Shipping Route Map
Understand how packages move through carrier networks across the US.
Major Carrier Hub Locations
| Carrier | Primary Hubs | Aircraft Fleet |
|---|---|---|
| UPS | Louisville KY (Worldport — largest auto sort), Dallas TX, Philadelphia PA, Ontario CA, Chicago IL | 290+ aircraft |
| FedEx | Memphis TN (SuperHub — largest in world), Indianapolis IN, Newark NJ, Oakland CA, Fort Worth TX | 680+ aircraft |
| USPS | Network Distribution Centers in every region. Major: Jersey City NJ, Chicago IL, Los Angeles CA, Dallas TX, Atlanta GA | 0 (contracts with airlines) |
| DHL | Cincinnati OH (Americas Hub), Los Angeles CA, Miami FL, New York NY | 260+ aircraft (globally) |
How Packages Travel
Step 1 — Origin Scan
Package is picked up or dropped off at local facility, post office, or store.
Package is picked up or dropped off at local facility, post office, or store.
Step 2 — Local Sort
Sorted at local distribution center. Ground goes on truck, air goes to airport hub.
Sorted at local distribution center. Ground goes on truck, air goes to airport hub.
Step 3 — Line Haul / Air Transport
Long-distance movement: 18-wheeler trucks or cargo aircraft between major hubs.
Long-distance movement: 18-wheeler trucks or cargo aircraft between major hubs.
Step 4 — Destination Sort
Sorted at destination facility near recipient ZIP code.
Sorted at destination facility near recipient ZIP code.
Step 5 — Out for Delivery
Loaded on delivery vehicle. Last-mile delivery to final address.
Loaded on delivery vehicle. Last-mile delivery to final address.
Transit Speed by Mode
| Mode | Speed | Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Aircraft | 500+ mph | Express, Priority, Overnight |
| 18-Wheeler Truck | 55-65 mph, ~500 mi/day | Ground, Standard |
| Rail (Intermodal) | ~30 mph avg | Bulk ground, USPS mail |
| Delivery Van | Local routes, 80-150 stops/day | Last-mile delivery |