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UPS
Annual Report 2016

UPS · NYSE Industrials
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Ticker UPS
Exchange NYSE
Sector Industrials
Industry Integrated Freight & Logistics
Employees 10,000+
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FY2016 Annual Report · UPS
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Invest. Grow. Deliver.

2016 UPS Annual Report

QUICK FAC T S

YEAR
FOUNDED
1907

MORE THAN
26,000
UPS ACCESS
POINT
LOCATIONS

101.5
MILLION
DAILY ONLINE
TRACKING

434,000
EMPLOYEES

2,000
WORLDWIDE
OPERATING
FACILITIES

8,100
ALTERNATIVE
FUEL
VEHICLES

4.9
BILLION
2016 DELIVERY
VOLUME

10.3
MILLION
CUSTOMERS

114,000
VEHICLES
IN DELIVERY
FLEET

MORE THAN
30 MILLION
UPS MY CHOICE® 
MEMBERS

2,167
DAILY FLIGHT
SEGMENTS

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHT S

K E Y M E TRIC S

2016

2015

2014

2016

2015

2014

Revenue

$60,906

$58,363

$58,232

Return on assets (adj.)*

12.8%

13.3%

12.3%

Operating expenses

55,439

50,695

53,264

Return on assets (GAAP)

8.7%

13.1%

8.5%

Net income

Adjusted net income*

Diluted earnings per share

Adjusted diluted earnings  
per share*

Dividends declared  
per share

3,431

5,104

3.87

5.75

4,844

3,032

4,923

4,389

5.35

5.43

3.28

4.75

3.12

2.92

2.68

Assets

40,377

38,311

35,440

Long-term debt

12,394

11,316

9,856

Shareowners’ equity

429

2,491

2,158

Capital expenditures

2,965

2,379

2,328

Cash and marketable 
securities

4,567

4,726

3,283

(in millions except for per-share amounts)

Return on invested  
capital (adj.)*

Return on invested  
capital (GAAP)

32.5%

32.4%

28.2%

27.4%

39.2%

22.2%

Dividend yield

2.7%

3.0%

2.4%

FRE E C A SH FLOW

2016

2015

2014

Net cash from operations

$6,473

$7,430

$5,726

Capital expenditures

(2,965)

(2,379)

(2,328)

Proceeds from disposals  
of PP&E

Net change in finance 
receivables

88

9

26

5

53

44

Other investing activities

(59)

(30)

(63)

Free cash flow

$3,546

$5,052

$3,432

*See reconciliation of Non-GAAP financial measures on page A1.

(in millions of dollars)

DE AR FE LLOW SHAREOWNE R , 

In 2016, UPS experienced 
a significant increase in 
packages delivered and this 
trend is expected to continue 

in coming years. 

Looking into the future, there are many 

great opportunities for UPS. Demand for 
our comprehensive portfolio of solutions 
is increasing around the world and we are 
positioning the company to capitalize on 
strategic growth opportunities.

We are embarking on the most sweeping 
transformation of our network in decades. 
UPS is undertaking a global transformation 
to further its “Smart Logistics Network”. 
This enables us to take advantage of new, 
profitable growth markets and create greater 
efficiency in our global business model.

Over the next several years we will dedicate 
additional capital to the global UPS network. 
We’ll invest aggressively in new sorting 
capacity, new technology, new automation 
and new capabilities. We’re also investing in 
new flexibility and efficiency that will allow 
us to bend the cost curve even lower.

Indeed, if there are three words that serve 
as the touchstones that together drive every 
decision we make, they are:

Invest. Grow. Deliver.

The pace of change is creating new 
opportunities for product innovation, 
geographic expansion and use of technology 
to disrupt traditional business models. 
Companies today must constantly assess 
everything they do to ensure they’re keeping 
pace. UPS has been doing just that and we will 
continue to optimize every element of our 
business – including operations, investment 
levels, our product mix and pricing.

The pace of change is also creating new 
opportunities for businesses. In response, 
we’ve continued to transform to take 

advantage of market opportunities that  
create profitable growth. 

In 2016 we:

•  Announced an acquisition and a  

strategic partnership with game-changing 
companies that enable UPS to extend its 
global capabilities. 

•  Invested $3 billion in capital expenditures 

to expand, automate and optimize our 
integrated global network. 

•  Completed the first phase of ORION, our 

proprietary route-optimization initiative, 
which is now generating more than 
$400 million in annual cost savings and 
avoidance. We are working on further 
enhancements to ORION that will deliver 
additional benefits in the future. 

•  Invested heavily in our International 

operations – investments that already are 
paying off. Since 2014, UPS has recorded eight 
consecutive quarters of double-digit growth 
in International adjusted operating profits. 

These achievements, along with every new 
investment, are a step forward in building the 
UPS Smart Logistics Network, an integrated 
global equipment and facility network that is 
connected by a proprietary digital technology 
ecosystem. We’re confident this approach 
will enable us to achieve even greater levels of 
growth and efficiency over time. 

A Year in Review

Our 2016 results demonstrate that UPS is 
adapting well to the many changes in the 
global economy, including double-digit 
growth in ecommerce. As we look back at  
the year:

•  UPS delivered, on average, about 19 million 

packages per day. This higher volume drove a 
4.4 percent increase in consolidated revenue, 
to nearly $61 billion.

1

Revenue by Segment

percent

Revenue by Segment

RE VE NUE BY SEG M E NT
percent

percent

Revenue by Geography

Revenue by Geography

RE VE NUE BY GEOGR APHY
percent

percent

percent

17%

– U.S. Domestic Package

17%

20%

63%

– Supply Chain & Freight
20%

63%

– U.S. Domestic Package

– Supply Chain & Freight

– International Package

– International Package

21%

– U.S. 

21%

79%

– International

79%

– U.S. 

– International

Robust Export shipment  

growth of 5.1 percent  

was the primary  

contributor to UPS  

International daily  

shipments rising  

4.4 percent.

Revenue
RE VE NUE
in billions of dollars

in billions of dollars

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

53.1

54.1

55.4

58.2

58.4

60.9

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

2

*See reconciliation of Non-GAAP financial measures on page A1.

Revenue by Segment

percent

Revenue by Geography

percent

17%

20%

63%

– U.S. Domestic Package

– Supply Chain & Freight

– International Package

21%

79%

– U.S. 

– International

Revenue

Revenue

in billions of dollars

in billions of dollars

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

53.1

54.1

55.4

58.2

58.4

60.9

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

53.1

54.1

55.4

58.2

58.4

60.9

0

10

20

0

30

10

40

20

50

30

60

40

50

60

Our customers need  supply chains that enable them  to rapidly respond to  changes in demand,  exchange rates,  trade laws and technology.  •  Even as we invest, we continue to generate 
strong results that position UPS for profitable 
growth. For the full year, adjusted diluted 
earnings per share increased almost 6 percent, 
to $5.75*, which also marked an all-time high.

•  These strong results were driven in part by 
our International business segment, which 
generated a more than 13 percent* increase 
in adjusted operating profit growth on 
shipment growth of 4.4 percent. 

•  Cash from operations remained robust, at 
$6.5 billion, which enabled us to raise the 
dividend by about 7 percent in 2016. Our 
cash flow also enabled UPS to fund nearly 
$3.0 billion in capital expenditures. We 
returned over 100 percent of Net Income 
to our Shareowners, paying $2.8 billion in 
dividends, and repurchasing about $2.7 
billion in shares. 

•  UPS was voted No. 1 in the delivery industry 
in Fortune magazine’s 2017 rankings of the 
“World’s Most Admired Companies.” UPS 
also ranked sixth in the Harris Poll’s annual 
corporate reputation survey. The rankings 
highlight the strength of our portfolio of 
solutions and the UPS brand. 

U.S. Domestic

The U.S. Domestic segment produced solid 
revenue growth of 4.2 percent over the prior 
year. The revenue gains were driven by 
balanced growth across all products. The 
Next Day Air product category led the way, 
up 4.8 percent on a per-day basis. Ground 
products were up 4.2 percent and Deferred 
Air products increased 2.9 percent per-day. 
Adjusted operating profit increased to  
$4.9 billion* and adjusted operating margin 
was 12.9 percent*.

International

The International business segment delivered 
a strong performance again in 2016. Revenue 
increased to $12.4 billion. Robust Export 
shipment growth of 5.1 percent was the 
primary contributor to total International 
daily shipments rising 4.4 percent.

Total adjusted operating profit grew to $2.5 
billion*, an increase of 13.2 percent*, marking 
the second consecutive year of double-digit 
earnings growth.

Supply Chain and Freight

The Supply Chain and Freight segment 
experienced strong revenue growth of 8.3 
percent. This year’s revenue growth was 
boosted by the August 2015 purchase of 
Coyote Logistics. We also saw increased 
revenue in the Distribution unit led by 
growth in the Healthcare, Retail and 
Aerospace sectors.

The Global Freight Forwarding and the U.S. 
LTL businesses eliminated structural costs 
and focused on profitable customers and 
lanes, as these units managed through weaker 
market conditions. These efforts, along with 
the new capabilities acquired in freight 
brokerage and healthcare, provide a good 
foundation on which to build.

Forward Fast

The change and disruption in the modern 
global economy is creating extraordinary 
opportunities for companies who can move 
forward fast. At UPS, we are moving faster to 
capture opportunity. For all the change that 
we’ve seen in the modern global economy, I 
believe we are still in the early stages of this 
evolution. One of the biggest catalysts is the 
desire customers have for more flexibility  
and customization.

For instance, technology is allowing mass 
production to give way to a new era of mass 
customization with production located much 
closer to consumption. Our customers need 
supply chains that enable them to rapidly 
respond to changes in demand, exchange 
rates, trade laws and technology. We’ve 
developed the expertise and the custom 
solutions that enable customers to create 
highly flexible supply chains.

The continued rise of ecommerce has shifted 
the patterns for speed and personalization. 
As a result, UPS embarked on a multi-year 
program to create differentiated product 
solutions that position the company to 
lean-in to the future growth of ecommerce 
– serving retailers and manufacturers from 
around the globe who have their own direct 
distribution channel. 

3

To support the growth we’re experiencing from international  

and ecommerce we’re going to accelerate automation in our facilities.  

We are updating and replacing some older facilities by building new, flexible and  

highly automated hubs that will provide greater speed, flexibility and productivity. 

Net Income

in billions of dollars

Net Income
NE T INCOM E
in billions of dollars
in billions of dollars

Diluted Earnings

DILUTE D E ARNINGS
in dollars per share

in dollars per share

Diluted Earnings

in dollars per share

Operating Margin

Operating Margin

percent

percent

5

4

3

2

1

0

8

.

3

3

.

4

8

.

0

4

.

4

.

4
4

.

3
4

0
3

.

5

4

3

2

1

8
8
3
4

.
.

.
.

3
9
4
4

.

8
4
0
3

.

.

4
4

0

.

4
1
4
5

.

5

4

3

2

1

0

4
8
3

.

5
3
4

.

3
8
0

.

3
5
4

.

1
6
4

.

7
5
4

.

8
2
3

.

.

4
4

.

3
4

0
3

.

.

4
4

8
4

.

.

9
4

.

4
3

.

1
5

5

4

3

2

1

4
5
8
3
3
5

.
.

