Last Updated:

2024-04-20 00:51:24

United Parcel Service

American multinational shipping & receiving company

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American multinational shipping & receiving company

Founded in 1907, UPS is a Fortune 500 company and one of the world's largest shipping couriers. It offers ground and air shipping services, operates the UPS Store, and handles last-mile delivery through partnerships with USPS. With annual revenues of around US$85 billion in 2020, UPS is the largest courier company globally, with its main international hub located in Louisville, Kentucky.

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1907-08-28

Foundation of American Messenger Company

James E. Casey founded the American Messenger Company with Claude Ryan in Seattle, Washington, with an initial debt of $100. The company focused on package delivery to retail stores and special delivery mail for the U.S. Post Office.

1913

Introduction of Model T Ford as Delivery Vehicle

In 1913, the American Messenger Company acquired a Model T Ford as its first delivery vehicle, marking a significant advancement in their delivery services.

1915

Expansion of Merchants' Parcel Delivery's vehicle fleet

By 1915, Merchants' Parcel Delivery was using four autos and five motorcycles for deliveries, a significant increase from its earlier operations. The company also employed only 20 foot messengers at this time.

1916

Charlie Soderstrom joins the company

In 1916, Charlie Soderstrom joined the company, bringing valuable automobile knowledge that helped expand Merchants Parcel Delivery's fleet. His expertise contributed to the company's growth and development.

1918

Three Seattle department stores switch to United Parcel Service

By 1918, three Seattle department stores opted to use United Parcel Service for their delivery services, replacing their internal delivery systems. This decision highlighted the company's growing reputation and reliability.

1919

Expansion to Oakland, California

In 1919, United Parcel Service expanded beyond Seattle to Oakland, California, and adopted the name United Parcel Service. This marked the beginning of the company's growth beyond its initial location.

1922

Acquisition of Common Carrier in Los Angeles

In 1922, UPS acquired a company in Los Angeles that was a 'common carrier', offering services like daily pickup calls, automatic return of undeliverables, and accepting checks for 'Collect on Delivery' (CODs).

1924

Debut of Conveyor Belt System for UPS Operations

In 1924, UPS debuted a conveyor belt system for the handling of packages, improving efficiency in its operations.

1925

Change of Company Name to United Parcel Service (UPS)

In 1925, the American Messenger Company officially changed its name to United Parcel Service (UPS) as it expanded its operations beyond Seattle to the West Coast. This marked a significant milestone in the company's history.

1927

Expansion of Common Carrier Service

By 1927, UPS expanded its common carrier service to areas up to 125 miles outside Los Angeles, initially limited to a small area.

1929

UPS Resumes Air Service for Two-Day Delivery

After an unsuccessful attempt in 1929, UPS resumed air service in the mid-20th century, offering two-day delivery to major cities on the East and West Coasts. UPS cargo was transported on regular commercial aircraft during this period.

1930

Expansion to the East Coast

In 1930, United Parcel Service expanded its operations to the East Coast, marking a significant milestone in the company's growth and reach across the United States.

1953

UPS Corporate Office Moves to New York City

In 1953, UPS made its first expansion to the East Coast by relocating its corporate office from Los Angeles to 331 East 38th Street in New York City.

1965

Introduction of rounded 'bubble-nose' front hood design for UPS delivery vans

In 1965, UPS introduced a distinct design feature for its delivery vans, the rounded 'bubble-nose' front hood. This design became a signature look for UPS package cars.

1974-12-05

UPS Northside Center Bombing

A package bomb exploded at UPS's Northside center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, killing one man and injuring 10 others. The case remains unsolved.

1975

UPS 'Golden Link'

In 1975, UPS achieved a milestone by becoming the first package delivery company to cover every address in the continental U.S., earning the nickname 'Golden Link.' The company also expanded its services internationally by venturing into Toronto.

1976

UPS Domestic Operation in West Germany

UPS established a domestic operation in West Germany, marking its presence and operations in Europe.

1982

Formation of UPS Airlines

UPS establishes UPS Airlines with FAA authorization, enabling the company to manage air transport logistics and expand its air operations rapidly.

