The search for the cheapest shipping to Italy often begins with comparing multiple couriers, each offering different prices, delivery speeds, and tracking options.
Shipping from the USA to Italy can seem costly, but with the right knowledge, it’s possible to save money without sacrificing reliability.
Services like USPS, FedEx, UPS, DHL, and budget-forwarding platforms all compete to deliver packages at lower costs, but not every option suits every need.
This blog includes the couriers comparison, what factors influence pricing, and which methods give you the best value. You can choose the service that keeps your budget in check and ensures your package reaches Italy safely.
Cheapest Shipping to Italy from the USA
Some of the best shipping services are:
1. USPS (United States Postal Service)
- First-Class Package International Service: Best for lightweight items under 4 lbs. It’s the cheapest, but delivery can take 2–4 weeks. Tracking is limited.
- Priority Mail International: Good balance of cost and speed. Delivery in 6–10 business days with decent tracking.
- Priority Mail Express International: Expensive but faster (3–5 business days). Best for urgent shipments.
Why choose USPS? It’s ideal for budget shippers, especially for small/light packages where price matters more than speed.
2. FedEx
- International Connect Plus: One of the cheapest express services. Around $20–25 for small packages, with 2–5 business day delivery and full tracking.
- International Economy: Affordable for medium to heavy packages, with delivery in 4–6 days.
- International Priority: Faster but pricier, usually 2–3 days.
Why choose FedEx? Reliable tracking, reasonable cost, and better delivery times than USPS for just a little more money.
3. UPS
- Worldwide Saver: Balanced pricing with 2–5 day delivery.
- Worldwide Expedited: Slightly slower but cheaper than Saver.
- UPS Standard (via forwarding services): Not direct from USA to Italy, but affordable when booked through comparison platforms.
Why choose UPS? It’s great for heavier parcels and offers strong customer support, but often pricier than FedEx.
4. DHL Express Worldwide
- Known for being the fastest international courier. Delivery can be as quick as 1–3 business days.
- Tracking and reliability are excellent.
- Downside: Usually more expensive than USPS and FedEx.
Why choose DHL? If speed is your top priority and budget is less of a concern, DHL is unmatched.
5. Flat Export & Consolidators
- Services like Easyship and Parcel Monkey offer Flat Export options that keep costs down.
- Delivery: 9–13 business days.
- Tracking: Limited, but cost is low ($20–22 for small packages).
Why choose Flat Export? Best for non-urgent, low-cost shipping where tracking isn’t critical.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Affordable Shipping to Italy
Quick comparison of the cheapest shipping to Italy from the USA to help you choose the right courier.
| Courier / Service | Cost Range | Delivery Time | Tracking Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USPS First-Class International | $15–25 | 2–4 weeks | Limited | Small, lightweight packages |
| FedEx International Connect Plus | $20–25 | 2–5 business days | Excellent | Affordable + quick delivery |
| UPS Worldwide Expedited | $50–70 | 4–6 business days | Excellent | Heavier packages |
| DHL Express Worldwide | $70+ | 1–3 business days | Excellent | Urgent or time-sensitive shipments |
| Flat Export (Easyship, Parcel Monkey) | $20–22 | 9–13 business days | Basic | Non-urgent, budget-friendly option |
Each service has its strengths, so the best choice depends on whether you value cost, speed, or reliability.
Factors That Affect Shipping Costs to Italy
Before choosing a courier, it’s important to know what shapes the final price.
- Weight and Size: Carriers often charge by dimensional weight, not just actual weight. A light but bulky box may still cost more.
- Delivery Speed: Express or priority shipping is faster, but it adds to the cost. Economy or standard services are more affordable.
- Courier Choice: USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL all set different rates depending on package size, destination, and timeframe.
- Customs and Duties: Italy applies VAT and import duties. These are separate from courier fees but still add to the total expense.
Rate Comparison Tools
When looking for the affordable shipping to Italy, online rate comparison tools are the fastest way to see which courier offers the best deal.
Instead of visiting USPS, FedEx, UPS, or DHL websites one by one, these platforms show all the options in one place.
- Easyship: A global platform that compares more than 250 couriers. It highlights the cheapest, fastest, and best-value services side by side.