5
3
3
4
4
5

.
.

5
7
4

.

0

15

12

9

6

3

0

15

12

9

6

3

5

.

8

2

.

2

1

0

1
6
4

.

7
5
4

.

8
2
3

.

5
7
4

.

5

3

.

5

3

4

.

5

7

8

.

3

5

7

.

5

4

.

1

1

9

.

2

1

5

.

2

1

.

3

1

7

.

2

1

8

.

2

1

4

1

.

.

1

3

1

1

9

3

.

.

2

3

1

1

5

0

.

.

2

9

1

3

.

.

3

3

1

1

7

.

2

1

8

.

2

1

5

.

8

2

.

2

1

1

.

3

1

3

.

3

1

0

.

9

3

.

3

1

3
5
5
7
4
5

.

.

3
7
8
8
0
3

.

.

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011
2015

2012
2016

2013

2014

2015

2016

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011
2015

2012
2016

2013

2014

2015

2016

2011

2012

2013

2014

2011

2015

2012

2016

2013

2014

2015

2016

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

Net Income

in billions of dollars

Diluted Earnings

in dollars per share

5

4

3

2

1

0

5

4

3

2

1

0

8

.

3

3

.

4

8

.

0

4

.

4

4

.

4

3

.

4

0

.

3

4

.

4

8

.

4

9

.

4

4

.

3

1

.

5

4

8

.

3

5

3

.

4

3

8

.

0

3

5

.

4

1

6

.

4

7

5

.

4

8

2

.

3

5

7

.

4

5

3

.

5

3

4

.

5

7

8

.

3

5

7

.

5

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

GAAP

ADJUSTED*

4

*See reconciliation of Non-GAAP financial measures on page A1.

15

12

9

6

3

0

.

4
1
1

.

9
2
1

5
2

.

.

1
3
1

.

7
2
1

.

8
2
1

.

5
8

.

2
2
1

.

1
3
1

.

3
3
1

0
9

.

.

3
3
1

OPE R ATING M ARGIN
percent

Operating Margin

percent

The UPS International  operating model has  evolved to serve  not only multinationals,  but also the small and  mid-sized businesses  that want to ship  regionally and locally.The shifting trade patterns and disruption 
create a world of new possibilities, but 
only for those companies, like UPS, who 
can transform, invest wisely and who have 
the scale, the flexibility, and the integrated 
network to execute on these opportunities. 

So be assured that today, there is no part of 
our business where we aren’t asking, “How 
can we do better?”

We’ve been rethinking and re-imagining our 
operations, our service, our product mix and 
our pricing. The company began making the 
changes and the investments to improve our 
service and to grow profitably.

UPS is investing in automation in our global 
network and in fast-growing segments like 
healthcare, aerospace and ecommerce.  
We’re adding more flexible capacity and more 
technology to improve our productivity and 
to capitalize on market trends and enable our 
customers to take advantage of these trends 
today and tomorrow.

Today, we have great opportunities before 
us to create new legs of growth for UPS 
in international, in healthcare and in 
ecommerce. Our network is the most efficient, 
and we’re making it even more efficient than 
ever, accelerating our ability to grow.

The time to invest more aggressively is now.

Investing for Growth

To support the growth we’re experiencing 
from international and ecommerce, we’re 
accelerating automation in our facilities. 
We are updating and replacing some older 
facilities with new highly automated hubs 
that will provide greater speed, flexibility  
and productivity.

We’re a company that takes great pride in 
how we’ve transported technology from one 
part of our integrated network to another. 
Looking forward, the new, highly automated 
hubs will be integrated with our network-
planning technology. This will enable UPS to 
extend, connect, and optimize package flow 
throughout all parts of the network in the 
same way that ORION enabled us to optimize 
our driver routes.

Imagine being able to shift and re-direct 
package volume between our hubs in ways 

that lower our costs, boosts our productivity, 
responds to unanticipated surges, all the 
while improving our service levels, our asset 
utilization and our profitability. 

Having the world’s largest, most-efficient and 
most-integrated network has enabled us to 
maintain industry-leading margins, even as 
our industry has been buffeted by volatility 
in oil prices, swings in exchange rates, 
softness in manufacturing, and the political 
uncertainties that have left many businesses 
reluctant to expand.

While increasing our efficiency helps us  
bend the cost curve, we are also committed  
to achieve top-line growth. Over the next  
few years, we must raise the percentage  
of capital invested back in the business to  
our historic norm, to deliver on our major 
growth opportunities.

At UPS, we will do this by maximizing the 
power of our balance sheet while maintaining 
the flexibility to take advantage of any 
strategic acquisitions that come available.

Ecommerce Opportunity

There’s no ignoring the fact that ecommerce 
is having an effect not just on retail, but on 
all of business as more companies implement 
direct distribution channels.

The shift toward online commerce is 
permanent. In fact, the trend is accelerating 
and as a result, UPS has embarked on a 
multi-year journey to create profitable 
solutions that allow us to lean in to the future 
growth of ecommerce, serving retailers, 
manufacturers and the many other businesses 
looking to build direct distribution channels.

The good news is that the investments  
we’re making in capacity and new solutions 
will benefit all of our customers, regardless  
of industry. That’s important, because 
just as ecommerce has changed consumer 
expectations, the internet is changing 
procurement and customer expectations in 
the industrial world.

The addition of more efficiency and 
technology to the UPS network will create 
more density on driver routes, lower operating 
costs and bolster shareowner returns.

5

Dividends Declared
DIVIDE NDS DECL ARE D
in dollars per share
in dollars per share

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2.08

2.28

2.48

2.68

2.92

3.12

YOY %
Growth rate

10.6%

9.6%

8.8%

8.1%

9.0%

6.8%

UPS is making the  

investments to  

increase efficiency,  

capacity and profitability  

of its global  

integrated network. 

Number Shares Repurchased

in millions

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

38.7

21.8

43.2

26.4

26.8

25.4

Share Repurchase

in billions of dollars

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2.7

1.6

3.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

3.0

0

10

20

30

40

50

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

3.0

3.5

4.0

Dividends Declared

in dollars per share

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2.08

2.28

2.48

2.68

2.92

3.12

YOY %

Growth rate

10.6%

9.6%

8.8%

8.1%

9.0%

6.8%

Number Shares Repurchased
NUM B E R SHARE S RE PURCHA SE D
in millions
in millions

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

38.7

21.8

43.2

26.4

26.8

25.4

Share Repurchase

in billions of dollars

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2.7

1.6

3.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

3.0

0

10

20

30

40

50

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

3.0

3.5

4.0

Dividends Declared

in dollars per share

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2.08

2.28

2.48

2.68

2.92

3.12

YOY %

Growth rate

10.6%

9.6%

8.8%

8.1%

9.0%

6.8%

Number Shares Repurchased

in millions

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

38.7

21.8

43.2

26.4

26.8

25.4

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

3.0

0

10

20

30

50

40

6

*See reconciliation of Non-GAAP financial measures on page A1.

0.0

0.5

1.0

1.5

2.0

2.5

3.0

3.5

4.0

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

2.7

1.6

3.8

2.7

2.7

2.7

SHARE RE PURCHA SE
in billions of dollars

Share Repurchase

in billions of dollars

...just as ecommerce  has changed  consumer expectations,  the internet  is changing procurement  and customer  expectations in the  industrial world.The International Segment has strong 
momentum and we will continue to prioritize 
investment to expand our international 
footprint through organic growth, 
partnerships and acquisitions. You’ll hear 
more in the coming months.

Summary

UPS is making the investments to increase 
efficiency, capacity and profitability of its 
global integrated network. 

Think of it as the next generation of the  
UPS Network.

A smart, efficient and integrated network.

The alignment we’re creating across our 
business and the transformational changes 
we’re making in our operations represent 
great opportunities for our customers and our 
investors. In short, UPS is Investing so it will 
continue to Grow and Deliver for shareowners.

David Abney

UPS Chairman and 
Chief Executive Officer

Healthcare Opportunity

Each industry has specific transportation 
and logistics requirements, driven by 
customer needs, package characteristics 
and government regulations. For these 
reasons, healthcare logistics is a significant 
opportunity for UPS.

The ongoing advances in medicine, coupled 
with the aging of the world’s population, 
creates the need for logistics partners who 
can provide the specialized temperature, 
chain-of-custody and speed-in-transit  
that today’s cutting-edge healthcare 
companies require. 

Over the past five years, UPS made 
acquisitions to further build out a suite of 
specialized solutions. Our acquisitions of 
Polar Speed, CEMELOG, Marken and others, 
give us unique new capabilities in clinical 
trials storage and distribution that our 
competitors around the world can’t match.

International Opportunities

While ecommerce makes the headlines today, 
we remain resolute that the international 
markets remain our best long-term 
opportunity. As a result, we’re continuing 
to build out our global network, deepening 
and widening the services we provide in the 
world’s fast-growing markets. 

In fact, in 2016 our four fastest-growing 
markets were China, Vietnam, Pakistan and 
the United Arab Emirates, each of which 
recorded double-digit growth. More broadly, 
the 15 developed and emerging markets we’ve 
prioritized offer between $80 billion and 
$90 billion in opportunity across all of our 
business units. 

We are committed to helping customers of 
all sizes navigate global trade complexity 
and take advantage of the opportunity that 
comes with opening up markets. The UPS 
International operating model has evolved 
to serve not only multinationals, but also the 
small and mid-sized businesses that want to 
ship regionally and locally.

7

M ANAGE M E NT COM M IT TE E

 David Abney
UPS Chairman and  
Chief Executive Officer

 Jim Barber
Senior Vice President and 
President, UPS International

 Norman Brothers, Jr.
Senior Vice President, General Counsel 
and Corporate Secretary

 Teresa Finley
Senior Vice President,  
Chief Marketing and 
Business Services Officer

 Alan Gershenhorn
Executive Vice President and  
Chief Commercial Officer

 Myron Gray
Senior Vice President and 
President, U.S. Operations

 Kate Gutmann
Senior Vice President,  
Worldwide Sales and Solutions

 Teri Plummer McClure
Chief H.R. Officer and Senior V.P.,  
Global Human Resources and Labor

 Juan Perez
Chief Information Officer

 Richard Peretz
Senior Vice President,  
Chief Financial Officer  
and Treasurer

 Mark Wallace
Senior Vice President,  
Global Engineering and Sustainability

Candace Kendle
Co-founder and Former Chairman and  
Chief Executive Officer, Kendle International Inc.
Director since 2011

Clark T. Randt, Jr.
Former U.S. Ambassador to the People’s  
Republic of China, President of Randt & Co. LLC
Director since 2010

UPS BOARD OF DIREC TOR S

David P. Abney
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Director since 2014

Rodney C. Adkins
Former Senior Vice President of  
Corporate Strategy, IBM
Director since 2013

Michael J. Burns
Former Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and 
President, Dana Corporation
Director since 2005

Ann M. Livermore
Former Executive Vice President,  
Hewlett-Packard Company
Director since 1997

Rudy H.P. Markham
Former Financial Director, Unilever 
Director since 2007

William R. Johnson
Former Chairman, President and  
Chief Executive Officer, H.J. Heinz Company
Director since 2009

Franck Moison
Vice Chairman
Colgate-Palmolive Company
Director since 2017

8

John T. Stankey
CEO AT&T Entertainment Group
Director since 2014

Carol B. Tomé
Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice 
President—Corporate Services,  
The Home Depot, Inc.
Director since 2003

Kevin M. Warsh
Former Member of the Board of  
Governors of the Federal Reserve System  
and Distinguished Visiting Fellow,  
Hoover Institution, Stanford University
Director since 2012

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
Form 10-K

FOR ANNUAL AND TRANSITION REPORTS
PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

(Mark One)

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 
or

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from                      to                     

Commission file number 001-15451
____________________________________  

__________________________________ 

United Parcel Service, Inc.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter) 

Delaware

(State or Other Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)

55 Glenlake Parkway, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

58-2480149

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

30328

(Zip Code)

(404) 828-6000
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
_______________________________  
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Title of Each Class

Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered

Class B common stock, par value $.01 per share

Floating Rate Senior Notes due 2020

1.625% Senior Notes due 2025

1% Senior Notes due 2028

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

New York Stock Exchange

___________________________________  
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Class A common stock, par value $.01 per share

(Title of Class)

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months 

(or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted 

pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  

    No  

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, 

in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definition of “accelerated filer”, 

“large accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. Check one:

Large accelerated filer  

  Accelerated filer  

  Non-accelerated filer  

  Smaller reporting company  

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  

    No  

The aggregate market value of the class B common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $74,441,628,766 as of June 30, 2016. The registrant’s class A common stock is not 

listed on a national securities exchange or traded in an organized over-the-counter market, but each share of the registrant’s class A common stock is convertible into one share of the 
registrant’s class B common stock.

