4%-20.9%31.4%-7.4%1.2%
12M Rtn30.3%65.9%27.6%-12.1%47.2%32.6%31.4%
3Y Rtn-5.3%76.5%-7.0%73.3%81.3%33.0%53.2%
1M Excs Rtn25.6%17.0%3.9%1.2%6.3%3.7%5.1%
3M Excs Rtn14.1%6.4%-13.2%-7.6%12.5%-13.1%-0.6%
6M Excs Rtn15.1%7.0%-13.1%-23.6%28.6%-10.2%-1.6%
12M Excs Rtn18.7%54.7%20.8%-22.0%52.7%24.3%22.6%
3Y Excs Rtn-83.9%2.7%-85.3%-5.1%6.2%-43.9%-24.5%

Financials

Segment Financials

Revenue by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
United States (U.S.) Domestic Package59,51960,37660,205 60,317
International Package18,57617,96017,831 19,541
Other revenues10,56612,73412,922  
Single Segment   100,338 
Supply Chain Solutions    17,429
Total88,66191,07090,958100,33897,287


Operating Income by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
United States (U.S.) Domestic Package3,9264,3455,1566,9976,436
International Package2,8733,1913,2314,3264,646
Other profit/(loss)1,068932754  
Supply Chain Solutions   1,7711,728
Total7,8678,4689,14113,09412,810


Assets by Segment
$ Mil20252024202320222021
United States (U.S.) Domestic Package38,35938,65738,36838,30335,746
International Package18,21418,30017,58717,67017,225
Other assets12,6939,850   
Unallocated assets3,8243,2633,6574,7446,878
Supply Chain Solutions  11,24510,4079,556
Total73,09070,07070,85771,12469,405


Price Behavior

Price Behavior
Market Price$114.31 
Market Cap ($ Bil)97.3 
First Trading Date11/10/1999 
Distance from 52W High-1.3% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$99.67$102.61
DMA Trenddownindeterminate
Distance from DMA14.7%11.4%
 3M1YR
Volatility25.7%29.5%
Downside Capture30.1063.29
Upside Capture81.2581.16
Correlation (S&P 500)2.8%28.8%
UPS Betas & Captures as of 10/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta-0.11-0.060.370.710.670.72
Up Beta-1.69-2.66-0.380.610.640.76
Down Beta-0.52-1.06-1.200.240.560.57
Up Capture150%77%107%87%72%36%
Bmk +ve Days12182862130427
Stock +ve Days13223266135388
Down Capture-93%41%83%93%73%97%
Bmk -ve Days10253664121325
Stock -ve Days9213260116359

[1] Upside and downside betas calculated using positive and negative benchmark daily returns respectively
Based On 1-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with UPS
UPS29.6%29.5%0.87-
Sector ETF (XLI)10.8%17.4%0.4241.5%
Equity (SPY)13.2%12.9%0.6830.5%
Gold (GLD)1.0%28.8%0.0319.2%
Commodities (DBC)35.9%21.2%1.34-20.9%
Real Estate (VNQ)14.3%14.1%0.7032.7%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-28.2%43.4%-0.65-1.5%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 5-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with UPS
UPS-7.2%28.9%-0.25-
Sector ETF (XLI)12.1%17.6%0.5154.7%
Equity (SPY)12.5%17.2%0.5549.9%
Gold (GLD)17.3%19.1%0.736.7%
Commodities (DBC)8.0%19.6%0.296.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)1.8%18.9%-0.0144.8%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)5.5%51.5%0.2913.3%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How
Based On 10-Year Data
Annualized
Return
Annualized
Volatility
Sharpe
Ratio
Correlation
with UPS
UPS4.7%28.1%0.20-
Sector ETF (XLI)13.4%20.1%0.5856.5%
Equity (SPY)15.4%18.0%0.7354.5%
Gold (GLD)11.9%16.5%0.592.6%
Commodities (DBC)7.4%18.1%0.3313.1%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.7%20.7%0.2343.6%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)61.0%66.2%1.017.0%

