How FirstMile Leverages UPS Within Our Network

Fast, flexible shipping is no longer a competitive edge, it’s the baseline. But for many eCommerce brands and 3PLs, meeting that expectation means navigating costly, complex delivery networks. FirstMile was built to simplify that.

Our infrastructure-backed delivery network brings together trusted national, regional, and local partners—including UPS—to simplify logistics and strengthen shipping performance for every package your business sends. Here's how UPS fits into our model.

Xparcel: Built for Optimization

Xparcel is FirstMile’s patented ship method that dynamically selects the best delivery path for every shipment. It’s not a rate-shopping tool or a reseller model. Instead, our technology and infrastructure handle the logistics—linehauls, sortation, zone skipping, and induction—and route packages based on performance, cost, and delivery expectations.

When UPS is the best-fit carrier to meet those goals, it becomes part of that delivery journey.

Why UPS is a Key Delivery Supporter

UPS is known for its extensive national coverage, consistent delivery performance, and proven service quality. Within FirstMile’s network, UPS is strategically leveraged when its capabilities align with the delivery objective—whether that’s reaching a high-density ZIP code, meeting a narrow delivery window, or ensuring a reliable final-mile handoff.

What Makes FirstMile Different

Many platforms compare rates. Some even pass through label access. But FirstMile is more than a middleman—we are a shipping carrier with the infrastructure to execute. That means:

• eCommerce businesses and 3PLs work directly with FirstMile for pickup, billing, tracking, and support
• FirstMile manages the aggregation, routing, sortation, and final-mile delivery logic
• Brands get access to a smarter, blended network—without juggling multiple carrier relationships

How It Works: Infrastructure-Backed Shipping

FirstMile aggregates volume across hundreds of DTC brands and fulfillment providers, moving those shipments through TSA- and IAC-certified hubs. We manage:

• Linehaul movement across the country
• Sortation at key facilities
• Strategic final-mile induction—including into UPS’s network when it makes the most sense

Our routing engine analyzes shipment profiles, performance data, and destination needs to ensure every package is moving the most efficient way possible.

What eCommerce Shippers Gain

• Reliability: Shipments are backed by FirstMile’s service and UPS’s delivery strength
• Flexibility: A blended network ensures no single carrier limits reach or performance
• Simplicity: One label, one invoice, one platform—managed by FirstMile, not the merchant

Final Takeaway

UPS is one of many powerful delivery sponsors in the FirstMile network. When its strengths align with the delivery goal, we integrate it—seamlessly—into the broader shipping strategy.

From pickup to final-mile delivery, FirstMile brings together infrastructure, technology, and trusted networks to help eCommerce brands and 3PLs ship smarter, faster, and with fewer headaches.

Want to see how Xparcel works with UPS and others behind the scenes? Talk to a shipping expert