As of February 8, 2017, there were 180,802,416 outstanding shares of class A common stock and 689,227,227 outstanding shares of class B common stock.

Portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement for its annual meeting of shareowners scheduled for May 4, 2017 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this report.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC.
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

Item 1.

Business

Overview
Business Strategy
Technology
Reporting Segments and Products & Services
Sustainability
Community
Reputation
Employees
Safety
Competition
Competitive Strengths
Government Regulation
Where You Can Find More Information

Item 1A. Risk Factors
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
Item 2.

Properties

Operating Facilities
Fleet

Item 3.
Item 4.

Legal Proceedings
Mine Safety Disclosures

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

PART II

Shareowner Return Performance Graph

Item 6.
Item 7.

Selected Financial Data
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview
Items Affecting Comparability
U.S. Domestic Package Operations
International Package Operations
Supply Chain & Freight Operations
Operating Expenses
Investment Income and Interest Expense
Income Tax Expense
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Collective Bargaining Agreements
New Accounting Pronouncements
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Item 8.
Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
Item 9.
Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Item 9B. Other Information

PART III

Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
Item 11.
Item 12.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
Item 14.

Executive Compensation
Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

Item 15.

Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

PART IV

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136

Cautionary Statement About Forward-Looking Statements

PART I

This report includes certain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform 

Act of 1995. Statements in the future tense, and all statements accompanied by terms such as “believe,” “project,” “expect,” 
“estimate,” “assume,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “target,” “plan,” and variations thereof and similar terms are intended to be 
forward-looking statements. We intend that all forward-looking statements we make will be subject to safe harbor protection of 
the federal securities laws pursuant to Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange 
Act of 1934.

Our disclosure and analysis in this report, in our Annual Report to Shareholders and in our other filings with the 
Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) contain forward-looking statements regarding our intent, belief and current 
expectations about our strategic direction, prospects and future results. From time to time, we also provide forward-looking 
statements in other materials we release as well as oral forward-looking statements. Such statements give our current 
expectations or forecasts of future events; they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Management believes that 
these forward-looking statements are reasonable as and when made. However, caution should be taken not to place undue 
reliance on any such forward-looking statements because such statements speak only as of the date when made.

Forward-looking statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ 
materially from our historical experience and our present expectations or anticipated results. These risks and uncertainties are 
described in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” and may also be described from time to time in our future reports filed with the 
SEC. You should consider the limitations on, and risks associated with, forward-looking statements and not unduly rely on the 
accuracy of predictions contained in such forward-looking statements. We do not undertake any obligation to update forward-
looking statements to reflect events, circumstances, changes in expectations or the occurrence of unanticipated events after the 
date of those statements.

Item 1.  Business

Overview

United Parcel Service, Inc. (“UPS”) was founded in 1907 as a private messenger and delivery service in Seattle, 
Washington. Today, we are the world’s largest package delivery company, a leader in the U.S. less-than-truckload industry and 
the premier provider of global supply chain management solutions. We deliver packages each business day for 1.6 million 
shipping customers to 8.7 million receivers ("consignees") in over 220 countries and territories. In 2016, we delivered an 
average of 19.1 million pieces per day, or a total of 4.9 billion packages. Total revenue in 2016 was $60.9 billion.

We serve the global market for logistics services, which include transportation, distribution, contract logistics, ground 

freight, ocean freight, air freight, customs brokerage, insurance and financing. We have three reportable segments: U.S. 
Domestic Package, International Package and Supply Chain & Freight, all of which are described below. For financial 
information concerning our reportable segments and geographic regions, refer to note 12 of our consolidated financial 
statements.

Business Strategy

Our market strategy is to provide customers with advanced logistics solutions made possible by a broad portfolio of 
differentiated services and capabilities expertly assembled and integrated into our customers’ businesses. This approach, 
supported by our efficient and globally balanced multimodal network, enables us to deliver value to our customers and thereby 
build lasting partnerships with them. 

Customers leverage our broad portfolio of logistics capabilities; balanced global presence in North America, Europe, 
Middle East, Africa, Asia Pacific and Latin America; reliability; industry-leading technologies; and solutions expertise for 
competitive advantage in markets where they choose to compete. We prudently invest to expand our integrated global network 
and service portfolio. 

Technology investments create user-friendly shipping, e-commerce, logistics management and visibility tools for our 
customers, while supporting our ongoing effort to increase operational efficiencies. We actively monitor and invest to gain 
insights into emerging technologies such as additive manufacturing (3D printing), route and network optimization tools, 
autonomous vehicles, and advanced product monitoring and tracking functionality. In 2016, we invested in Deliv, a same-day 
retail delivery startup, and Optoro, a reverse logistics firm.     

1

 
In order to meet demand, we are increasing capital expenditures to expand network capacity and increase productivity by 

automating existing facilities. We are making strategic investments in our top 30 processing hubs as well as adding new 
facilities to our network.  In 2016, we announced investments of $400 million to build a new 1.2 million square foot regional 
processing facility in Atlanta, Georgia, $196 million to increase the processing capacity of our Jacksonville, Florida hub by 
33%, and $175 million to double the processing capacity of our Columbus, Ohio hub.  

Our service portfolio and investments have produced among the best return on invested capital and operating margins in 

the industry. We have a long history of sound financial management and our consolidated balance sheet reflects financial 
strength that few companies can match. Cash generation is a significant strength of UPS, giving us strong capacity to service 
our obligations and allowing for distributions to shareowners, reinvestment in our business and the pursuit of growth 
opportunities.

We enable and are the beneficiaries of the following trends:

Expansion of Global Trade

We continue to invest to expand in both developed and emerging international markets. In Europe, we have committed to 

nearly $2 billion of capital investment to expand our infrastructure to meet the growing demand for cross-border commerce. 
The enhancements to our European ground network are designed to ensure that we provide fast, reliable service to customers 
moving goods across country borders.  

Emerging market opportunities continue to expand. Over the next ten years, these markets are expected to represent the 

majority of global GDP growth and an increasing portion of global trade. Emerging markets are a focus of investment and 
growth for our current customers and will be a source of our next generation of customers. To take advantage of these 
opportunities, we continue to make long-term investments in markets where our customers are growing. Over the past ten 
years, we have established a strong market presence in three developing markets: China, Poland and Turkey. India, along with 
select countries in the Middle East, Latin America, Africa and Eastern Europe are also becoming increasingly important to us.

Transcontinental and cross-border trade are predicted to grow faster than U.S. and global gross domestic production for 
the foreseeable future. As a result, global economies are becoming more inter-connected and dependent on foreign trade. We 
are committed to continued growth in both international logistics and express services. We are expanding our aircraft fleet 
beginning in 2017 to include an additional 14 Boeing 747-8s.

UPS plays an important role in both global and regional trade and is well positioned to take advantage of trade growth, 

wherever it occurs. Our global presence and productivity enhancing technologies allow customers to expand into new markets. 
We advocate for the expansion of free trade, including the passage of regional trade pacts and the removal of trade barriers. 

These trends underscore why we believe our international business remains a catalyst for future profitable growth.

e-Commerce Growth in Retail Sectors

E-commerce continues to drive significant growth in package delivery volume. Our integrated network puts us in an ideal 

position to capitalize on the shift towards residential deliveries. We continue to create new services, supported by our 
technology, that complement traditional UPS premium home delivery services and address the needs of e-commerce shippers 
and consignees. We offer cost-effective solutions such as UPS SurePost, for U.S. domestic shipments, and UPS i-parcel, for a 
low-cost deferred cross border solution, where economy takes precedence over speed. We also offer feature-rich solutions, such 
as UPS My Choice, a service that provides more than 30 million members with visibility and control of their inbound 
shipments. The power of UPS My Choice has been enhanced over the past year with the addition of UPS Follow My Delivery 
for time-sensitive shipments. UPS Follow My Delivery offers map-based tracking from a package's delivery departure to a UPS 
My Choice member's residence.  

UPS My Choice members have the added flexibility to direct packages to UPS Access Point locations when they will not 

be home to accept a delivery. UPS Access Point locations are convenient places – such as The UPS Store and other local 
businesses – that offer easy package drop-off and pick-up. With evening and weekend hours, UPS Access Point locations better 
fit some consumers’ schedules. Merchants in 50 origin countries and territories can ship directly to UPS Access Point locations 
in 18 destination countries, giving merchants and consumers greater control over package deliveries. 

2

Industry-focused Solutions and Offerings

We offer differentiated value propositions in several segments, including aerospace, automotive, industrial manufacturing, 

retail, professional and consumer services, healthcare and high-tech.

Our understanding of macro and industry trends in each market allows us to develop commercial insights for our 
customers. These insights are incorporated into our sales and solutions process and are shared with customers through direct 
engagement, industry forums and publications. We help customers achieve their business objectives and improve their 
performance through our value-added solutions.  

The combination of rising global demand for healthcare, product innovations (many of which are time and temperature 
sensitive), increasing regulatory oversight and downward reimbursement pressure is creating opportunities and challenges for 
healthcare and life sciences firms. In 2016, we expanded our healthcare capabilities by acquiring Maze 1 Limited ("Marken"), a 
global provider of supply chain solutions to the life sciences industry, primarily serving the clinical trials logistics space. 
Clinical trials are subject to strict regulatory compliance, require temperature-controlled logistics services and are typically 
global in reach. Marken operates a global network of clinical supply chain services to meet this need. The acquisition of 
Marken follows multiple acquisitions that have expanded our healthcare logistics services portfolio in recent years. With over 
seven million square feet of healthcare logistics and distribution facilities around the world and further growth planned for the 
future, we are well-positioned to meet our customers' increasingly complex requirements. 

