United Parcel Service (UPS)


Market Price (9/16/2026): $101.52 | Market Cap: $86.4 BilInvestor Relations Sector: Industrials | Industry: Air Freight & Logistics

United Parcel Service (UPS)


Market Price (9/16/2026): $101.52
Market Cap: $86.4 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 11%, Dividend Yield is 6.2%, ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is 7.3%, FCF Yield is 6.3%

Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 2.3 Bil

Attractive cash flow generation
CFO LTM is 8.9 Bil, FCF LTM is 5.5 Bil

Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 29%

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

Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -49%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -95%

Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -2.2%

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 11%, Dividend Yield is 6.2%, ERPEquity Risk Premium (ERP) = Total Yield - Risk Free Rate, Reflects the premium above risk free assets offered by the investment. is 7.3%, FCF Yield is 6.3%
1 Stock buyback support
Stock Buyback 3Y Total is 2.3 Bil
2 Attractive cash flow generation
CFO LTM is 8.9 Bil, FCF LTM is 5.5 Bil
3 Low stock price volatility
Vol 12M is 29%
4 Megatrend and thematic drivers
Megatrends include E-commerce & Digital Retail, E-commerce & DTC Adoption, Automation & Robotics, and Future of Freight. Show more.
5 Weak multi-year price returns
2Y Excs Rtn is -49%, 3Y Excs Rtn is -95%
6 Weak revenue growth
Rev Chg 3Y AvgRevenue Change % averaged over trailing 3 years is -2.2%
7 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

SPY0.12%
VOO0.12%
IVV0.11%
VTI0.11%
ITOT0.10%
IWB0.11%
RSP0.19%
VTV0.29%
+28 more covered ETFs

Valuation & Metrics

Price Chart

Why The Stock Moved

Qualitative Assessment

AI Analysis | Feedback

Updated on 9/1/2026

United Parcel Service (UPS) stock has lost about 5% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Fiscal Q2 2026 Earnings Beat and Raised Full-Year Guidance Offset by Restructuring Costs.

United Parcel Service reported strong fiscal Q2 2026 results on July 28, 2026, with non-GAAP adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.76, exceeding analyst expectations of $1.65 by 6.67%. Consolidated revenues also surpassed estimates, reaching $22.8 billion, a 7.6% increase year-over-year compared to analyst estimates of $21.86 billion. Furthermore, the company raised its full-year 2026 consolidated revenue outlook to approximately $91.2 billion and its non-GAAP adjusted operating profit target to approximately $8.65 billion, with non-GAAP adjusted diluted EPS guidance rising to approximately $7.22. However, GAAP results included significant after-tax transformation charges of $891 million, or $1.05 per diluted share, primarily related to employee separation costs from the Driver Choice Program, which tempered the positive financial beat.

2. Completion of Amazon Volume Reduction and Network Optimization Initiatives.

A key factor was the successful completion of UPS's Amazon volume "glide-down" and network reconfiguration initiatives in June 2026. This strategic move involved eliminating approximately two million pieces per day of lower-quality Amazon volume and resulted in the removal of roughly $4.5 billion in related expenses. The company also announced a new global operating model, effective September 1, 2026, to accelerate profitable growth and better leverage its worldwide network. These efficiency programs, including Network Reconfiguration and Efficiency Reimagined, are expected to yield approximately $3 billion in benefits for the full year 2026, with $1.2 billion already realized in the first half of fiscal 2026.

Show more
Updated on 9/1/2026

United Parcel Service (UPS) stock has lost about 5% since 5/31/2026 because of the following key factors:

1. Fiscal Q2 2026 Earnings Beat and Raised Full-Year Guidance Offset by Restructuring Costs.

United Parcel Service reported strong fiscal Q2 2026 results on July 28, 2026, with non-GAAP adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) of $1.76, exceeding analyst expectations of $1.65 by 6.67%. Consolidated revenues also surpassed estimates, reaching $22.8 billion, a 7.6% increase year-over-year compared to analyst estimates of $21.86 billion. Furthermore, the company raised its full-year 2026 consolidated revenue outlook to approximately $91.2 billion and its non-GAAP adjusted operating profit target to approximately $8.65 billion, with non-GAAP adjusted diluted EPS guidance rising to approximately $7.22. However, GAAP results included significant after-tax transformation charges of $891 million, or $1.05 per diluted share, primarily related to employee separation costs from the Driver Choice Program, which tempered the positive financial beat.