- Parcel Monkey: Offers discounted rates on USPS, FedEx, UPS, and DHL. You can book directly through the website and track shipments.
- Qwintry (ePacket): Useful for small and light packages, giving economy rates per kilogram.
- Shippo: Lets you compare carriers and print labels while managing shipments in one dashboard.
These tools help you save money, choose smarter, and avoid paying more than necessary.
How to Use Rate Comparison Tools
When you want the most affordable shipping option, comparison tools like Easyship and Parcel Monkey make the process easier. These platforms gather rates from multiple couriers, so you don’t have to check each one separately.
Step 1: Enter Package Details
Start by typing in the exact weight, dimensions, and destination of your package. Be as accurate as possible because small changes in size or weight can affect the price.
Always choose the correct postal code and city to get the most precise rates. Many tools also let you add details about the item’s value, which helps calculate insurance and customs.
Step 2: View Rate Options
Once the information is entered, the tool instantly displays a list of couriers. You’ll usually see options sorted into categories such as cheapest, fastest, or best overall value.
This makes it easier to see the difference between services like USPS, FedEx, UPS, or DHL, all in one screen. You can also check estimated delivery times and whether full tracking is included
Step 3: Compare and Select
Now it’s time to look closely at the results. Think about your priorities: Do you want the cheap shipping, or do you need the fastest arrival? Compare the cost, delivery time, and tracking level.
If the package is light, a USPS service might be enough. If you need speed and reliability, FedEx or DHL may be the better fit. The side-by-side view makes the decision easier.
Step 4: Book Directly
Most comparison tools let you complete the booking right there on the platform.
You can schedule pickup or drop-off, pay securely online, and sometimes get discounts that aren’t available when booking directly with the courier.
Once booked, you’ll receive a label and tracking number. This step saves time and ensures you lock in the best rate without jumping between different courier websites.
You can often schedule and pay for shipping right through the platform at discounted rates.
Money-Saving Tips When Shipping to Italy
Getting budget-friendly shipping to Italy isn’t just about choosing the right courier. Small adjustments in how you prepare and send packages can cut costs even more.
- Consolidation: If you order from multiple U.S. stores, use a package forwarding service to combine everything into one box. A single larger shipment usually costs less than paying for several smaller ones.
- Packaging: Carriers charge by size as well as weight. Avoid oversized boxes and choose packaging that fits snugly. This helps reduce dimensional weight fees.
- Timing: Express shipping is costly. If you plan ahead and ship early, you can select economy services that are much cheaper but still reliable.
These simple steps can help lower overall costs while keeping deliveries on track.
Best Shipping Option Depending on Needs
Not every shipment has the same priority, and the cheapest shipping to Italy is not always the right choice.
If speed matters most, DHL Express is the fastest option, often delivering in just 1–3 business days with excellent tracking.
For the lowest cost, USPS First-Class International or FedEx International Connect Plus are smart picks, especially for lightweight packages.
When reliability and consistent tracking are important, FedEx Economy or UPS Worldwide Expedited provide a solid balance between price and service.
By matching your needs with the right courier, you can avoid overspending while still getting dependable delivery to Italy.
Conclusion
Choosing the right courier can make a significant difference when seeking the most affordable shipping to Italy.
USPS works well for small and light packages, while FedEx International Connect Plus offers an affordable balance of cost and speed.
DHL is the fastest option, but it comes at a higher price, and UPS is reliable for heavier parcels. Flat Export services and comparison platforms like Easyship or Parcel Monkey can help you find even lower rates.
I always recommend checking these tools before booking because they often reveal discounts you may not find elsewhere.
With the right approach, you can save money, reduce delays, and still get dependable delivery for every package sent from the USA to Italy.
Don’t pay more than you should – check courier prices now and choose the cheapest way to ship to Italy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there hidden fees when shipping to Italy?
Yes. In addition to courier rates, you may need to pay customs duties and VAT (around 22%) upon arrival in Italy.
Does economy shipping to Italy include insurance?
Most economy options don’t include full insurance. You can add coverage when booking through platforms like Easyship or directly with the courier.