Rapid technology innovation and growing worldwide demand for electronics are driving change in the already-dynamic 
high-tech industry. UPS's global transportation network and integrated technology solutions enable high-tech customers to get 
their products to market faster, improve customer service and increase revenue. We offer global sourcing and a significant 
amount of repair space to leverage one of the largest networks of post-sales facilities in the world. With more than 950 field 
stocking locations in over 110 countries, we help high-tech companies identify better ways to manage inventories and meet 
their crucial logistics needs. Our experience and global capabilities make us a strong partner in the high-tech industry.

Logistics Outsourcing

Outsourcing supply chain management is becoming more prevalent as customers increasingly view professional 
management and operation of their supply chains as a strategic advantage. This trend enables companies to focus on what they 
do best. We can meet our customers’ needs for outsourced logistics with our global capabilities in customized forwarding, 
transportation, warehousing, distribution, delivery and post-sales services. 

3

Technology

Technology powers logistics, forms the foundation of our reliability and allows us to enhance the customer experience. 

Recent developments that improve our operational efficiency, flexibility, reliability and customer experience include:

•  Completed Phase I of U.S. deployment of our On Road Integrated Optimization and Navigation system ("ORION"). 
ORION employs advanced algorithms to determine the optimal route for each delivery, while meeting service 
commitments. Despite continuing growth in package volume and delivery stops, ORION is helping bend the cost 
curve by limiting miles driven, which results in fuel and productivity savings. For instance, average daily volume and 
delivery stops increased 4.1% and 4.4%, respectively, in our U.S. domestic package operations in 2016, while average 
daily package miles driven only increased 0.2%. 

•  Expanded investment in new automated facilities. We are also automating our largest hubs, package centers and small 

sorts globally. This effort will reduce package handling in the network while improving network flexibility by 
optimizing network flows and eliminating the need for complex sort knowledge. 

•  Continued rollout of telematics to our international delivery fleet. Telematics helps UPS determine a vehicles' 

performance and condition by capturing data on more than 200 operating elements. Together, improved data and 
driver coaching help reduce fuel consumption, emissions and maintenance costs while improving driver safety. By the 
end of 2016, telematics was installed in more than 86,000 vehicles. 

We bring industry-leading UPS technology to our customers who, in turn, realize increased productivity, greater control 

of their supply chains and improved customer experience when they integrate with our systems. Customers benefit through 
offerings such as:

Shipping

WorldShip™, which is our flagship desktop shipping application, provides middle-market and large customers with 

robust shipping capabilities. Customers can create custom labels, set up shipment alerts, create and upload customs 
documentation, track and export shipments, create reports and integrate with their enterprise resource planning and accounting 
systems to streamline shipping with real-time connectivity. 

UPS marketplace shipping, which integrates www.ups.com with eBay® , Amazon®, Etsy® and BigCommerce®, allows 

marketplace sellers to easily ship their orders via www.ups.com or WorldShip™. UPS marketplace shipping provides simplified 
shipment processing, multiple payment options (including PayPal™), order and shipment history and automatic tracking 
updates.

Tracking and Visibility

UPS Quantum View® helps customers better manage shipments, facilitate tracking, allow for inbound volume planning, 
manage third-party shipping costs and automatically notify customers of incoming shipments. With visibility into transit times 
and delivery confirmations, customers can speed up their revenue cycle and collect accounts receivable more quickly while 
improving customer service. 

International Trade Tools 

UPS Paperless™ solutions allow customers to self-enroll in UPS Paperless™ Invoice and upload shipping documents. 

These solutions enable customers to electronically transmit a commercial invoice, packing list or their own customs documents 
when shipping internationally. This eliminates redundant data entry and errors, while reducing customs delays and paper waste. 

UPS TradeAbility® tools help customers effectively and confidently manage the movement of goods internationally in a 

timely, efficient and compliant manner.

Billing 

The UPS Billing Center, a secure location for customers to view, download, manage and pay their UPS invoices, helps 

customers accelerate billing and payment processes. Customers can assign privileges with administrative controls, manage 
multiple accounts and create custom reports using a single simple interface. 

Integration

The UPS Developer Kit, which is comprised of multiple Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), helps customers 
streamline and automate their internal business processes. The UPS Developer Kit APIs allow customers to integrate a wide 
range of UPS functionality into their business systems and websites such as address validation, shipment scheduling, selection 
of shipping service levels, tracking and much more.  

4

Business-to-Consumer

UPS My Choice®, which focuses on the consignee, has transformed the residential delivery experience. Receivers can 

direct the timing and delivery instructions for their packages using their computer, mobile devices or Facebook™ app. This 
innovative service is powered by the complex integration of real-time route optimization and other technologies within our 
delivery network.  

The Global Locator on www.ups.com was enhanced to give customers faster and simpler access to UPS drop-off and 

pick-up locations, including new UPS Access Point sites. The Global Locator has a new search field with updated filters, 
location images and location-specific promotions. Customers can also provide online feedback, e-mail search results, save 
favorite locations and access recent searches.

Mobile 

UPS Mobile, which includes the mobile website, m.ups.com, and apps for iPhone®, iPad® and Android devices, is 
readily available for our customers in over 80 countries. Customers can track, ship, find UPS locations, manage UPS My 
Choice shipments and receive shipment notifications on their mobile devices. The UPS Mobile apps and website were 
enhanced with new mobile shipping options that make it easier to create or print a label from a mobile device. In 2016, the app 
was deployed in an additional 39 countries, for a total of 55 countries.  

Reporting Segments and Products & Services

Global Small Package

Our global small package operations provide time-definite delivery services for express letters, documents, small 
packages and palletized freight via air and ground services. We serve more than 220 countries and territories around the world 
along with domestic delivery service within 50 countries. We handle packages that weigh up to 150 pounds and are up to 165 
inches in combined length and girth as well as palletized shipments weighing more than 150 pounds. All of our package 
services are supported by numerous shipping, visibility and billing technologies.

We handle all levels of service (air, ground, domestic, international, commercial, residential) through one global 
integrated pick-up and delivery network. All packages are commingled within our network, except when necessary to meet 
their specific service commitments. This enables one UPS driver to pick up customers’ shipments for any of our services at the 
same scheduled time each day. Compared to companies with single service network designs, our integrated network uniquely 
provides operational and capital efficiencies while being more environmentally-friendly.

We offer same-day pick-up of air and ground packages upon request. Customers can schedule pick-ups for one to five 

days a week, based on their specific needs. Additionally, our wholly-owned and partnered global network offers more than 
150,000 entry points where customers can tender a package to us at a location or time convenient to them. This combined 
network includes UPS drivers who can accept packages provided to them, UPS drop boxes, UPS Access Point locations, The 
UPS Store locations, authorized shipping outlets and commercial counters, alliance locations and customer centers attached to 
UPS facilities. Some of these locations offer a full array of services including pick-up, delivery and packing options, while 
others are drop-off locations only. 

The growth of online shopping has increased our customers’ needs for efficient and reliable returns, resulting in our 
development of a robust selection of returns services that are available in more than 145 countries. Options vary based on 
customer needs and country, and range from cost-effective solutions such as UPS Returns, to more-specialized services such as 
UPS Returns Exchange. UPS Returns enables shippers to provide their customers with a return shipping label, while UPS 
Returns Exchange simplifies product exchanges by delivering a replacement item and picking up a return item in the same stop, 
and assisting with the re-packaging process.

We operate one of the largest airlines in the world, with global operations centered at our Worldport hub in Louisville, 

Kentucky. Worldport sort capacity, currently at 416,000 packages per hour, has expanded over the years due to volume growth 
and a centralization effort. Our European air hub is located in Cologne, Germany, and we maintain Asia-Pacific air hubs in 
Shanghai, China and Shenzhen, China and Hong Kong. Our regional air hub in Canada is located in Hamilton, Ontario, and our 
regional air hub for Latin America and the Caribbean is in Miami, Florida.

In the U.S., Worldport is supported by our regional air hubs in Columbia, South Carolina; Dallas, Texas; Ontario, 

California; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Rockford, Illinois. This network design allows for cost-effective package 
processing in our most technology-enabled facilities, which allow us to use fewer, larger and more fuel-efficient aircraft. Our 
U.S. ground fleet serves all business and residential zip codes in the contiguous U.S.  

5

U.S. Domestic Package Reporting Segment

We are a leader in time-definite, money-back guaranteed, small package delivery services in the U.S. We offer a full 

spectrum of U.S. domestic guaranteed ground and air package transportation services. 

•  Customers can select from same day, next day, two day and three day delivery alternatives. Many of these services 

offer options that enable customers to specify a time-of-day guarantee for their delivery (e.g., by 8:00 AM, 10:30 AM, 
noon, end of day, etc.).

•  We expanded UPS Next Day Air Early (previously known as "UPS Next Day Air Early AM") service to over 12,000 
zip codes in two phases where previously only an end-of-day guarantee was available. This enhancement provides 
shippers and their customers the option of earlier commitment times from 8:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. and enlarges our 
early delivery coverage. 

•  Customers can also leverage our extensive ground network to ship using our day-definite guaranteed ground service 
that serves every U.S. business and residential address. We deliver more ground packages than any other carrier, with 
average daily package volume of 13.5 million in the U.S., most within one to three business days.

•  We also offer UPS SurePost, an economy residential ground service for customers with non-urgent, lightweight 

residential shipments. UPS SurePost is a contractual residential ground service that combines the consistency and 
reliability of the UPS Ground network with final delivery often provided by the U.S. Postal Service.

International Package Reporting Segment

Our International Package reporting segment includes small package operations in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Canada and 
Latin America, the Indian sub-continent, the Middle East and Africa. We offer a wide selection of guaranteed day and time-
definite international shipping services. We offer more guaranteed time-definite express options (Express Plus, Express and 
Express Saver) than any other carrier.

• 

In 2016, we undertook significant country expansions of Express time-definite portfolios:

We expanded our UPS Worldwide Express mid-day service to 52 new countries across all regions. This 
service is now available in 118 countries.

We expanded our UPS Worldwide Express Plus morning delivery service to 28 new countries and expanded 
our footprint in 25 existing markets. This service is now available in 56 countries.

• 

• 

For international shipments that do not require Express services, UPS Worldwide Expedited offers a reliable, deferred, 
guaranteed day-definite service option. The service is available from more than 80 origin countries to more than 220 
countries and territories.  

For cross-border ground package delivery, we offer UPS Standard delivery services within Europe, between the U.S. 
and Canada and between the U.S. and Mexico.

•  UPS Worldwide Express Freight provides guaranteed, day-definite delivery for palletized shipments over 150 pounds.  

In 2016, we expanded services to nine new emerging market countries. UPS Worldwide Express Freight is now 
available from 66 origin countries to 64 destination countries.

Europe, our largest region outside of the U.S., accounts for approximately half of international revenue and is one of the 
primary drivers of our growth. To accommodate the strong potential for growth in small package exports, we made a series of 
enhancements to our ground network that helps reduce transit time for cross-border shipments by one to two days and will 
result in improved exporting opportunities for customers in Europe. These expansions and enhancements are part of our 
commitment to invest nearly $2 billion in our European infrastructure by 2019. 