2. Completion of Amazon Volume Reduction and Network Optimization Initiatives.

A key factor was the successful completion of UPS's Amazon volume "glide-down" and network reconfiguration initiatives in June 2026. This strategic move involved eliminating approximately two million pieces per day of lower-quality Amazon volume and resulted in the removal of roughly $4.5 billion in related expenses. The company also announced a new global operating model, effective September 1, 2026, to accelerate profitable growth and better leverage its worldwide network. These efficiency programs, including Network Reconfiguration and Efficiency Reimagined, are expected to yield approximately $3 billion in benefits for the full year 2026, with $1.2 billion already realized in the first half of fiscal 2026.

3. Mixed Analyst Sentiment Amidst Broader Logistics Market Dynamics.

Despite the positive earnings and strategic operational advancements, analyst sentiment remained cautiously optimistic, with an average consensus rating of "Hold" and a 12-month price target of $117.41 as of August 24, 2026. While some firms raised price targets and maintained "Buy" ratings, Zacks Research cut its fiscal Q3 2026 EPS forecast, although it raised longer-term outlooks for fiscal years 2027 and 2028, indicating near-term caution. The broader logistics market in fiscal Q3 2026 is experiencing tightening capacity due to regulatory actions and a Supreme Court ruling affecting broker liability, leading to upward pressure on rates. Additionally, both UPS and FedEx announced increased holiday shipping surcharges for 2026, with basic residential Ground charges rising 23% to 25%, reflecting both pricing power and the prevailing "volatility as the norm" in the supply chain landscape.

Show less
Holding a concentrated position? Know your true downside before the momentum shifts.
Protect Your Wealth →

Stock Movement Drivers

Fundamental Drivers

The -2.5% change in UPS stock from 5/31/2026 to 9/15/2026 was primarily driven by a -14.5% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)53120269152026Change
Stock Price ($)105.02102.35-2.5%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)88,31789,9301.8%
Net Income Margin (%)5.9%5.1%-14.5%
P/E Multiple17.019.112.1%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)850851-0.1%
Cumulative Contribution-2.5%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

5/31/2026 to 9/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS-2.5% 
Market (SPY)0.1%39.8%
Sector (XLI)-2.5%42.3%

Fundamental Drivers

The -8.8% change in UPS stock from 2/28/2026 to 9/15/2026 was primarily driven by a -19.1% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)22820269152026Change
Stock Price ($)112.25102.35-8.8%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)88,66189,9301.4%
Net Income Margin (%)6.3%5.1%-19.1%
P/E Multiple17.119.111.4%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)849851-0.2%
Cumulative Contribution-8.8%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

2/28/2026 to 9/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS-8.8% 
Market (SPY)10.7%42.1%
Sector (XLI)-4.4%47.2%

Fundamental Drivers

The 24.7% change in UPS stock from 8/31/2025 to 9/15/2026 was primarily driven by a 57.1% change in the company's P/E Multiple.
(LTM values as of)83120259152026Change
Stock Price ($)82.05102.3524.7%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)90,31389,930-0.4%
Net Income Margin (%)6.3%5.1%-19.9%
P/E Multiple12.119.157.1%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)847851-0.5%
Cumulative Contribution24.7%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2025 to 9/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS24.7% 
Market (SPY)18.4%34.6%
Sector (XLI)12.2%42.9%

Fundamental Drivers

The -28.3% change in UPS stock from 8/31/2023 to 9/15/2026 was primarily driven by a -51.2% change in the company's Net Income Margin (%).
(LTM values as of)83120239152026Change
Stock Price ($)142.69102.35-28.3%
Change Contribution By: 
Total Revenues ($ Mil)96,17489,930-6.5%
Net Income Margin (%)10.4%5.1%-51.2%
P/E Multiple12.319.155.5%
Shares Outstanding (Mil)8608511.1%
Cumulative Contribution-28.3%

LTM = Last Twelve Months as of date shown

Market Drivers

8/31/2023 to 9/15/2026
ReturnCorrelation
UPS-28.3% 
Market (SPY)74.1%40.2%
Sector (XLI)62.5%46.3%