Smart multi-asset allocation framework can stack odds in your favor. Learn How

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date10152026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity26.2 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 9302026-7.5%
Average Daily Volume4.6 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest5.7 days
Basic Shares Quantity851.0 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares3.1%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 11/5/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
10/27/20265.8%9.4% 
7/28/2026-6.6%-5.4%-5.4%
4/28/2026-4.0%-11.0%-1.9%
1/27/20260.2%3.1%7.9%
10/28/20258.0%5.5%7.8%
7/29/2025-10.6%-16.3%-12.3%
4/29/2025-0.4%-1.6%1.3%
1/30/2025-14.1%-16.4%-9.8%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive101213
# Negative141210
Median Positive5.5%4.3%4.7%
Median Negative-6.3%-7.8%-8.6%
Max Positive14.1%20.7%20.9%
Max Negative-14.1%-16.4%-12.5%
Collapse to Preview
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
10/27/20265.8%9.4% 
7/28/2026-6.6%-5.4%-5.4%
4/28/2026-4.0%-11.0%-1.9%
1/27/20260.2%3.1%7.9%
10/28/20258.0%5.5%7.8%
7/29/2025-10.6%-16.3%-12.3%
4/29/2025-0.4%-1.6%1.3%
1/30/2025-14.1%-16.4%-9.8%
10/24/20245.3%1.8%1.2%
7/23/2024-12.1%-11.4%-10.1%
4/23/20242.4%2.2%1.2%
1/30/2024-8.2%-12.0%-5.4%
10/26/2023-5.9%-4.9%4.7%
8/8/2023-0.9%-2.8%-10.1%
4/25/2023-10.0%-7.0%-12.5%
1/31/20234.7%6.7%4.4%
10/25/2022-0.3%0.1%11.1%
7/26/2022-3.4%4.0%10.1%
4/26/2022-3.5%-5.8%-7.4%
2/1/202214.1%11.3%5.3%
10/26/20216.9%3.4%4.4%
7/27/2021-7.0%-8.5%-7.4%
4/27/202110.4%20.7%20.9%
2/2/20212.6%4.6%3.3%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive101213
# Negative141210
Median Positive5.5%4.3%4.7%
Median Negative-6.3%-7.8%-8.6%
Max Positive14.1%20.7%20.9%
Max Negative-14.1%-16.4%-12.5%

SEC Filings

Expand for More
Report DateFiling DateFiling
09/30/202611/04/202610-Q
06/30/202608/05/202610-Q
03/31/202605/06/202610-Q
12/31/202502/17/202610-K
09/30/202511/05/202510-Q
06/30/202508/06/202510-Q
03/31/202505/07/202510-Q
12/31/202402/18/202510-K
09/30/202411/06/202410-Q
06/30/202408/07/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/20/202410-K
09/30/202311/01/202310-Q
06/30/202308/08/202310-Q
03/31/202305/03/202310-Q
12/31/202202/21/202310-K
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
09/30/202611/04/202610-Q
06/30/202608/05/202610-Q
03/31/202605/06/202610-Q
12/31/202502/17/202610-K
09/30/202511/05/202510-Q
06/30/202508/06/202510-Q
03/31/202505/07/202510-Q
12/31/202402/18/202510-K
09/30/202411/06/202410-Q
06/30/202408/07/202410-Q
03/31/202405/03/202410-Q
12/31/202302/20/202410-K
09/30/202311/01/202310-Q
06/30/202308/08/202310-Q
03/31/202305/03/202310-Q
12/31/202202/21/202310-K
09/30/202211/02/202210-Q
06/30/202208/03/202210-Q
03/31/202205/04/202210-Q
12/31/202102/22/202210-K
09/30/202111/04/202110-Q
06/30/202108/06/202110-Q
03/31/202105/05/202110-Q
12/31/202002/22/202110-K
09/30/202011/02/202010-Q
06/30/202008/04/202010-Q
03/31/202005/08/202010-Q
12/31/201902/20/202010-K

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 10/28/2026

Latest: Q3 2026 Earnings Reported 10/27/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q4 2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating ProfitReported 3.30 Bil    
Q4 2026 RevenueReported 25.70 Bil    
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating ProfitReported 8.75 Bil 1.2% RaisedGuidance: 8.65 Bil for 2026
2026 Dividend PaymentsReported 5.40 Bil 0.0% AffirmedGuidance: 5.40 Bil for 2026
2026 Pension ContributionsReported 1.30 Bil    
2026 Transformation Strategy Program BenefitsReported 3.00 Bil    
2026 Driver Choice Program Excluded CostsReported 1.20 Bil    
2026 Consolidated RevenueReported 92.60 Bil 1.5% RaisedGuidance: 91.20 Bil for 2026
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Expense Excluded CostsReported1.40 Bil1.50 Bil1.60 Bil   
2026 Effective Tax RateReported 23.0%   AffirmedGuidance: 23.0% for 2026
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Diluted EPSReported 7.28 0.8% RaisedGuidance: 7.22 for 2026
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported 3.00 Bil 0.0% AffirmedGuidance: 3.00 Bil for 2026
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Free Cash FlowReported 6.10 Bil    


