Anything important, expensive, or sentimental gets shipped ups or fedex. Ever tried to file a claim w/ the usps? Even with insurance, it is impossible! Small items (under 5 pounds) are always cheaper to send usps, as long as tracking isn't important to you. Me, I like to know where my package is and who signed for it and when. Like anything, you get what you pay for. The pack and ship stores charge more for the usps because they have to cover their cost plus the cost of the postage.