Return vs. Risk

Price Returns Compared

 202120222023202420252026Total [1]
Returns
UPS Return30%-15%-6%-16%-16%8%-21%
Peers Return39%-20%26%-0%21%25%111%
S&P 500 Return27%-19%24%23%16%11%103%

Monthly Win Rates [3]
UPS Win Rate58%67%50%33%58%56% 
Peers Win Rate62%42%58%52%67%60% 
S&P 500 Win Rate75%42%67%75%67%44% 

Max Drawdowns [4]
UPS Max Drawdown-17%-30%-30%-22%-36%-20% 
Peers Max Drawdown-16%-34%-19%-22%-28%-21% 
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 9/15/2026 (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

```html
  • 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.

AI Analysis | Feedback

Boeing (BA)

AI Analysis | Feedback

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.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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.

AI Analysis | Feedback

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 55% of its 11 Air Freight & Logistics peers over 5Y. Among the peers that beat it are CHRW, FDX and EXPD. Air Freight & Logistics ranks 21st 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 · 29.8% return
3Y
42%
of 12 industry peers · -24.3% return
5Y
55%
of 11 industry peers · -32.2% 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 -2.2% 19.1x 29.8%-24.3%-32.2%
CHRW C.H. Robinson Worldwide -5.3% 29.5x 20.1%86.3%96.6% +129pp
FDX FedEx 1.8% 16.7x 73.4%60.9%64.6% +97pp
EXPD Expeditors International of Washington 0.9% 27.6x 57.8%69.6%62.1% +94pp
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 31 10.9%96.8%180.5% CDNL 2493% · FIX 2206% · STRL 1934%
Marine Transportation 5 79.5%63.5%166.9% HOS 46479% · MATX 201% · KEX 167%
Construction Machinery & Heavy Transportation Equipment 13 6.7%60.4%124.0% CAT 319% · ALSN 264% · WAB 223%
Aerospace & Defense 54 -4.4%75.4%72.9% ATI 985% · FTAI 881% · HWM 625%
Rail Transportation 7 30.8%64.5%43.4% FSTR 140% · CSX 68% · UNP 56%
Trading Companies & Distributors 19 5.0%38.9%38.0% DXPE 561% · AIT 288% · WCC 201%
Industrial Machinery & Supplies & Components 72 7.6%43.3%36.4% CRS 1276% · PSIX 919% · GHM 582%
Cargo Ground Transportation 16 34.9%6.4%32.7% XPO 249% · R 240% · CVLG 238%
Passenger Ground Transportation 3 -23.2%39.1%26.3% UBER 81% · CAR 26% · LYFT -70%
Diversified Support Services 33 10.2%29.6%25.3% LIME 3445% · TH 417% · WLFC 351%
Electrical Components & Equipment 41 9.4%55.2%19.4% POWL 2263% · BE 1266% · VRT 882%
Building Products 33 -14.6%2.9%17.9% LMB 636% · GFF 375% · PPIH 284%
Industrial Conglomerates 17 7.1%1.9%7.8% RCMT 397% · CSW 133% · CSL 73%
Environmental & Facilities Services 29 -9.4%21.1%-4.0% CECO 875% · NVRI 372% · ADUR 372%
Agricultural & Farm Machinery 17 9.9%6.5%-6.9% BLBD 207% · DE 106% · GENC 47%
Research & Consulting Services 13 -10.3%-23.5%-7.9% HURN 201% · CRAI 91% · GRNQ 57%
Data Processing & Outsourced Services 6 -31.4%-13.1%-23.7% EXLS 47% · BR 10% · G -23%
Passenger Airlines 11 2.1%0.8%-30.0% LTM 3083% · UAL 140% · SKYW 109%
Office Services & Supplies 9 7.0%24.6%-32.0% PBI 200% · TILE 141% · HNI 47%
Human Resource & Employment Services 22 5.8%-19.7%-38.1% BBSI 88% · ADP 56% · PAYX 26%
Air Freight & Logistics ← 12 -8.2%-22.6%-38.3% CHRW 97% · FDX 65% · EXPD 62%
Security & Alarm Services 10 -30.3%11.4%-39.7% CIX 162% · MG 107% · NL 59%
Airport Services 3 -72.2%-79.7%-58.1% JOBY -29% · ASLE -58% · UP -100%
Median of constituents with a full price history over each window. Top names are unfiltered by size in this render.

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 Price102.35308.26180.96157.63193.90273.05187.43
Mkt Cap87.174.037.618.725.425.731.6
Rev LTM89,93094,7205,60316,99712,03612,70114,849
Op Inc LTM6,5766,6231,4488341,1839561,316
FCF LTM5,4575,1161,1156189241,1001,107
FCF 3Y Avg4,5483,744979523810635894
CFO LTM8,8678,9251,3946859731,5951,495
CFO 3Y Avg8,7668,0911,5145948551,5111,512

Growth & Margins

UPSFDXODFLCHRWEXPDJBHTMedian