Prior: Q2 2026 Earnings Reported 7/28/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating ProfitReported 8.65 Bil    
2026 DividendsReported 5.40 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 5.40 Bil for 2026
2026 RevenueReported 91.20 Bil 1.7% RaisedGuidance: 89.70 Bil for 2026
2026 Effective Tax RateReported 23.0%  0AffirmedGuidance: 23.0% for 2026
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Diluted EPSReported 7.22    
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported 3.00 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 3.00 Bil for 2026

Q1 2026 Earnings Reported 4/28/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 DividendsReported 5.40 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 5.40 Bil for 2026
2026 Program Cost SavingsReported 3.00 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 3.00 Bil for 2026
2026 RevenueReported 89.70 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 89.70 Bil for 2026
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating Expense ExclusionsReported1.30 Bil1.40 Bil    
2026 Non-GAAP Adjusted Operating MarginReported 9.6%  0AffirmedGuidance: 9.6% for 2026
2026 Effective Tax RateReported 23.0%    
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported 3.00 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 3.00 Bil for 2026

Q4 2025 Earnings Reported 1/27/2026

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
2026 DividendsReported 5.40 Bil -1.8% Lower NewActual: 5.50 Bil for 2025
2026 Cost SavingsReported 3.00 Bil    
2026 RevenueReported 89.70 Bil    
2026 Operating MarginReported 9.6%    
2026 Capital ExpendituresReported 3.00 Bil -14.3% Lower NewActual: 3.50 Bil for 2025

Insider Activity

Updated 10/30/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Guffey, Matthew WChief US Domestic OfficerDirectSell10302026105.398,318876,62828,534Form
2Brothers, Norman M JRChief Legal & Compliance OffDirectSell1282026106.1525,014  Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Guffey, Matthew WChief US Domestic OfficerDirectSell10302026105.398,318876,62828,534Form
2Brothers, Norman M JRChief Legal & Compliance OffDirectSell1282026106.1525,014  Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Nov 5, 2026
13F holdings as of Mar 31, 2026 (Q1 2026)

Active managers (13F portfolio over $250M, at least 3 holdings) with a position over $5M that is either over 10% of their portfolio or held in a concentrated book of 50 or fewer total positions. Index/ETF, sovereign, bank, community-bank and charitable/donor-advised filers are excluded.

Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Cove Private Wealth, LLC$66.0 Mil15.0%185New13F
Drexel Morgan & Co.$79.9 Mil11.7%60ADD +14.0%13F
Masters Capital Management LLC$49.2 Mil7.3%44ADD +66.7%13F
Lone Peak Global Investors LLC$26.1 Mil4.4%42ADD +52.2%13F
Powszechne Towarzystwo Emerytalne Allianz Polska S.A.$8.3 Mil3.1%10Hold13F
Sound Shore Management Inc /CT/$71.6 Mil2.4%40New13F
Hi-Line Capital Management, LLC$6.6 Mil2.1%32Hold13F
Fluent Financial, LLC$5.6 Mil2.0%43TRIM -19.9%13F
Lodge Hill Capital, LLC$10.3 Mil2.0%22New13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Sound Shore Management Inc /CT/$71.6 Mil2.4%40New13F
Cove Private Wealth, LLC$66.0 Mil15.0%185New13F
Lodge Hill Capital, LLC$10.3 Mil2.0%22New13F
Masters Capital Management LLC$49.2 Mil7.3%44ADD +66.7%13F
Lone Peak Global Investors LLC$26.1 Mil4.4%42ADD +52.2%13F
Drexel Morgan & Co.$79.9 Mil11.7%60ADD +14.0%13F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQAs OfFiling
Fidelity National Financial, Inc.$21.8 Mil0.7%22ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Compass Rose Asset Management, LP$10.3 Mil3.3%17ExitedDec 31, 202513F
Fluent Financial, LLC$5.6 Mil2.0%43TRIM -19.9%Mar 31, 202613F
Active ManagerValue% of PortfolioTotal PositionsQoQFiling
Drexel Morgan & Co.$79.9 Mil11.7%60ADD +14.0%13F
Sound Shore Management Inc /CT/$71.6 Mil2.4%40New13F
Cove Private Wealth, LLC$66.0 Mil15.0%185New13F
Masters Capital Management LLC$49.2 Mil7.3%44ADD +66.7%13F
Lone Peak Global Investors LLC$26.1 Mil4.4%42ADD +52.2%13F
Lodge Hill Capital, LLC$10.3 Mil2.0%22New13F
Powszechne Towarzystwo Emerytalne Allianz Polska S.A.$8.3 Mil3.1%10Hold13F
Hi-Line Capital Management, LLC$6.6 Mil2.1%32Hold13F
Fluent Financial, LLC$5.6 Mil2.0%43TRIM -19.9%13F