Asia-Pacific remains a strategic market due to growth rates in intra-Asia trade and the expanding Chinese economy. To 
capitalize on these opportunities, we are bringing faster time-in-transit to customers focused on intra-Asia trade, and reducing 
transit days from Asia to the U.S. and Europe. Through added flight frequencies, we provide our customers the ability to ship 
next day to more places in the U.S. and Europe, guaranteed, than any other express carrier. We serve more than 40 Asia-Pacific 
countries and territories through more than two dozen alliances with local delivery companies that supplement company-owned 
operations.  

The investments we are making to expand our network and improve service levels have already created a strong 

foundation, contributing to 30% incremental profit growth over the last two years. Excluding any impacts from foreign 
currency, we expect this positive momentum in our core International business model to continue going forward. 

6

Supply Chain & Freight Reporting Segment

The Supply Chain & Freight reporting segment consists of our forwarding and logistics services, truckload freight 
brokerage, UPS Freight and our financial offerings through UPS Capital. Supply chain complexity creates demand for a global 
service offering that incorporates transportation, distribution and international trade and brokerage services, with 
complementary financial and information services. Outsourcing of non-core logistics activity is a strategy more and more 
companies are pursuing. With increased competition and growth opportunities in new markets, businesses require flexible and 
responsive supply chains to support their business strategies. We meet this demand by offering a broad array of supply chain 
services in over 195 countries and territories.  

Freight Forwarding

We are one of the largest U.S. domestic air freight carriers and among the top international air freight forwarders globally. 

We offer a portfolio of guaranteed and non-guaranteed global air freight services. Additionally, as one of the world’s leading 
non-vessel operating common carriers, we provide ocean freight full-container load, less-than-container load and multimodal 
transportation services between most major ports around the world.

Truckload Freight Brokerage (Coyote)

In 2015, we acquired Coyote Logistics Midco, Inc ("Coyote"), a U.S.-based truckload freight brokerage company. We 

successfully integrated this large-scale truckload freight brokerage and transportation management services operation into our 
Supply Chain & Freight reporting segment, and have seen significant synergies in the areas of purchased transportation, 
backhaul utilization, cross-selling to customers, technology systems and industry best practices. Coyote's access to our UPS 
fleet combined with its broad carrier network has created a customized capacity solution for all markets, customers and 
situations. Moreover, Coyote has been able to cross-sell UPS services (such as air freight, customs brokerage and global freight 
forwarding) to its customer base.   

Global Logistics and Distribution

UPS Logistics offers the following services:

•  We provide value-added distribution services to customers through our global network of company-owned and leased 

warehouse facilities. 

•  UPS Post Sales enables customers and end users to support equipment and devices after they have been delivered or 
installed in the field. We leverage our global network of over 950 field stocking locations ("FSL") to ensure the right 
parts are in the right place, at the right time. Our network of FSLs span more than 110 countries around the globe. 

•  UPS Mail Innovations offers an efficient, cost-effective method for sending lightweight parcels and flat mail to global 
addresses from the U.S. We pick up customers' domestic and international mail and then sort, post, manifest and 
expedite the secured mail containers to the destination postal service for last-mile delivery. 

•  UPS Express Critical provides urgent, secure transportation for time-sensitive and high-value goods. The service is 
designed to complement UPS's core parcel and air freight services. It includes same-day, next-flight-out and door-to-
door ground services, including specialized charter and hand-carry services for both light and heavyweight shipments. 

• 

In 2016, we expanded our healthcare capabilities by acquiring Marken, a global provider of supply chain solutions to 
the life sciences industry, primarily serving the clinical trials logistics space. Clinical trials are subject to strict 
regulatory compliance, require temperature-controlled logistics services and are typically global in reach. Marken 
operates a global network of clinical supply chain services to meet the increasingly complex demands of its clients. 
The acquisition of Marken follows multiple acquisitions that have expanded our healthcare logistics services portfolio. 

UPS Freight

UPS Freight offers regional, inter-regional and long-haul less-than-truckload ("LTL") services, as well as full truckload 
services, in all 50 states, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Mexico. UPS Freight provides reliable LTL 
service backed by a day-definite, on-time guarantee at no additional cost. Additionally, user-friendly shipping, visibility and 
billing technology offerings including UPS WorldShip®, Quantum View and UPS Billing Center, allow freight customers to 
create electronic bills of lading, monitor shipment progress and reconcile shipping charges.

Customs Brokerage

We are among the world’s largest customs brokers by both the number of shipments processed annually and by the 
number of dedicated brokerage employees worldwide. We provide our customers with customs clearance, trade management 
and international trade consulting services.

7

UPS Capital

UPS Capital provides financial, insurance and payment services to help protect companies from risk and leverage cash in 

their supply chains. With services available in over 21 countries, UPS Capital and its affiliates support all aspects of the order-
to-cash cycle, including financing inventory warehoused overseas, insuring shipments and providing payment solutions. The 
UPS Capital suite of cargo and credit insurance, trade finance and payment solutions is designed to help customers protect their 
assets and keep their businesses running smoothly. With the acquisitions of Parcel Pro™ and the Insured Parcel Services 
business of G4S International Logistics in 2015, UPS Capital now offers insured transportation of high-value goods including 
loose stones, finished jewelry and wristwatches.

Sustainability

Our business and corporate responsibility strategies pursue a common interest to increase the vitality and environmental 
sustainability of the global economy by aggregating the shipping activity of millions of businesses and individuals worldwide 
into a single, highly efficient logistics network. This provides benefits to:

•  UPS, by ensuring strong demand for our services.

•  The economy, by enabling global commerce and making global supply chains more efficient and less expensive.

•  The environment, by enabling our global customers to leverage UPS’s network efficiency and thereby reduce the 

greenhouse gas emissions intensity of their supply chains.

•  Communities, by connecting individuals to global markets and providing the economic empowerment that can help 

facilitate positive social change. 

We pursue sustainable business practices worldwide through operational efficiency, fleet and fuel advances, facility 
engineering projects and conservation-enabling technology and service offerings. We help our customers do the same. We 
consider stakeholder engagement an essential aspect of corporate governance and regularly collaborate with a diverse set of 
global stakeholders on sustainability issues. Our most material global sustainability issues primarily involve our energy use, 
emissions and workplace policies. UPS established an enterprise-wide target to reduce the carbon intensity of our operations by 
20% by 2020, using 2007 as a baseline. As of 2015, we achieved a 14.5% reduction toward this goal as a result of successfully 
executing greenhouse gas reduction strategies in our ground, air and facility operations.    

Sustainability highlights in 2016 include:

•  One of Corporate Responsibility’s “100 Best Corporate Citizens” for the 7th consecutive year.

•  Recognized by Ethisphere Institute as one of the “World’s Most Ethical Companies” for the 10th consecutive year.

•  Recognized as a constituent of the Dow Jones Sustainability North America Index for the 12th consecutive year; in 

addition, we were included on the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index for the 4th consecutive year.

•  Recognized as a constituent of the NASDAQ OMX Global Sustainability Index for the 7th consecutive year.

•  Recognized at the Leadership level of CDP's climate performance review.

• 

Included for the 3rd consecutive time on Points of Light's Civic 50, which recognizes the most community-minded 
companies in the US. 

More information on how we address our most significant sustainability issues is available in the UPS Corporate 

Sustainability Report and on the UPS Sustainability website at www.ups.com/sustainability.

8

Community

We believe that strong communities are vital to the success of our company. By combining our philanthropy with the 

volunteer time and talents of our employees, we help drive positive change for organizations and communities in need across 
the globe. The highlights of our corporate citizenship efforts in 2016 include:

•  Local non-profits around the world received nearly 2.7 million hours of volunteer service from our employees 

participating in our Neighbor-to-Neighbor program. 

•  The UPS Foundation, which oversees corporate citizenship efforts for the company, invested nearly $117 million in 
donations of both cash and in-kind services to global causes, primarily in four focus areas—community safety, 
environmental sustainability, diversity and volunteerism.

•  Our employees, both active and retired, contributed approximately $57 million to United Way, which was matched by 

a corporate contribution of nearly $9 million.  

•  Through The UPS Foundation we have the opportunity to support our global communities to offset carbon, support 

clean water, reduce poverty and help individuals sustain their lives through the planting of trees. The UPS Global 
Forestry Initiative, which began in 2013, is the signature program of The UPS Foundation’s Environmental Focus 
area. By the end of 2016, we have supported the planting of seven million trees worldwide. 

•  We continued to aid communities impacted by disasters through our UPS Humanitarian Relief and Resilience 

program, by providing our logistics expertise, skilled volunteers, capacity building support and in-kind services. In 
2016, we coordinated more than 450 humanitarian relief shipments across 53 countries and provided funding and 
logistics support to strengthen long-term recovery efforts of communities impacted by over 20 world disasters 
including the Global Refugee Crisis, Hurricane Matthew and the Japan Earthquake.  

•  Nearly 8,500 teenagers and novice drivers in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Germany, Mexico and China participated in 
UPS Road Code. This safety program for new drivers features our employees as instructors – a role where they share 
driving knowledge and safety tips amassed over our long history of safe driving.

Reputation

Great brands require connecting with customers, investors and other stakeholders with honesty and transparency. In 
working to develop these connections, we regularly receive high accolades from independent brand and reputation evaluations.  

In 2016, we continued to be ranked highly by the following:

•  Forbes’ 2016 ranking of "The World's Most Valued Brands", 

•  Interbrand’s "Best Global Brands,2016",

•  2016 FORTUNE Magazine's list of "World's Most Admired Companies",

•  2016 Gartner Magic Quadrant for the Third-Party Logistics Leader, Worldwide, and

•  WPP's BrandZ "Top 100 Most Valuable Global Brands" 2016 survey by Millward Brown Optimor. 

Employees

The strength of our company is our people, working together with a common purpose. We had more than 434,000 
employees (excluding temporary seasonal employees) as of December 31, 2016, of which 355,000 are in the U.S. and 79,000 
are located internationally. Our global workforce includes approximately 78,000 management employees (38% of whom are 
part-time) and 356,000 hourly employees (47% of whom are part-time).  

As of December 31, 2016, we had approximately 268,000 employees employed under a national master agreement and 
various supplemental agreements with local unions affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (“Teamsters”). 
During 2014, the Teamsters ratified a new national master agreement with UPS that will expire on July 31, 2018. 

We have approximately 2,600 pilots who are employed under a collective bargaining agreement with the Independent 

Pilots Association ("IPA"), which became amendable at the end of 2011. On August 31, 2016, the IPA members voted to ratify 
a new five-year labor contract. Terms of the agreement became effective September 1, 2016 and run through September 1, 
2021. The economic provisions in the agreement included pay increases, signing bonuses and enhanced pension benefits.

Our airline mechanics are covered by a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 2727, which became 
amendable November 1, 2013. We are currently in negotiations with Teamsters Local 2727. In addition, approximately 3,000 of 
our auto and maintenance mechanics who are not employed under agreements with the Teamsters are employed under 
collective bargaining agreements with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (“IAM”) that will 
expire on July 31, 2019.

9

The experience of our management team continues to be an organizational strength. Nearly 34% of our full-time 

managers have more than 20 years of service with UPS.