NameUnited P.FedEx Old Domi.C.H. Rob.Expedito.JB Hunt . 
Rev Chg LTM-0.4%7.7%-0.6%-0.1%6.8%5.3%2.6%
Rev Chg 3Y Avg-2.2%1.8%-2.0%-5.3%0.9%-2.6%-2.1%
Rev Chg Q7.6%12.5%10.4%19.3%32.1%19.4%15.9%
QoQ Delta Rev Chg LTM1.8%3.0%2.7%4.9%7.6%4.7%3.9%
Op Inc Chg LTM-21.7%9.8%1.1%10.2%6.0%18.4%7.9%
Op Inc Chg 3Y Avg-14.8%7.9%-5.0%8.2%-0.5%-5.1%-2.7%
Op Mgn LTM7.3%7.0%25.8%4.9%9.8%7.5%7.4%
Op Mgn 3Y Avg8.3%7.0%26.4%4.1%9.7%7.0%7.7%
QoQ Delta Op Mgn LTM-1.1%-0.1%1.3%0.0%0.2%0.2%0.1%
CFO/Rev LTM9.9%9.4%24.9%4.0%8.1%12.6%9.6%
CFO/Rev 3Y Avg9.8%9.0%26.4%3.5%7.9%12.2%9.4%
FCF/Rev LTM6.1%5.4%19.9%3.6%7.7%8.7%6.9%
FCF/Rev 3Y Avg5.1%4.1%17.1%3.1%7.5%5.1%5.1%

Valuation

UPSFDXODFLCHRWEXPDJBHTMedian
NameUnited P.FedEx Old Domi.C.H. Rob.Expedito.JB Hunt . 
Mkt Cap87.174.037.618.725.425.731.6
P/S1.00.86.71.12.12.01.6
P/Op Inc13.211.226.022.421.526.921.9
P/EBIT12.510.925.922.421.526.821.9
P/E19.116.734.529.527.638.128.6
P/CFO9.88.327.027.326.116.121.1
Total Yield11.5%7.8%3.5%5.0%4.4%3.3%4.7%
Dividend Yield6.2%1.9%0.6%1.6%0.8%0.7%1.2%
FCF Yield 3Y Avg4.7%5.5%2.5%3.8%4.5%3.2%4.1%
D/E0.30.60.00.10.00.00.1
Net D/E0.30.4-0.00.1-0.00.00.1

Returns

UPSFDXODFLCHRWEXPDJBHTMedian
NameUnited P.FedEx Old Domi.C.H. Rob.Expedito.JB Hunt . 
1M Rtn-0.5%-7.5%-14.1%6.6%4.2%-2.4%-1.4%
3M Rtn-5.5%-7.5%-21.8%-16.4%18.2%-2.3%-6.5%
6M Rtn8.1%9.4%-1.6%-7.5%36.1%36.9%8.8%
12M Rtn29.8%73.4%25.4%20.1%57.8%101.9%43.8%
3Y Rtn-24.3%60.9%-10.1%86.3%69.6%44.6%52.7%
1M Excs Rtn2.1%-5.0%-11.5%9.1%6.7%0.2%1.1%
3M Excs Rtn-4.9%-8.7%-24.1%-17.2%18.4%-3.8%-6.8%
6M Excs Rtn-4.7%-3.1%-13.8%-20.1%23.3%21.9%-3.9%
12M Excs Rtn14.1%55.3%10.5%5.7%43.4%84.4%28.8%
3Y Excs Rtn-94.7%-8.8%-82.7%25.2%4.9%-17.9%-13.4%

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$102.35 
Market Cap ($ Bil)87.1 
First Trading Date11/10/1999 
Distance from 52W High-11.7% 
   50 Days200 Days
DMA Price$105.74$102.27
DMA Trendupdown
Distance from DMA-3.2%0.1%
 3M1YR
Volatility28.7%29.3%
Downside Capture87.3470.54
Upside Capture52.3089.22
Correlation (SPY)28.8%35.1%
UPS Betas & Captures as of 8/31/2026

 1M2M3M6M1Y3Y
Beta1.390.720.930.990.800.77
Up Beta1.181.511.161.180.750.81
Down Beta-1.36-0.540.970.970.890.61
Up Capture161%49%76%68%79%37%
Bmk +ve Days10213268138427
Stock +ve Days10213166138381
Down Capture223%98%89%113%79%100%
Bmk -ve Days11213259113324
Stock -ve Days11213361113365

[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
UPS29.4%29.3%0.88-
Sector ETF (XLI)12.6%17.2%0.5243.5%
Equity (SPY)16.3%12.8%0.9035.0%
Gold (GLD)17.6%29.3%0.5512.9%
Commodities (DBC)48.6%20.6%1.82-19.5%
Real Estate (VNQ)5.3%13.5%0.1325.8%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)-33.1%43.8%-0.796.3%

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-7.7%28.8%-0.26-
Sector ETF (XLI)12.1%17.6%0.5255.4%
Equity (SPY)12.4%17.2%0.5550.5%
Gold (GLD)18.7%18.8%0.805.3%
Commodities (DBC)11.7%19.5%0.477.4%
Real Estate (VNQ)0.8%18.9%-0.0644.7%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)10.7%52.5%0.3812.9%

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
UPS3.4%27.9%0.16-
Sector ETF (XLI)13.0%20.1%0.5757.1%
Equity (SPY)15.1%18.0%0.7155.1%
Gold (GLD)12.0%16.4%0.602.1%
Commodities (DBC)8.7%18.1%0.3913.7%
Real Estate (VNQ)4.6%20.7%0.1843.7%
Bitcoin (BTCUSD)63.4%66.2%1.037.4%

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

Short Interest

Short Interest: As Of Date8312026
Short Interest: Shares Quantity25.3 Mil
Short Interest: % Change Since 8152026-2.9%
Average Daily Volume4.2 Mil
Days-to-Cover Short Interest6.0 days
Basic Shares Quantity851.0 Mil
Short % of Basic Shares3.0%

Earnings Returns History

Updated 8/28/2026
Expand for More
 Forward Returns
Earnings Date1D Returns5D Returns21D Returns
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%
...
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive91114
# Negative151310
Median Positive5.3%4.0%4.5%
