Shipping has an environmental footprint, and UPS — as one of the world’s biggest logistics companies — has set ambitious goals to shrink it. This guide covers UPS’s sustainability commitments, its alternative-fuel “Rolling Laboratory” fleet, carbon-offset options, and the simple steps any shipper can take to make their own deliveries greener.
This is an independent guide. For current programs and options, see ups.com — we are not affiliated with United Parcel Service.
UPS’s climate goals
UPS has pledged to reach carbon neutrality by 2050, with interim milestones along the way — including a goal to cut carbon intensity per global small package by 50% by 2035. These targets push investment in cleaner vehicles, renewable energy, and more efficient operations.
The “Rolling Laboratory” fleet
UPS calls its fleet strategy a Rolling Laboratory: rather than a single fuel, it deploys whichever low-emission technology works best for each route. The fleet of thousands of alternative-fuel and advanced-technology vehicles includes:
- All-electric vehicles and electric hybrids
- eBikes for dense urban delivery
- Hydrogen fuel-cell and hydraulic-hybrid vehicles
- Propane, compressed natural gas (CNG) and liquefied natural gas (LNG)
- Renewable natural gas (RNG), a key part of its alternative-fuel strategy
UPS also invests in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) for its air network and in more efficient facilities and route planning (its ORION routing software cuts miles driven).
Carbon-neutral and offset shipping
UPS has offered carbon-offset programs that fund verified projects to balance the emissions of customers’ shipments. The exact form has evolved over time — from a per-shipment add-on to programs aimed more at business and contractual customers, often through third-party offset partners. Because availability and details change, check ups.com for the current carbon-neutral or offset options before relying on one.
Greener packaging
UPS promotes right-sized, recyclable packaging and provides packaging guidance to cut waste. Smaller boxes mean less material and lower dimensional weight — good for the planet and your wallet.
How to make your shipping greener
- Right-size your box and use minimal, recyclable filler — see our UPS packing guide.
- Choose ground over air when you can — UPS Ground has a lower footprint than air freight.
- Consolidate multiple items into one shipment instead of several.
- Reuse and recycle boxes and packaging materials.
Frequently asked questions
Is UPS carbon neutral?
Not yet — UPS has pledged to reach carbon neutrality by 2050, with interim goals like cutting carbon intensity per package 50% by 2035, and it offers carbon-offset programs in the meantime.
What is the UPS Rolling Laboratory?
It’s UPS’s strategy of running many vehicle types — electric, hybrid, eBikes, hydrogen, propane, CNG, LNG and renewable natural gas — and using whichever works best on each route.
Does UPS offer carbon-neutral shipping?
UPS has offered carbon-offset programs that fund emissions-reduction projects. The format has changed over time, so check ups.com for the current option that applies to you.
How can I ship more sustainably?
Right-size your packaging, choose ground over air when possible, consolidate shipments, and reuse or recycle boxes.
Related: How to Pack for UPS · UPS Ground Shipping · Reduce UPS Costs.