1985

UPS launches its first intercontinental air service between the U.S. and Europe

In 1985, UPS initiated its inaugural intercontinental air service connecting the United States with Europe, marking a significant expansion in its global delivery network.

1988

UPS Airlines Launch

In 1988, UPS received approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to establish its own aircraft fleet, leading to the creation of UPS Airlines.

1989

UPS expands service to Middle East, Africa, and Pacific Rim

In 1989, UPS extended its services to the Middle East, Africa, and the Pacific Rim after a decade of expanding its reach in the Americas and Europe.

1991

Development of DIAD by UPS

In 1991, UPS developed the Delivery Information Acquisition Device (DIAD) to enhance efficiency in servicing a large volume of customers. The handheld device allowed UPS drivers to record and upload delivery information immediately upon pickup.

1992

UPS Electronic Tracking for Ground Shipments

In 1992, UPS started electronically tracking all ground shipments, improving their operational efficiency and customer service.

1993

UPS Daily Deliveries Reach 11.5 Million

By 1993, UPS was delivering up to 11.5 million packages and documents per day, showcasing the scale and efficiency of its operations.

1994

UPS Headquarters Move to Atlanta

In 1994, UPS relocated its corporate headquarters to Atlanta, focusing on energy efficiencies and implementing a tree protection and replacement program. The company's current headquarters is situated at 55 Glenlake Parkway.

1995

UPS Acquisition of SonicAir

In 1995, UPS acquired SonicAir to expand its service parts logistics and compete with Choice Logistics in the market.

1997

United Parcel Service Strike

In 1997, United Parcel Service experienced its only nationwide strike in history lasting 16 days. Teamster President Ron Carey negotiated a new contract for workers during this strike.

1998

Establishment of UPS Capital

UPS Capital was established in 1998 to provide integrated financial services, enabling companies to grow their business with UPS support.

1999-09-20

United Parcel Service (UPS)

An essay by James R. Warren about the United Parcel Service (UPS) published on HistoryLink.org on September 20, 1999.

1999-11-10

UPS Initial Public Offering

On November 10, 1999, UPS became a public company through the largest initial public offering of the 20th century, marking a significant milestone in its corporate history.

2001

UPS Acquires Mail Boxes Etc., Inc.

In 2001, UPS entered the retail business by acquiring Mail Boxes Etc., Inc., the largest franchisor of retail shipping, postal, and business service centers. Following the acquisition, around 3,000 Mail Boxes Etc. locations in the U.S. were re-branded as The UPS Store and started providing discounted UPS-direct shipping rates.

2003

Rebranding of Mail Boxes, Etc. Network as The UPS Store

In 2003, UPS rebranded the Mail Boxes, Etc. network as The UPS Store, enhancing its retail presence and brand identity.

2004-09-15

UPS Company History webpage accessed

On September 15, 2004, the UPS Company History webpage was accessed, offering information about the company's background and evolution.

2005-08-05

UPS acquires Overnite Transportation

On August 5, 2005, UPS completed the acquisition of Overnite Transportation for $1.25 billion, which was approved by the FTC and Overnite shareholders. Overnite was later rebranded as UPS Freight on April 28, 2006.

2005-10-03

UPS purchases Lynx Express in the UK

In 2005, UPS acquired Lynx Express, a major parcel carrier in the UK, for £55.5 million. The purchase was completed after approval from the European Commission, and the first joint package car center operation was opened in 2006.

2007-08-28

UPS celebrates 100th anniversary

On August 28, 2007, United Parcel Service marked its 100th anniversary. It was a significant milestone for the company, which had grown into a global logistics giant.

2008-05

UPS Orders Hybrid Electric and Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles

In May 2008, UPS placed an order for 200 hybrid electric vehicles and 300 compressed natural gas vehicles from Daimler Trucks North America, showcasing its commitment to integrating alternative fuel vehicles into its fleet.

2009-10

UPS Offers Carbon Offsets to Customers

In October 2009, UPS became the first small-package carrier to provide customers with the option to purchase carbon offsets to offset the greenhouse gas emissions produced during the transportation of their packages.