Median Negative-6.6%-7.0%-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
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%
10/28/2020-8.8%-4.3%0.4%
SUMMARY STATS   
# Positive91114
# Negative151310
Median Positive5.3%4.0%4.5%
Median Negative-6.6%-7.0%-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
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
Collapse to Preview
Report DateFiling DateFiling
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
09/30/201910/29/201910-Q

Recent Forward Guidance

Updated 7/29/2026

Latest: 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


Prior: 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

Q3 2025 Earnings Reported 10/28/2025

Forward GuidanceGuidance Change
MetricSourceLowMidHigh% Chg% DeltaChangePrior
Q4 2025 RevenueReported 24.00 Bil    
Q4 2025 Operating MarginReported11.0%11.25%11.5%   
2025 DividendsReported 5.50 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 5.50 Bil for 2025
2025 Pension ContributionsReported 1.40 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 1.40 Bil for 2025
2025 Effective Tax RateReported 23.75%  0.2%RaisedGuidance: 23.5% for 2025
2025 Capital ExpendituresReported 3.50 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 3.50 Bil for 2025
2025 Share RepurchasesReported 1.00 Bil 0 AffirmedGuidance: 1.00 Bil for 2025

Insider Activity

Updated 9/3/2026
Expand for More
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Brothers, Norman M JRChief Legal & Compliance OffDirectSell1282026106.1525,014  Form
Collapse to Preview
#OwnerTitleHoldingActionFiling DatePriceSharesTransacted
Value
Value of
Held Shares
Form
1Brothers, Norman M JRChief Legal & Compliance OffDirectSell1282026106.1525,014  Form

Investor Activity (13F)

Updated Sep 16, 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

Conviction is constructive, centered on a strategic pivot that is now showing tangible results. After intentionally shedding low-margin volume, Q2 2026 revenue growth accelerated to 7.6% and management raised its full-year outlook. The primary uncertainty is the pace of margin recovery, with the company guiding for significant U.S. domestic margin expansion in the second half of 2026.

STOCK ARCHETYPE
Transactional Logistics Network

(Average Daily Volume) x (Average Revenue Per Piece) Margin expansion driven by a strategic shift in customer/product mix toward higher-revenue-per-piece shipments and improved network efficiency from cost-saving initiatives.

Looking for high-conviction positions with a better risk/reward profile? See what's currently in the Trefis High Quality Portfolio.
INVESTMENT THESIS
Can a 'Better, Not Bigger' Strategy Restore Peak Margins?

Evidence suggests a major strategic pivot is inflecting positively, prioritizing profitable volume over sheer scale.

Mechanism: Margin expansion driven by replacing low-quality volume with premium business, targeting a U.S. domestic operating margin of approximately 8.8% in H2 2026.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Q2 revenue growth accelerated to 7.6% YoY, a sharp reversal from prior declines.
  • U.S. Domestic revenue per piece grew 9.3% in Q2, driven by better mix and pricing.
  • SMBs, a key target, grew to 34.5% of U.S. volume, up 250 basis points YoY.
  • Management raised full-year 2026 revenue guidance to approximately $91.2 billion.
  • Adjusted U.S. Domestic operating profit grew 21% YoY in Q2 2026.
PRIMARY RISK
Negative Operating Leverage

The reconfigured network may fail to deliver expected efficiencies, with transition costs and a weaker mix leading to sustained margin pressure below historical levels.

Mechanism: U.S. Domestic operating margin falling short of the guided 8.8% for H2 2026.
Supporting Evidence:
  • Trailing-twelve-month operating margin is 7.3%, down from 9.3% a year ago.