UPS Trade Sentinel


Stock Conviction

Constructive

CONVICTION RATIONALE

UPS is successfully executing a strategic pivot to higher-quality revenue. For the second straight quarter, U.S. pricing growth outpaced cost growth, expanding margins. With management raising full-year guidance for revenue and profit, the "Better, not Bigger" strategy is inflecting positively. The primary risk is faltering execution in this complex transition.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Logistics Network

Revenue = Average Daily Volume x Revenue Per Piece x Operating Days The spread between Revenue Per Piece (RPP) growth and Cost Per Piece (CPP) growth, which drives operating margin expansion.

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Can the "Better, not Bigger" strategy drive sustained margin expansion?

Evidence suggests yes. The company is past the inflection point of its strategic volume reduction, with core domestic margins expanding and full-year profit guidance raised.

Mechanism: By shedding low-margin volume and focusing on premium SMB and healthcare customers, revenue per piece is growing faster than costs. This drove 60 basis points of U.S. operating margin expansion in Q3. Continued execution should drive operating profit toward its prior peak.
Supporting Evidence:
  • U.S. Domestic operating margin expanded 60 basis points YoY in Q3 2026.
  • Full-year 2026 operating profit guidance was raised to ~$8.75 billion.
  • SMBs now represent 35.1% of U.S. volume, up 240 basis points YoY.
  • U.S. revenue per piece grew 6.1% in Q3, outpacing cost growth.
PRIMARY RISK
Execution stumbles in a competitive market.

The pivot to premium segments carries risk, evidenced by a $182 million goodwill impairment in healthcare logistics.

Mechanism: A failure to meet Q4 U.S. Domestic operating margin guidance of ~10.5% would signal the margin story is breaking.
Supporting Evidence:
  • A $182 million goodwill impairment was recorded in Q3 2026.
  • U.S. Domestic average daily volume declined 3.3% in Q3 2026.
  • Trailing-twelve-month operating margin is 7.1%, down from 9.2% a year ago.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
U.S. Domestic Average Daily Volume (ADV)In Q3 2026, package volume declined 3.3% year-over-year. - Turning aroundThe negative volume trend is a deliberate part of the company's strategy to reduce lower-margin volume from its largest customer, Amazon. Management noted that excluding this intentional reduction, volume from core Small and Medium-sized Business (SMB) and enterprise customers grew 1.8% year-over-year in Q3 2026.
U.S. Domestic Revenue Per Piece (RPP)$14.29 in Q3 2026, an increase of 6.1% year-over-year - DeceleratingManagement stated that about half of the Q3 growth came from base rates and customer mix, with the rest from higher fuel surcharges.
Average Daily Package Volume (U.S. Domestic)15,621 (in thousands) (Q3 2026)Measures the volume of packages flowing through the domestic network, indicating demand and network utilization. Recent declines reflect the deliberate reduction of lower-margin volume.
SMB Penetration (U.S. Volume)35.1% (Q3 2026)Measures the percentage of total U.S. volume from small- and medium-sized businesses, a key indicator of the company's strategic shift toward higher-yielding customer segments.
Core Investment Debate

Profitable Shrink vs. Competitive Share Loss

BULL VIEW

The intentional 3.3% U.S. volume decline is a "good shrink" that enabled a 6.1% rise in revenue per piece and margin expansion. This proves the strategy to prioritize profitability over raw volume is working as planned.

CORE TENSION

Can rising SMB penetration (now 35.1% of U.S. volume) and pricing power offset the deliberate reduction of high-volume, low-margin business?


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
CAUTIOUSLY BULLISH

The latest evidence favors the bulls. Management raised full-year 2026 guidance for both revenue and profit, signaling confidence that the positive mix shift is creating durable value.