We believe that our relations with our employees are good. We periodically survey all our employees to determine their 

level of job satisfaction. Areas of concern receive management attention as we strive to keep UPS the employer-of-choice 
among our employees. We consistently receive numerous awards and wide recognition as an employer-of-choice, resulting in 
part from our emphasis on diversity and corporate citizenship.

Safety

Health, Wellness and Safety are core values at UPS and an enduring belief that the well-being of our people, business 

partners and the general public is of utmost importance. We train our people to recognize hazards, mitigate risk and avoid 
injury to themselves and others in all aspects of their work. We do not tolerate unsafe work practices.

We recognize employees for health, wellness, and safety accomplishments. We provide education programs which 

promote the health and wellness of employees, their families and the safety of our global operations. We are committed to 
fostering the most effective safety practices in our work environment. By maintaining our high safety standards, we contribute 
to the well-being of our people, the company and the communities we serve.

Competition

UPS is a global leader in logistics. We offer a broad array of services in the package and freight delivery industry and, 

therefore, compete with many different local, regional, national and international logistics providers. Our competitors include 
worldwide postal services, various motor carriers, express companies, freight forwarders, air couriers and others, including 
startups that combine technology with crowdsourcing to focus on local market needs. Through our supply chain service 
offerings, we compete with a number of providers in the supply chain, financial services and information technology industries.

Competitive Strengths

Our competitive strengths include:

Global Network.    We believe that our integrated global ground and air network is the most extensive in the industry. We 
provide all types of package service (air, ground, domestic, international, commercial and residential) through a single pick-up 
and delivery service network. We also have extensive air freight, ocean freight, ground freight and logistics networks that 
provide additional capabilities in the global transportation and logistics market.  

Our sophisticated engineering systems allow us to optimize our network efficiency and asset utilization on a daily basis. 

This unique, integrated global business model creates consistent and superior returns.

Global Presence.   We serve more than 220 countries and territories around the world. We have a significant presence in 

all of the world’s major economies.

Leading-edge Technology.    We are a global leader in developing technology that helps our customers optimize their 

shipping and logistics business processes to lower costs, improve service and increase efficiency.

Technology powers virtually every service we offer and every operation we perform. Our technology offerings are driven 

by our customers’ needs. We offer a variety of online service options that enable our customers to integrate UPS functionality 
into their own businesses not only to send, manage and track their shipments conveniently, but also to provide their customers 
with better information services. We provide the infrastructure for an Internet presence that extends to tens of thousands of 
customers who have integrated UPS tools directly into their own websites.

Broad Portfolio of Services.    Our portfolio of services enables customers to choose the delivery option that is most 

appropriate for their requirements. Increasingly, our customers benefit from business solutions that integrate many UPS 
services in addition to package delivery. For example, our supply chain services—such as freight forwarding, customs 
brokerage, order fulfillment and returns management—help improve the efficiency of the supply chain management process.

Customer Relationships.    We focus on building and maintaining long-term customer relationships. We serve 1.6 million 

pickup customers and 8.7 million delivery customers daily. Cross-selling small package, supply chain and freight services 
across our customer base is an important growth mechanism for UPS.

10

Brand Equity.    We have built a leading and trusted brand that stands for quality service, reliability and service 

innovation. The distinctive appearance of our vehicles and the professional courtesy of our drivers are major contributors to our 
brand equity.

Distinctive Culture.    We believe that the dedication of our employees results in large part from our distinctive 
“employee-owner” concept. Our employee stock ownership tradition dates from 1927, when our founders, who believed that 
employee stock ownership was a vital foundation for successful business, first offered stock to employees. To encourage 
employee stock ownership, we maintain several stock-based compensation programs.

Our long-standing policy of “promotion from within” complements our tradition of employee ownership, and this policy 
reduces the need for us to hire managers and executive officers from outside UPS. The majority of our management team began 
their careers as full-time or part-time hourly UPS employees, and have spent their entire careers with us. Many of our executive 
officers have more than 30 years of service with UPS and have accumulated a meaningful ownership stake in our company. 
Therefore, our executive officers have a strong incentive to effectively manage UPS, which benefits all of our shareowners.

Financial Strength.    Our financial strength gives us the resources to achieve global scale; to invest in employee 

development, technology, transportation equipment and facilities; to pursue strategic opportunities that facilitate our growth; to 
service our obligations; and to return value to our shareowners in the form of dividends, share repurchases and steady share 
growth.

Government Regulation

We are subject to numerous laws and regulations in connection with our package and non-package businesses in the 

countries in which we operate. Certain of these laws and regulations are summarized below.

Air Operations

The U.S. Department of Transportation (“DOT”), the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) and the U.S. Department 

of Homeland Security, through the Transportation Security Administration (“TSA”), have regulatory authority over United 
Parcel Service Co.’s (“UPS Airlines’”) air transportation services. The Federal Aviation Act of 1958, as amended, is the 
statutory basis for DOT and FAA authority and the Aviation and Transportation Security Act of 2001, as amended, is the basis 
for TSA aviation security authority.

The DOT’s authority primarily relates to economic aspects of air transportation, such as insurance requirements, 
discriminatory pricing, non-competitive practices, interlocking relations and cooperative agreements. The DOT also regulates, 
subject to the authority of the President of the United States, international routes, fares, rates and practices, and is authorized to 
investigate and take action against discriminatory treatment of U.S. air carriers abroad. International operating rights for U.S. 
airlines are usually subject to bilateral agreements between the U.S. and foreign governments or, in the absence of such 
agreements, by principles of reciprocity. We are also subject to current and potential aviation regulations imposed by foreign 
governments in the countries in which we operate, including registration and license requirements and security regulations. 
UPS Airlines has international route operating rights granted by the DOT and we may apply for additional authorities when 
those operating rights are available and are required for the efficient operation of our international network. The efficiency and 
flexibility of our international air transportation network is dependent on DOT and foreign government regulations and 
operating restrictions.

The FAA’s authority primarily relates to safety aspects of air transportation, including aircraft operating procedures, 

transportation of hazardous materials, record keeping standards and maintenance activities and personnel. In 1988, the FAA 
granted us an operating certificate, which remains in effect so long as we meet the safety and operational requirements of the 
applicable FAA regulations. In addition, we are subject to non-U.S. government regulation of aviation rights involving non-
U.S. jurisdictions and non-U.S. customs regulation.

UPS aircraft maintenance programs and procedures, including aircraft inspection and repair at periodic intervals, are 
approved for all aircraft under FAA regulations. The future cost of repairs pursuant to these programs may fluctuate according 
to aircraft condition, age and the enactment of additional FAA regulatory requirements.

The TSA regulates various security aspects of air cargo transportation in a manner consistent with the TSA mission 
statement to “protect the Nation’s transportation systems to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce.” UPS 
Airlines, and specified airport and off-airport locations, are regulated under TSA regulations applicable to the transportation of 
cargo in an air network. In addition, personnel, facilities and procedures involved in air cargo transportation must comply with 
TSA regulations.

11

UPS Airlines, along with a number of other domestic airlines, participates in the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (“CRAF”) 
program. Our participation in the CRAF program allows the U.S. Department of Defense (“DOD”) to requisition specified UPS 
Airlines wide-body aircraft for military use during a national defense emergency. The DOD compensates us for the use of 
aircraft under the CRAF program. In addition, participation in CRAF entitles UPS Airlines to bid for military cargo charter 
operations.

Ground Operations

Our ground transportation of packages in the U.S. is subject to regulation by the DOT and its agency, the Federal Motor 

Carrier Safety Administration (the “FMCSA”) and the states’ jurisdiction with respect to the regulation of operations, safety, 
insurance and hazardous materials. We also must comply with the safety and fitness regulations promulgated by the FMCSA, 
including those relating to drug and alcohol testing and hours of service for drivers. We are subject to similar regulation in 
many non-U.S. jurisdictions.

The Postal Reorganization Act of 1970 created the U.S. Postal Service as an independent establishment of the executive 
branch of the federal government, and created the Postal Rate Commission, an independent agency, to recommend postal rates. 
The Postal Accountability and Enhancement Act of 2006 amended the 1970 Act to give the re-named Postal Regulatory 
Commission revised oversight authority over many aspects of the Postal Service, including postal rates, product offerings and 
service standards. We sometimes participate in the proceedings before the Postal Regulatory Commission in an attempt to 
secure fair postal rates for competitive services.

Our ground operations are subject to compliance with various cargo-security and transportation regulations issued by the 

U.S. Department of Homeland Security, including regulation by the TSA.

Customs

We are subject to the customs laws in the countries in which we operate, regarding the import and export of shipments, 

including those related to the filing of documents on behalf of client importers and exporters. Our activities, including customs 
brokerage and freight forwarding, are subject to regulation by the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, the TSA, the U.S. 
Federal Maritime Commission and the DOT. 

Environmental

We are subject to federal, state and local environmental laws and regulations across all of our business units. These laws 

and regulations cover a variety of processes, including, but not limited to: proper storage, handling and disposal of waste 
materials; appropriately managing wastewater and stormwater; monitoring and maintaining the integrity of underground 
storage tanks; complying with laws regarding clean air, including those governing emissions; protecting against and 
appropriately responding to spills and releases; and communicating the presence of reportable quantities of hazardous materials 
to local responders. We have established site- and activity-specific environmental compliance and pollution prevention 
programs to address our environmental responsibilities and remain compliant. In addition, we have created numerous programs 
which seek to minimize waste and prevent pollution within our operations.

Pursuant to the Federal Aviation Act, the FAA, with the assistance of the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), is 

authorized to establish standards governing aircraft noise. Our aircraft fleet is in compliance with current noise standards of the 
federal aviation regulations. Our international operations are also subject to noise regulations in certain countries in which we 
operate. 

Communications

Because of our extensive use of radio and other communication facilities in our aircraft and ground transportation 
operations, we are subject to the Federal Communications Act of 1934, as amended. Additionally, the Federal Communications 
Commission regulates and licenses our activities pertaining to satellite communications.

Where You Can Find More Information

We maintain a website at www.ups.com. Our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current 

reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934 are made available through our website www.investors.ups.com as soon as reasonably practical after we 
electronically file or furnish the reports to the SEC. However, information on these websites is not incorporated by reference 
into this report or any other report filed with or furnished to the SEC.

12

We have adopted a written Code of Business Conduct that applies to all of our directors, officers and employees, 
including our principal executive officer and senior financial officers. It is available in the governance section of our investor 
relations website, located at www.investors.ups.com. In the event that we make changes in, or provide waivers from, the 
provisions of the Code of Business Conduct that the SEC requires us to disclose, we intend to disclose these events in the 
governance section of our investor relations website.

Our Corporate Governance Guidelines and the Charters for our Audit Committee, Compensation Committee, Risk 
Committee and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee are also available in the governance section of our investor 
relations website.

Our sustainability report, which describes our activities that support our commitment to acting responsibly and 

contributing to society, is available at www.sustainability.ups.com. We provide the addresses to our Internet sites solely for the 
information of investors. We do not intend for any addresses to be active links or to otherwise incorporate the contents of any 
website into this report.

13

Item 1A. 

Risk Factors

You should carefully consider the following factors, which could materially affect our business, financial condition or 

results of operations. You should read these Risk Factors in conjunction with “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of 
Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Item 7 and our Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes in 
Item 8.

General economic conditions, both in the U.S. and internationally, may adversely affect our results of operations.