  • Q3 domestic operating margin is guided to ~7%, a sequential decline from Q2.
  • Trailing operating expenses grew 3.6% while revenue declined 0.4%.
  • A key competitor reports a trailing gross margin of 21.8% versus 16.6% for UPS.
  • International margins face pressure from shifting trade lanes and higher fuel costs.
Key KPI Watchlist
KPI Status Rationale
U.S. Domestic Average Daily Volumedown 3.3% year-over-year for Q2 2026 - Turning aroundThe negative growth is a deliberate part of the company's strategy to reduce lower-quality volume from its largest customer, a plan management states was completed in the quarter. Within the total, premium segments like SMBs are growing, with volume up 4.3% YoY.
U.S. Domestic Revenue Per Pieceup 9.3% year-over-year for Q2 2026 - AcceleratingGrowth is driven by a combination of 'healthy base rates and customer mix improvement' as well as higher fuel surcharges. This reflects the company's focus on revenue quality and a successful shift towards higher-value customers.
U.S. Domestic Average Daily Package Volume16,002 thousands (Q2 2026)Measures the volume of packages flowing through the core U.S. network, indicating demand and network utilization. Current declines reflect the strategic reduction of low-margin volume.
U.S. Domestic Average Revenue Per Piece$14.24 (Q2 2026)Tracks the average revenue generated per package, reflecting the success of pricing actions and the strategic shift towards higher-value customer and product mix.
SMB Penetration of Total U.S. Volume34.5% (Q2 2026)Measures progress in shifting the customer mix towards the strategically important small- and medium-sized business segment, which is considered higher-yielding.
Core Investment Debate

Strategic Inflection vs. Transitional Friction

BULL VIEW

The successful Q2 revenue re-acceleration to 7.6% and raised full-year guidance prove the painful, intentional volume reduction is complete and the company is now poised for profitable growth.

CORE TENSION

Can strong revenue per piece growth (+9.3%) and SMB gains (+4.3% volume) overcome the drag from network transition costs that drove the weak Q3 margin guidance?


PREVAILING SENTIMENT
CAUTIOUSLY BULLISH

The latest evidence favors the bull case. Management has a strong record of executing its strategic plan and has explicitly guided for a strong margin rebound in H2 2026.

BEAR VIEW

The weak Q3 domestic margin guidance of ~7% signals that transition costs are still high and achieving operating leverage on new, higher-quality volume is proving difficult and non-linear.

Next 6 months: Risks and Catalysts
Timeline Event & Metric To Watch
third and fourth quarters of 2026
Idled Aircraft Return
Watch: Two temporarily idled aircraft are expected to return to operational service.
Q3 2026 Earnings (Late Oct 2026)
Domestic Leverage Failure
Watch: U.S. Domestic operating margin falling short of guidance. Cost per piece growing faster than revenue per piece.
Q3 2026 Earnings (Late Oct 2026)
Goodwill Impairment Charge
Watch: A non-cash impairment charge related to Goodwill in the Supply Chain Solutions segment in the next earnings release.
11/3/2026
Negative Peer Read-Through
Watch: Peer Expeditors (EXPD) reporting weak volumes, pricing, or guidance, particularly in international freight, on its earnings call.
12/16/2026
International Margin Erosion
Watch: Peer FedEx (FDX) commentary on international export trends, particularly on Asia and Europe lanes, and fuel cost impacts.
1/13/2027
Peer Earnings Report
Watch: Peer JB Hunt Transport Services (JBHT) is scheduled to report earnings.
Key Events in Last 6 Months
Date Event Stock Impact
2026-08-31
Key Executive Retirement
Details: The company announced that Kate Gutmann, Executive Vice President and President of International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions, will retire for personal family reasons.
-2.5%
$105.33 -> $102.66
