The UPS Store® Franchise — Veteran Cost & Requirements (2026)
Your local hub for shipping, printing, and small business services. Each store is a vital resource for entrepreneurs, remote workers, and families who need everything from custom signs to passport photos. It's about being the reliable problem-solver your community counts on.
What Is The UPS Store®?
$15,000 (approximately 50%) discount on the franchise fee for a new The UPS Store location. We are proud to support U.S. military veterans in their tr...
Running a UPS Store means being at the center of your community's business needs. You'll manage a retail location that handles shipping, printing, mailbox services, and notary work. Most days start early, preparing for business customers who need their packages out first thing. Your team (typically 2-4 people) handles the counter while you split time between operations, business development, and building relationships with local companies who need regular shipping and printing services. Revenue comes from both one-time retail customers and recurring business accounts. The key is becoming the go-to solution for local businesses who need reliable shipping and professional printing services they can trust.
Quick Facts
Founded
2012
Franchising Since
1980
Headquarters
California
Location Type
Commercial Location
Semi-Absentee
No
SBA Approved
Yes
The UPS Store® Franchise Cost Breakdown (2026)
The total investment to open a The UPS Store® franchise starts at $57,120. Here's what that covers and what you'll need to qualify.
Investment Breakdown
| Item | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $9,950 | $29,950 |
| Site Survey | $1,900 | $3,500 |
| Design Fee | $3,000 | $3,000 |
| Center Development Fee | $7,500 | $7,500 |
| MCO Training Fees | $0 | $1,000 |
| Travel and Living Expenses While Training (per person) | $0 | $4,000 |
| Site Rent and Security Deposit | $0 | $5,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements; Construction Costs; Signage; Furniture and Décor Items | $10,442 | $136,885 |
| Digital Media | $2,325 | $2,325 |
| Optional Keyless Entry | $0 | $944 |
| Computer Hardware/Installation/Freight | $0 | $20,196 |
| Annual Technology Development and Support Fee | $2,304 | $2,418 |
| Software | $3,489 | $5,489 |
| Printer Lease | $544 | $1,749 |
| Other Equipment | $5,566 | $38,031 |
| Start-Up Supplies | $1,600 | $2,100 |
| Insurance | $1,000 | $15,000 |
| Additional Funds – 3 months | $7,500 | $25,000 |
| UPS Trackpad®, Computer Time Rental & Extra Back Office Computer | $0 | $15,785 |
Initial investment starts with the franchise fee of 29950 (with a 50% veteran discount available). Add in site build-out, equipment, and initial inventory, and you're looking at a minimum of 57120 to get started. The total investment can range up to 415927 depending on your location and build-out costs. Ongoing fees include a 5% royalty and 2.5% marketing fund contribution based on gross sales. There's also an annual technology fee of 2418. During your consultation, we'll map out exactly what your specific location's startup costs look like and identify financing options that work for your situation.
Beyond your initial investment, you'll pay a 5% of STR royalty on gross sales plus a 2.5% of STR marketing contribution. The true monthly cost of ownership includes additional fees most buyers don't account for until they're already in.
→ We break down your realistic monthly overhead during your consultation.
What Do The UPS Store® Franchise Owners Make?
The UPS Store® does not currently include an Item 19 Financial Performance Representation in their FDD. This means they don't publicly disclose revenue or earnings data from their franchise system.
That's not necessarily a red flag — many strong franchises choose not to include Item 19. But it does mean you'll need to validate earnings potential through franchisee conversations during your due diligence.
Why Veterans Succeed with The UPS Store®
The UPS Store is all about precision, process, and people. Success here comes from building a reliable operation that delivers consistently excellent service - sound familiar? It's the same mindset that makes military units work: clear standards, attention to detail, and taking care of your people and your mission. This isn't just about shipping packages - it's about being a crucial support system for your community. Local businesses depend on you to handle their printing and shipping needs. Families trust you with their important documents and precious packages. That service mindset and commitment to excellence directly translates to building a successful operation.
Military Fit Analysis
Military Fit Score
Best Suited For
Former logistics specialists and admin personnel often excel here, but that's not the whole story. Success comes from being organized, detail-oriented, and good with both customers and employees. If you can manage multiple priorities while maintaining high standards and building relationships, you've got the foundation for success.
🎖️ Veteran & Military Discount
The UPS Store® participates in the VetFran program and offers a 50% discount on the franchise fee for qualified veterans, active duty, and military spouses.
$15,000 (approximately 50%) discount on the franchise fee for a new The UPS Store location. We are proud to support U.S. military veterans in their transition to business ownership. Each year, we waive the full franchise fee for up to 10 qualified, honorably discharged veterans who meet our application requirements and commit to majority ownership of the business. This initiative reflects our belief that the leadership, discipline, and dedication veterans bring make them outstanding franchise owners.
This discount applies to the initial franchise fee. Combined with SBA veteran loan programs and VA small business resources, your actual out-of-pocket investment could be significantly lower than the listed range.
→ We calculate your true cost — including available discounts, financing options, and veteran-specific programs — during your consultation.
Is The UPS Store® the Right Franchise for Your Background?
Every veteran's transition is different. Your MOS, leadership experience, and financial goals all factor into which franchise makes sense. We've helped veterans across every branch find franchise businesses that match their strengths — not just their budget.
Talk to a veteran franchise consultant who's been where you are.
The UPS Store® Training & Support
The New Franchisee Training Program includes Web-Based Training, In Store Experience, Print Services Training, and a 5-day University Business Course. Training is conducted at a regional training location, virtually, or by a certified trainer.
Training runs 5 days ISE I + 5 days ISE II + 5 days UBC and covers operations, marketing, sales, and systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About The UPS Store®
How much does a The UPS Store® franchise cost?
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Does The UPS Store® offer a veteran or military discount?
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Is The UPS Store® a home-based franchise?
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Can you run a The UPS Store® franchise semi-absentee?
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What do The UPS Store® franchise owners make?
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Is The UPS Store® a good franchise for veterans?
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What is The UPS Store®'s FDD and where can I read it?
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Veteran-Friendly Franchises Similar to The UPS Store®
Your Next Chapter Starts with a Conversation
You've done the research. You've looked at the numbers. Now the question is whether The UPS Store® — or one of 500+ franchises in our network — is the right fit for where you're headed.
In 30 minutes, we'll cover:
- Whether this franchise matches your skills & goals
- What the FDD reveals that most buyers miss
- Your true cost after veteran discounts & financing
- 2-3 alternative franchises worth comparing
Free. No obligation. Veteran to veteran.