Use both. Become familiar and comfortable with the policies and price schedules of each, and decide which service to use on a package-by-package basis.

If you live in the U.S., here are some general guidelines to get you started:

• USPS if it's going to another country.
• UPS regardless of weight if the value is $75 or more.
• UPS regardless of value if the weight is more than 3 pounds.
• USPS Third Class if the weight is between 12 oz. and 32 oz.
• USPS First Class if the weight is less than 12 oz.

Both are equally reliable, although this is difficult to know for sure.

8 Jan 96 [TSL]