2026-08-24
Major Investment Plan Detailed
Details: UPS announced ongoing investments of more than $2 billion across its International, Healthcare and Supply Chain Solutions businesses, which began in 2024 and will continue through 2028.
+3.1%
$102.01 -> $105.14
2026-07-28
Q2 Earnings and Guidance Raise
Details: UPS reported Q2 revenues of $22.8 billion and adjusted EPS of $1.76. The company raised its full-year 2026 revenue guidance by 1.7%. The stock reacted -7.0%.
-7.4%
$111.18 -> $102.92
2026-06-22
Healthcare Logistics Investment
Details: The company announced a $48 million investment in 27 temperature-controlled freight cross-dock facilities to extend its complex healthcare logistics capabilities.
+0.9%
$103.21 -> $104.17
2026-05-29
Announced Mexico Air Expansion
Details: UPS announced a nearly $50 million investment in network capabilities for automotive and industrial manufacturers, including a North American air freight expansion in Mexico.
+2.2%
$105.00 -> $107.31
2026-04-28
Q1 2026 Earnings Reported
Details: UPS announced first-quarter 2026 consolidated revenues of $21.2 billion and non-GAAP adjusted diluted earnings per share of $1.07. The stock reaction was -2.0%.
-1.5%
$104.78 -> $103.20
Risk Management
Position Sizing

5% - 7%

NORMAL POSITION

Sizing is volatility-based: UPS trades at roughly 25% annualized options-implied volatility versus about 13% for the S&P 500 (1.9x the market), around the 16th percentile of its own trailing year. A 5% - 7% position keeps a single-name swing of that size within a diversified portfolio's risk budget.

Diversification Alternatives
FDX - FedEx
Direct Competitor

FedEx reported higher trailing-twelve-month revenue growth of 7.7% and a superior gross margin of 21.8%, suggesting a different cost structure and recent market share gains.

Core Thesis: An investment in a direct peer also undergoing a network transformation but with stronger recent top-line momentum.
EXPD - Expeditors International of Washington
Asset-Light Exposure

As a freight forwarder, this company provides exposure to global trade flows with a less capital-intensive business model compared to owning a physical delivery network.

Core Thesis: A play on global logistics and freight demand without the operational leverage and capital intensity of an integrated carrier.
How Is The Market Pricing UPS?

A logistics giant executing a major pivot from a scale-at-all-costs model to a margin-focused strategy by reconfiguring its network and curating a higher-quality customer base.

UPS is in the midst of a significant structural reset, deliberately shedding approximately 2 million pieces per day of lower-margin volume from its largest customer, Amazon. This "glide down" is paired with a network reconfiguration to create a leaner, more automated, and more agile operation. The core thesis is that by focusing on premium segments like SMBs, B2B, and complex healthcare, UPS can build a more profitable business with better operating leverage, even on a smaller volume base. The second half of 2026 is positioned as the inflection point for this strategy to translate into margin expansion.

What will confirm the thesis

Sustained operating margin expansion in the U.S. Domestic segment, continued growth in SMB and healthcare revenue, and evidence of operating leverage where revenue grows faster than costs.

What will damage the thesis

Inability to replace the shed Amazon volume with sufficient high-margin business, leading to negative operating leverage and margin compression. Loss of share in targeted premium segments.

Noise: Real but irrelevant to thesis

Headline year-over-year volume declines that are part of the planned strategic reduction of Amazon volume.

Repricing Catalyst

The successful completion of the Amazon volume reduction in June 2026, setting the stage for management-guided operating margin expansion in the second half of the year.