We conduct operations in over 220 countries and territories. Our U.S. and international operations are subject to normal 

cycles affecting the economy in general, as well as the local economic environments in which we operate. The factors that 
create cyclical changes to the economy and to our business are beyond our control, and it may be difficult for us to adjust our 
business model to mitigate the impact of these factors. In particular, our business is affected by levels of industrial production, 
consumer spending and retail activity and our business, financial position and results of operations could be materially affected 
by adverse developments in these aspects of the economy. The United Kingdom’s vote to leave the European Union could 
result in economic uncertainty and instability, resulting in fewer goods being transported globally. 

We face significant competition which could adversely affect our business, financial position and results of operations.

We face significant competition on a local, regional, national and international basis. Our competitors include the postal 
services of the U.S. and other nations, various motor carriers, express companies, freight forwarders, air couriers and others. 
Competition may also come from other sources in the future. Some of our competitors have cost and organizational structures 
that differ from ours and may offer services and pricing terms that we may not be willing or able to offer. If we are unable to 
timely and appropriately respond to competitive pressures, our business, financial position and results of operations could be 
adversely affected.

The transportation industry continues to consolidate and competition remains strong. As a result of consolidation, our 

competitors may increase their market share and improve their financial capacity, and may strengthen their competitive 
positions. Business combinations could also result in competitors providing a wider variety of services and products at 
competitive prices, which could adversely affect our financial performance.

Changes in our relationships with our significant customers, including the loss or reduction in business from one or more 
of them, could have an adverse impact on us.

No single customer accounts for 10% or more of our consolidated revenue. We do not believe the loss of any single 
customer would materially impair our overall financial condition or results of operations; however, collectively, some of our 
large customers might account for a relatively significant portion of the growth in revenue in a particular quarter or year. These 
customers can drive the growth in revenue for particular services based on factors such as: new customer product launches; 
trends in the e-commerce industry, such as the seasonality associated with the fourth quarter holiday season; business mergers 
and acquisitions; and the overall fast growth of a customer's underlying business. These customers could choose to divert all or 
a portion of their business with us to one of our competitors, demand pricing concessions for our services, require us to provide 
enhanced services that increase our costs, or develop their own shipping and distribution capabilities. If these factors drove 
some of our large customers to cancel all or a portion of their business relationships with us, it could materially impact the 
growth in our business and the ability to meet our current and long-term financial forecasts. 

Our business is subject to complex and stringent regulation in the U.S. and internationally.

We are subject to complex and stringent aviation, transportation, environmental, security, labor, employment and other 
governmental laws, regulations and policies, both in the U.S. and in the other countries in which we operate. In addition, our 
business is impacted by laws, regulations and policies that affect global trade, including tariff and trade policies, export 
requirements, taxes, monetary policies and other restrictions and charges. Changes in laws, regulations and policies and the 
related interpretations may alter the landscape in which we do business and may affect our costs of doing business. The impact 
of new laws, regulations and policies cannot be predicted. Compliance with new laws and regulations may increase our 
operating costs or require significant capital expenditures. Any failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations in the U.S. 
or in any of the countries in which we operate could result in substantial fines or possible revocation of our authority to conduct 
our operations, which could adversely affect our financial performance.

14

Increased security requirements could impose substantial costs on us and we could be the target of an attack or have a 
security breach.

As a result of concerns about global terrorism and homeland security, governments around the world have adopted or may 

adopt stricter security requirements that will result in increased operating costs for businesses in the transportation industry. 
These requirements may change periodically as a result of regulatory and legislative requirements and in response to evolving 
threats. We cannot determine the effect that these new requirements will have on our cost structure or our operating results, and 
these rules or other future security requirements may increase our costs of operations and reduce operating efficiencies. 
Regardless of our compliance with security requirements or the steps we take to secure our facilities or fleet, we could be the 
target of an attack or security breaches could occur, which could adversely affect our operations or our reputation.

We may be affected by global climate change or by legal, regulatory or market responses to such a potential change.

Concern over climate change, including the impact of global warming, has led to significant federal, state and 
international legislative and regulatory efforts to limit greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions. For example, in the past several 
years, the U.S. Congress has considered various bills that would regulate GHG emissions. While these bills have not yet 
received sufficient Congressional support for enactment, some form of federal climate change legislation is possible in the 
future. Even in the absence of such legislation, the Environmental Protection Agency, spurred by judicial interpretation of the 
Clean Air Act, may regulate GHG emissions, especially aircraft or diesel engine emissions, and this could impose substantial 
costs on us. These costs include an increase in the cost of the fuel and other energy we purchase and capital costs associated 
with updating or replacing our aircraft or vehicles prematurely. Until the timing, scope and extent of any future regulation 
becomes known, we cannot predict its effect on our cost structure or our operating results. It is reasonably possible that such 
legislation or regulation could impose material costs on us. Moreover, even without such legislation or regulation, increased 
awareness and any adverse publicity in the global marketplace about the GHGs emitted by companies in the airline and 
transportation industries could harm our reputation and reduce customer demand for our services, especially our air services.

Strikes, work stoppages and slowdowns by our employees could adversely affect our business, financial position and results 
of operations.

A significant number of our employees are employed under a national master agreement and various supplemental 
agreements with local unions affiliated with the Teamsters. In addition, our airline pilots, airline mechanics, ground mechanics 
and certain other employees are employed under other collective bargaining agreements. Strikes, work stoppages and 
slowdowns by our employees could adversely affect our ability to meet our customers' needs, and customers may do more 
business with competitors if they believe that such actions or threatened actions may adversely affect our ability to provide 
services. We may face a permanent loss of customers if we are unable to provide uninterrupted service, and this could adversely 
affect our business, financial position and results of operations. The terms of future collective bargaining agreements also may 
affect our competitive position and results of operations.

We are exposed to the effects of changing prices of energy, including gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, and interruptions in 
supplies of these commodities.

Changing fuel and energy costs may have a significant impact on our operations. We require significant quantities of fuel 

for our aircraft and delivery vehicles and are exposed to the risk associated with variations in the market price for petroleum 
products, including gasoline, diesel and jet fuel. We mitigate our exposure to changing fuel prices through our indexed fuel 
surcharges and we may also enter into hedging transactions from time to time. If we are unable to maintain or increase our fuel 
surcharges, higher fuel costs could adversely impact our operating results. Even if we are able to offset the cost of fuel with our 
surcharges, high fuel surcharges may result in a mix shift from our higher-yielding air products to lower-yielding ground 
products or an overall reduction in volume. There can be no assurance that our hedging transactions will be effective to protect 
us from changes in fuel prices. Moreover, we could experience a disruption in energy supplies, including our supply of 
gasoline, diesel and jet fuel, as a result of war, actions by producers or other factors beyond our control, which could have an 
adverse effect on our business.

Changes in exchange rates or interest rates may have an adverse effect on our results.

We conduct business across the globe with a significant portion of our revenue derived from operations outside the United 

States. Our operations in international markets are affected by changes in the exchange rates for local currencies, and in 
particular the Euro, British Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollar, Chinese Renminbi and Hong Kong Dollar.

15

We are exposed to changes in interest rates, primarily on our short-term debt and that portion of our long-term debt that 

carries floating interest rates. The impact of a 100-basis-point change in interest rates affecting our debt is discussed in the 
“Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” section of this report.  Additionally, changes in interest rates 
impact the valuation of our pension and postretirement benefit obligations and the related benefit cost recognized in the income 
statement. The impact of changes in interest rates on our pension and postretirement benefit obligations and costs is discussed 
further in the "Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates" section of this report.

We monitor and manage our exposures to changes in currency exchange rates and interest rates, and make use of 

derivative instruments to mitigate the impact of changes in these rates on our financial position and results of operations; 
however, changes in exchange rates and interest rates cannot always be predicted or hedged.

If we are unable to maintain our brand image and corporate reputation, our business may suffer.

Our success depends in part on our ability to maintain the image of the UPS brand and our reputation for providing 
excellent service to our customers. Service quality issues, actual or perceived, even when false or unfounded, could tarnish the 
image of our brand and may cause customers to use other companies. Also, adverse publicity surrounding labor relations, 
environmental concerns, security matters, political activities and the like, or attempts to connect our company to these sorts of 
issues, either in the United States or other countries in which we operate, could negatively affect our overall reputation and 
acceptance of our services by customers. Damage to our reputation and loss of brand equity could reduce demand for our 
services and thus have an adverse effect on our business, financial position and results of operations, and could require 
additional resources to rebuild our reputation and restore the value of our brand.

A significant privacy breach or IT system disruption could adversely affect our business and we may be required to increase 
our spending on data and system security.

We rely on information technology networks and systems, including the Internet, to process, transmit and store electronic 
information, and to manage or support a variety of business processes and activities. In addition, the provision of service to our 
customers and the operation of our networks and systems involve the storage and transmission of proprietary information and 
sensitive or confidential data, including personal information of customers, employees and others. Our franchised center 
locations also are reliant on the use of information technology systems to manage their business processes and activities.  Our  
information technology systems (as well as those of our franchisees), some of which are managed by third-parties, may be 
susceptible to damage, disruptions or shutdowns due to failures during the process of upgrading or replacing software, 
databases or components thereof, power outages, hardware failures, computer viruses, attacks by computer hackers, malicious 
insiders, telecommunication failures, user errors or catastrophic events. Hackers, acting individually or in coordinated groups, 
may also launch distributed denial of service attacks or other coordinated attacks that may cause service outages or other 
interruptions in our business. In addition, breaches in security could expose us, our customers and franchisees, or the 
individuals affected, to a risk of loss or misuse of proprietary information and sensitive or confidential data. The techniques 
used to obtain unauthorized access, disable or degrade service or sabotage systems change frequently, may be difficult to detect 
for a long time and often are not recognized until launched against a target. As a result, we may be unable to anticipate these 
techniques or to implement adequate preventative measures. 

Any of these occurrences could result in disruptions in our operations, the loss of existing or potential customers, damage 

to our brand and reputation, and litigation and potential liability for the company. In addition, the cost and operational 
consequences of implementing further data or system protection measures could be significant. In August 2014, a broad-based 
malware intrusion targeting retailers throughout the U.S. was discovered and subsequently eradicated at approximately 1% of 
our franchisees’ locations. While the impact of this cyber-attack, including the costs associated with investigation and 
remediation activities, was not material to our business and our financial results, our efforts to deter, identify, mitigate and/or 
eliminate any future breaches may not be successful.

Severe weather or other natural or manmade disasters could adversely affect our business.

Severe weather conditions and other natural or manmade disasters, including storms, floods, fires or earthquakes, 

epidemics or pandemics, conflicts or unrest, or terrorist attacks may result in decreased revenues, as our customers reduce their 
shipments, or increased costs to operate our business, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations for a 
quarter or year. Any such event affecting one of our major facilities could result in a significant interruption in or disruption of 
our business.

16

We make significant capital investments in our business of which a significant portion is tied to projected volume levels.