2012-03-19

UPS attempts to acquire TNT Express

In March 2012, UPS announced its intention to acquire TNT Express for $6.8 billion to expand its presence in European and Asian markets. The deal, however, fell through in January 2013 due to regulatory issues.

2013

UPS Environmental Recognition and Fines

In 2013, UPS received positive recognition for its environmental efforts, including high ratings on environmental scorecards. However, the company also faced fines from the Environmental Protection Agency for non-compliance with environmental laws.

2015

UPS Acquires Coyote Logistics

In 2015, UPS expanded its portfolio by acquiring Coyote Logistics, a tech-driven freight brokerage. This acquisition allowed UPS to enhance its services and offer industry-leading options like Saturday ground delivery and pickup.

2016

Introduction of ORION and DIAD V

In 2016, UPS launched ORION, a software optimizing driver routes, and unveiled the fifth generation DIAD V, enhancing efficiency and customer service.

2017-02-12

Merchants Parcel Delivery fleet of vehicles in Seattle

On February 12, 2017, the Merchants Parcel Delivery fleet of vehicles was showcased in Seattle.

2018

UPS's Technological Challenges

In 2018, The Wall Street Journal highlighted UPS's struggles with outdated technology from the 20th century, putting it behind its competitors.

2019-05

UPS Partners with TuSimple

In May 2019, UPS initiated a collaboration with autonomous trucking startup TuSimple to transport cargo between Phoenix, Arizona, and Tucson, Arizona.

2019-07

Formation of UPS Flight Forward and FAA Part 135 Standard Certification Approval

In July 2019, UPS Flight Forward, a subsidiary of UPS, was formed and became the first company to receive FAA's Part 135 Standard certification. This certification allows UPS to operate an unlimited number of drones of any size for cargo delivery.

2019-10

UPS Receives FAA Approval for Drone Delivery

In October 2019, UPS obtained approval from the Federal Aviation Administration to utilize drones for delivering healthcare supplies, enhancing its delivery capabilities.

2020-01-29

UPS Invests in Arrival and Electric Vehicles

On January 29, 2020, UPS announced an investment in UK start-up Arrival and the procurement of 10,000 Generation 2 electric vehicles, aiming for a more sustainable and advanced fleet.

2020-04-07

Publication of 'The Package King: A Rank-and-File History of UPS'

The book 'The Package King: A Rank-and-File History of UPS' by Joe Allen was published on April 7, 2020, providing a detailed history of UPS from a rank-and-file perspective.

2020-06-01

Carol B. Tomé Becomes UPS's First Female CEO

On June 1, 2020, Carol B. Tomé made history by becoming UPS's first female CEO in its 113-year history. Her appointment marked a significant milestone for gender diversity in the company's leadership.

2020-12-31

UPS Reports Total CO2e Emissions for 2020

By the end of 2020, UPS reported its total CO2e emissions for the year, emphasizing its commitment to transparency and sustainability goals. The company aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

2022-11

UPS acquires Bomi Group

In November 2022, UPS acquired Bomi Group, a healthcare-focused warehousing and temperature-controlled transport company based in Europe.

2023-07

Threatened UPS Strike

In July 2023, a strike was threatened by UPS workers over union demands for wage increases, benefits, and air conditioning in delivery vans. The strike would have been the largest single-employer strike in US history and could have cost the economy over $7 billion.

2023-09

UPS acquires MNX

In September 2023, UPS announced the acquisition of MNX, a time-critical health care logistics company based in Long Beach, California, for an undisclosed amount.

2023-10

UPS acquires Happy Returns

In October 2023, UPS acquired Happy Returns, a Los Angeles-based reverse logistics company, from PayPal for an undisclosed amount.

2024-01

UPS announces job cuts and return to office policy

In January 2024, UPS revealed plans to cut 12,000 jobs and require staff to return to the office five days a week. CEO Carol Tomé attributed the decision to a challenging year in 2023.

End of the Timeline
United Parcel Service