What UPS Makes & Who Pays
TTM figures based on the twelve months through fiscal Q1 2026
U.S. Domestic Package
$59.2B TTM (67% of Total) · 6% Margin
What It Is

This segment provides a full spectrum of U.S. domestic air and ground package transportation services to business (B2B) and residential (B2C) customers, including same-day, next-day, and day-definite ground services.

Who Pays & How

Businesses and consumers pay for time-definite, guaranteed small package delivery within the U.S. They choose UPS for its comprehensive network covering nearly all zip codes, service reliability, and a range of delivery speeds.

Transactional, per-package pricing based on service level (e.g., Next Day Air, Ground), package characteristics, and fuel surcharges. An average 5.9% net rate increase was implemented in December 2025.
Competition
FedEx (FDX)
A broad, integrated global air and ground network, brand equity associated with service quality and reliability, and advanced shipping and logistics technologies.
International Package
$18.7B TTM (21% of Total) · 15% Margin
What It Is

This segment offers a wide selection of guaranteed day- and time-definite international transportation services, including customs brokerage, to customers in over 200 countries and territories across Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

Who Pays & How

Businesses and consumers requiring cross-border shipping pay for reliable international delivery with integrated customs clearance. They choose UPS for its significant global presence and ability to facilitate international trade.

Transactional, per-package pricing with rates varying by destination, service level, and applicable fuel surcharges.
Competition
FedEx (FDX)
A significant presence in all major economies, a global integrated network, and extensive customs brokerage capabilities that facilitate cross-border shipments.
UPS Evolution: Price Return by Era
Prior to 2025 · Scale-Driven Growth
-14%
The company's growth was characterized by accommodating large volumes from all customer types, including major e-commerce players, which built a massive global network but also included lower-margin business.
2025-2026 · Strategic Repositioning
-7%
Marked by the "Customer First, People Led, Innovation Driven" strategy, UPS initiated a deliberate reduction of low-quality volume from its largest customer, Amazon. This era involves significant network reconfiguration, cost-cutting, and a strategic pivot to focus on higher-yielding segments like SMBs, B2B, and healthcare to drive margin expansion.
Market Is In Wait-and-See Mode
Price structure is mildly positive. The trend shows early signs of health but hasn't fully committed. Relative to SPY: Lagging on 63D window but 'relative strength' trend is stabilizing. This is not yet a tailwind, but the 'relative strength' is no longer deteriorating. Volume and momentum are mixed. There is no clear institutional footprint in either direction. Earnings history is mildly cautionary. The reaction or drift are negative, and the market is beginning to push back on the thesis.
① Structure
+1
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
0
Volume/Momentum pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by institutional footprint score, OBV divergence, and momentum character.
③ Catalyst
-1
Catalyst pillar score (-4 to +4). Driven by earnings day reaction, 20D post-earnings drift, and post-earnings volume character.
Combined Score
0 / 12
1 Price Structure & Trend Pullback in Uptrend · -
2 Momentum Mixed
3 Relative Strength vs. SPY Neutral Relative Strength
4 Institutional Footprint & Volume Neutral / Mixed
5 Volatility Compressed
6 Key Price Levels Range · Vol Flat
7 Earnings Reaction History Emerging Resilience
8 How the Verdict Is Derived Three Pillars
Core Cache Last Updated: 9/15/2026