BEAR VIEW

Ceding volume to competitors like FedEx, whose U.S. volume grew, is risky. The recent $182 million impairment shows the pivot to "premium" segments is not without significant execution challenges that could limit future growth.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
November 1, 2026
Airline Mechanics Contract Amendable
Watch: The collective bargaining agreement with approximately 2,000 airline mechanics represented by Teamsters Local 2727 becomes amendable.
12/16/2026
Peer Competitive Pressure
Watch: FedEx commentary on share gains in B2B, healthcare, and SMBs, and margin performance in its Express segment.
by the end of the year
Network Automation Target
Watch: Company expects to increase the percentage of U.S. volume processed through automated facilities to 68%.
1/13/2027
JB Hunt Earnings Report
Watch: Peer JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) is scheduled to report earnings.
1/25/2027
Holiday Peak Season Execution
Watch: Q4 U.S. Domestic operating margin versus guidance, and commentary on volume and revenue quality during the peak season.
1/25/2027
International Recovery Stalls
Watch: Q4 International segment revenue and operating margin versus guidance. Commentary on Asia and Europe trade lane volumes.
1/26/2027
C.H. Robinson Earnings Report
Watch: Peer C.H. Robinson Worldwide (CHRW) is scheduled to report earnings.
WITHIN_SIX_MONTHS
Airline Mechanic Labor Negotiations
Watch: News on negotiation progress, potential cost impacts, or threats of labor action that could disrupt the air network.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-10-27
Q3 Earnings Beat and Guidance Raise
Details: UPS reported Q3 non-GAAP adjusted diluted EPS of $1.69, beating expectations. The company raised its 2026 guidance for consolidated revenue and non-GAAP adjusted diluted EPS.
+5.3%
$100.32 -> $105.62
2026-09-21
Analyst Price Target Cut
Details: An analyst note reiterated a 'Neutral' rating and cut its price target to $108 from $115, citing weaker domestic package volumes and lower earnings expectations.
-3.2%
$99.06 -> $95.87
2026-08-31
New Global Operating Model
Details: The company announced executive leadership changes and a new global operating model effective September 1, 2026, following the retirement of a key executive.
-2.5%
$105.33 -> $102.66
2026-07-28
Q2 Earnings and Guidance Raise
Details: UPS reported Q2 non-GAAP adjusted diluted EPS of $1.76 and raised its full-year 2026 guidance. The stock reacted negatively, falling -7.0% over two days.
-7.4%
$111.18 -> $102.92
2026-06-22
Healthcare Logistics Investment
Details: UPS announced a $48 million investment in 27 temperature-controlled freight cross-dock facilities to extend its lead in complex healthcare logistics.
+0.9%
$103.21 -> $104.17
2026-05-06
Quarterly Dividend Announced
Details: The company announced its regular quarterly dividend of $1.64 per share on all outstanding Class A and Class B shares, payable June 4, 2026.
+2.1%
$94.93 -> $96.90
Risk Management
Position Sizing

4% - 6%

NORMAL POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: UPS trades at roughly 26% annualized realized (three-month) volatility versus about 10% for the S&P 500 (2.6x the market). A 4% - 6% position keeps a single-name swing of that size within a diversified portfolio's risk budget.

Diversification Alternatives
FDX - FedEx
Direct Competitor

FedEx offers exposure to a different operational strategy focused on volume growth and a higher gross margin structure. The company is executing its own network transformation.

Core Thesis: A bet on a more traditional growth model in logistics and a successful internal network integration.
JBHT - JB Hunt Transport Services
Differentiated Logistics Play

JB Hunt provides exposure to different logistics segments like intermodal and dedicated contract services, which have different cyclical and competitive dynamics than small package delivery.

Core Thesis: A play on North American freight demand and integrated, multi-modal transportation solutions.
How Is The Market Pricing UPS?

UPS is a logistics giant undergoing a deliberate transformation, sacrificing low-margin scale for higher-quality, more profitable revenue streams in premium B2B, SMB, and healthcare markets.

The company is in the final stages of a major strategic pivot, having intentionally reduced volume from its largest customer, Amazon, to reconfigure its network for greater efficiency and higher returns. This "Better, not Bigger" strategy is now showing results, with the core U.S. Domestic business demonstrating operating margin expansion. The focus is now on capturing growth in premium segments by leveraging its reliable global network and specialized capabilities.

What will confirm the thesis

Continued year-over-year operating margin expansion in the U.S. Domestic segment, sustained growth in SMB and healthcare volumes, and a positive spread between revenue per piece growth and cost per piece growth.

What will damage the thesis

Failure to achieve targeted cost savings from network reconfiguration, market share losses in premium segments to competitors, or a significant macroeconomic downturn that disproportionately impacts B2B and SMB demand.

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Short-term fluctuations in total average daily volume, which are expected due to the strategic reduction of low-margin business. News about a competitor's general e-commerce volume growth.

Repricing Catalyst

The successful completion of the Amazon volume "glide down" and network reconfiguration, leading to a return to consolidated revenue and operating profit growth, as reflected in the company's raised full-year 2026 guidance.

What UPS Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on the twelve months through fiscal Q2 2026
U.S. Domestic Package
$60.0B TTM (67% of Total) · 4% Margin
What It Is

This segment provides time-definite delivery of letters, documents, and packages throughout the United States, offering a full spectrum of air (Next Day Air, Deferred) and ground transportation services to both business and residential customers.

Who Pays & How

Businesses (B2B, SMBs) and consumers pay for domestic package delivery. They choose this segment for its industry-leading service reliability, particularly during peak seasons, and its comprehensive, integrated air and ground network serving nearly all U.S. zip codes.

Transactional pricing based on service level (e.g., Next Day Air, Ground), package characteristics, and distance. Contracts include fuel surcharges that are adjusted weekly.
Competition
The company competes with many local, regional, national, and international logistics providers, as well as national postal services like the USPS.
The segment's moat is its integrated global air and ground network, brand equity signifying service quality and reliability, and sophisticated technology like its RFID-enabled Smart Package Smart Facility initiative.
International Package
$19.3B TTM (21% of Total) · 14% Margin
What It Is

This segment consists of small package operations in Europe, Asia, Canada, and Latin America. It offers a wide selection of guaranteed day- and time-definite international transportation services, supported by customs brokerage capabilities for cross-border shipments.

Who Pays & How

Businesses and consumers requiring international shipping pay for these services. They choose UPS for its significant presence in all major economies, serving over 200 countries and territories, which enables effective and efficient global operations.

Transactional pricing for a selection of guaranteed day- and time-definite international services, with fuel surcharges applied.
Competition
The company competes with many local, regional, national, and international logistics providers, as well as national postal services.
The segment's competitive strength lies in its extensive global network with international air hubs in Germany, China, and Hong Kong, which enables cost-effective package processing and efficient global service.
UPS Evolution: Price Return by Era
· Pre-Transformation (through ~2024)
The company's network handled massive volumes, including a significant and growing portion from its largest customer, Amazon. This period saw high revenue but also increasing pressure on margins and network efficiency.
2025-2026 · Strategic Pivot & Network Reconfiguration (2025-2026)
-1%
Management initiated a deliberate strategy to reduce lower-quality volume from its largest customer by more than 50% from 2024 levels. This involved closing facilities and reconfiguring the network to align with a smaller, more profitable volume base, under the mantra "Better, not Bigger."
· Premium Growth Focus (Present)
With the network reconfiguration largely complete, the company is now focused on capturing premium volume from SMB, B2B, and healthcare customers. This phase is characterized by a focus on revenue quality, margin expansion, and leveraging differentiated capabilities like cold-chain logistics and RFID technology.
Market Appears To Be Aligned With Core Thesis
Price structure is neutral. The price is in a holding pattern with no clear directional commitment from the moving average stack. Relative to SPY: Decisively outperforming and improving. Potential evidence of active institutional rotation. Volume and momentum are strongly confirming. The institutional accumulation is evident and momentum is accelerating. Earnings history is strongly validating. The market rewarded the print and institutional follow-through confirms thesis re-rating is underway.
① Structure
0
Structural pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by trend regime, SMA cross events, proximity to 52W high, and relative strength vs SPY.
② Volume / Momentum
+4
Volume/Momentum pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by institutional footprint score, OBV divergence, and momentum character.
③ Catalyst
+3
Catalyst pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by earnings day reaction, 20D post-earnings drift, and post-earnings volume character.
Combined Score
7 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Potential Bottoming · Death Cross ▾
2 Momentum Accelerating ▾
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Strong Outperformance ▾
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Mild Accumulation ▾
5 Volatility Normal ▾
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Falling ▾
7 Earnings Reaction History Inconsistent ▾
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars ▾
Core Cache Last Updated: 11/4/2026