We require significant capital investments in our business consisting of aircraft, vehicles, technology, facilities and sorting 

and other types of equipment to support both our existing business and anticipated growth. Forecasting projected volume 
involves many factors which are subject to uncertainty, such as general economic trends, changes in governmental regulation 
and competition. If we do not accurately forecast our future capital investment needs, we could have excess capacity or 
insufficient capacity, either of which would negatively affect our revenues and profitability. In addition to forecasting our 
capital investment requirements, we adjust other elements of our operations and cost structure in response to adverse economic 
conditions; however, these adjustments may not be sufficient to allow us to maintain our operating margins in a weak economy.

We derive a significant portion of our revenues from our international operations and are subject to the risks of doing 
business in international markets.

We have significant international operations and while the geographical diversity of our international operations helps 

ensure that we are not overly reliant on a single region or country, we are continually exposed to changing economic, political 
and social developments beyond our control. Emerging markets are typically more volatile than those in the developed world, 
and any broad-based downturn in these markets could reduce our revenues and adversely affect our business, financial position 
and results of operations. We are subject to many laws governing our international operations, including those that prohibit 
improper payments to government officials and commercial customers, and restrict where we can do business, our shipments to 
certain countries and the information that we can provide to non-U.S. governments.  

We are subject to changes in markets and our business plans that have resulted, and may in the future result, in substantial 
write-downs of the carrying value of our assets, thereby reducing our net income.

Our regular review of the carrying value of our assets has resulted, from time to time, in significant impairments, and we 

may in the future be required to recognize additional impairment charges. Changes in business strategy, government 
regulations, or economic or market conditions have resulted and may result in further substantial impairments of our intangible, 
fixed or other assets at any time in the future. In addition, we have been and may be required in the future to recognize 
increased depreciation and amortization charges if we determine that the useful lives of our fixed assets or intangible assets are 
shorter than we originally estimated. Such changes could reduce our net income.

Employee health and retiree health and pension benefit costs represent a significant expense to us.

Our expenses relating to employee health and retiree health and pension benefits are significant. In recent years, we have 
experienced significant increases in some of these costs, largely as a result of economic factors beyond our control, including, 
in particular, ongoing increases in health care costs well in excess of the rate of inflation and historically low discount rates that 
we use to value our benefit plan obligations. Continually increasing health care costs, volatility in investment returns and 
discount rates, as well as changes in laws, regulations and assumptions used to calculate retiree health and pension benefit 
expenses, may adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations or require significant contributions to our 
benefit plans. The new national master agreement with the IBT includes changes that are designed to mitigate certain of these 
health care expenses, but there can be no assurance that our efforts will be successful or that the failure or success of these 
efforts will not adversely affect our business, financial position, results of operations or liquidity. 

We participate in a number of trustee-managed multiemployer pension and health and welfare plans for employees 

covered under collective bargaining agreements.  As part of the overall collective bargaining process for wage and benefit 
levels, we have agreed to contribute certain amounts to the multiemployer benefit plans during the contract period. The 
multiemployer benefit plans set benefit levels and are responsible for benefit delivery to participants. Future contribution 
amounts to multiemployer benefit plans will be determined only through collective bargaining, and we have no additional legal 
or constructive obligation to increase contributions beyond the agreed-upon amounts (except potential surcharges under the 
Pension Protection Act of 2006 in the event that a plan enters critical status, and our contributions are not sufficient to satisfy 
any rehabilitation plan funding schedule).  In future collective bargaining negotiations, we could agree to make significantly 
higher future contributions to improve the funded status of one or more of these plans. The funded status of these 
multiemployer plans is impacted by various factors, including investment performance, health care inflation, changes in 
demographics and changes in participant benefit levels.  At this time, we are unable to determine the amount of additional 
future contributions, if any, or whether any material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity 
could result from our participation in these plans. 

17

In addition to our on-going multiemployer pension plan obligations, we may have additional exposure with respect to 
benefits earned in the Central States Pension Fund (the "CSPF"). UPS was a contributing employer to the CSPF until 2007 
when we withdrew from the plan and fully funded our allocable share of unfunded vested benefits by paying a $6.1 billion 
withdrawal liability. Under a collective bargaining agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, UPS agreed to 
provide coordinating benefits in the UPS/IBT Full Time Employee Pension Plan (“UPS/IBT Plan”) for UPS participants 
retiring on or after January 1, 2008 in the event that benefits are lawfully reduced by the CSPF in the future. 

In December 2014, Congress passed the Multiemployer Pension Reform Act (“MPRA”), which for the first time ever 

allowed multiemployer pension plans to reduce benefit payments to retirees, subject to specific guidelines in the statute and 
government oversight. In September 2015, the CSPF submitted a proposed pension benefit reduction plan to the U.S. 
Department of the Treasury under the MPRA. The CSPF plan proposed to reduce retirement benefits to the CSPF participants, 
including UPS participants retiring on or after January 1, 2008. We vigorously challenged the proposed benefit reduction plan 
because we believed that it did not comply with the law and that certain actions by the CSPF were invalid. On May 6, 2016, the 
U.S. Department of the Treasury rejected the proposed plan submitted by the CSPF, stating that it failed to satisfy a number of 
requirements set forth in the MPRA. 

The CSPF has asserted that it will become insolvent in 2025 which could lead to the reduction of retirement benefits. 

Although there are numerous factors that could affect the CSPF’s status, if the CSPF were to become insolvent as they have 
projected, UPS may be required to provide coordinating benefits, thereby increasing the current projected benefit obligation for 
the UPS/IBT Plan by approximately $4 billion. The CSPF has said that it believes a legislative solution to its funding status is 
necessary, and we expect that the CSPF will continue to explore options to avoid insolvency. 

The potential obligation to pay coordinating benefits from the UPS/IBT Plan is subject to a number of uncertainties, 
including actions that may be taken by the CSPF, the federal government or others. These actions include whether the CSPF 
will submit a revised pension benefit reduction plan or otherwise seek federal government assistance, the extent to which 
benefits are paid by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, as well as the effect of discount rates and various other actuarial 
assumptions. Our best estimate, as of the measurement date of December 31, 2016, is that we do not have any liability for 
additional coordinating benefits of the UPS/IBT Plan. However, there are numerous uncertainties that exist regarding the 
ultimate resolution of the CSPF situation and the current projected benefit obligation could materially increase as these 
uncertainties are resolved. We will continue to assess the impact of these uncertainties on the projected benefit obligation of the 
UPS/IBT Plan in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification Topic 715 - Compensation - Retirement Benefits. 

We may be subject to various claims and lawsuits that could result in significant expenditures.

The nature of our business exposes us to the potential for various claims and litigation related to labor and employment, 

personal injury, property damage, business practices, environmental liability and other matters. Any material litigation or a 
catastrophic accident or series of accidents could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position and results 
of operations.

We may not realize the anticipated benefits of acquisitions, joint ventures or strategic alliances.

As part of our business strategy, we may acquire businesses and form joint ventures or strategic alliances. Whether we 

realize the anticipated benefits from these transactions depends, in part, upon the successful integration between the businesses 
involved, the performance of the underlying operations, capabilities or technologies and the management of the acquired 
operations. Accordingly, our financial results could be adversely affected by our failure to effectively integrate the acquired 
operations, unanticipated performance issues, transaction-related charges or charges for impairment of long-term assets that we 
acquire.

Insurance and claims expenses could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of 
operations.

We have a combination of both self-insurance and high-deductible insurance programs for the risks arising out of the 
services we provide and the nature of our global operations, including claims exposure resulting from cargo loss, personal 
injury, property damage, aircraft and related liabilities, business interruption and workers' compensation. Workers' 
compensation, automobile and general liabilities are determined using actuarial estimates of the aggregate liability for claims 
incurred and an estimate of incurred but not reported claims, on an undiscounted basis. Our accruals for insurance reserves 
reflect certain actuarial assumptions and management judgments, which are subject to a high degree of variability. If the 
number or severity of claims for which we are retaining risk increases, our financial condition and results of operations could 
be adversely affected. If we lose our ability to self-insure these risks, our insurance costs could materially increase and we may 
find it difficult to obtain adequate levels of insurance coverage.

18

 
 
 
Item 1B. 

Unresolved Staff Comments

Not applicable.

Item 2.  Properties

 Operating Facilities

We own our headquarters, which is located in Atlanta, Georgia and consists of about 745,000 square feet of office space 

in an office campus, and our UPS Supply Chain Solutions group’s headquarters, which is located in Alpharetta, Georgia and 
consists of about 310,000 square feet of office space.

We own or lease 33 principal U.S. package operating facilities, which have floor space up to approximately 1.9 million 
square feet, the largest being our operating facility near Chicago, Illinois, which is designed to streamline shipments between 
East Coast and West Coast destinations.  In total, we own or lease over 1,000 additional package operating facilities in the U.S. 
The smaller of these facilities have vehicles and drivers stationed for the pick-up and delivery of packages, and capacity to sort 
and transfer packages. The larger of these facilities also service our vehicles and equipment, and employ specialized 
mechanical installations for the sorting and handling of packages.We own or lease more than 800 facilities that support our 
international package operations.  

In addition, we own or lease more than 500 facilities, with approximately 33 million square feet of floor space, that 

support our freight forwarding and logistics operations. We own and operate a logistics campus consisting of approximately 
3.7 million square feet in Louisville, Kentucky.

We own or lease approximately 200 UPS Freight service centers with approximately 6 million square feet of floor space.  

The main offices of UPS Freight are located in Richmond, Virginia and consist of about 217,000 square feet of office space. 

Our aircraft are operated in a hub and spoke pattern in the U.S., with our principal air hub, known as Worldport, located 
in Louisville, Kentucky. The Worldport facility consists of over 5 million square feet and the site includes approximately 600 
acres with a sorting capacity of approximately 416,000 packages per hour and includes high-speed conveyor and computer 
control systems.

Our U.S. regional air hubs are located in Columbia, South Carolina; Dallas, Texas; Ontario, California; Philadelphia, 

Pennsylvania; and Rockford, Illinois. These hubs house facilities for the sorting, transfer and delivery of packages. Our 
European air hub is located in Cologne, Germany, and we maintain Asia-Pacific air hubs in Shanghai, China; Shenzhen, China; 
and Hong Kong. Our regional air hub in Canada is located in Hamilton, Ontario, and our regional air hub for Latin America and 
the Caribbean is in Miami, Florida.

The UPS International Air Hub at Pudong International Airport was built on land totaling 2.4 million square feet with a 

sorting capacity of 17,000 packages per hour. This hub links all of China via Shanghai to UPS’s international network, and has 
direct service to the Americas, Europe and other parts of Asia; it also connects points served in China by UPS through a 
dedicated service provided by Yangtze River Express, a Chinese all-cargo airline.

We also have an intra-Asia air hub at Shenzhen Bao'an International Airport in China. The Shenzhen facility, which was 

built on almost one million square feet of land, has a sorting capacity of 18,000 packages per hour and serves as our primary 
transit hub in Asia.

Our primary information technology operations are consolidated in a 443,600 square foot owned facility, the Ramapo 
Ridge facility, which is located on a 39-acre site in Mahwah, New Jersey. We also own a 175,000 square foot facility located on 
a 25-acre site in Alpharetta, Georgia, which serves as a backup to the main information technology operations facility in New 
Jersey. This facility provides production functions and backup capacity in the event that a power outage or other disaster 
incapacitates the main data center. It also helps to meet our internal communication needs.

We believe that our facilities are adequate to support our current operations.

19

 
Fleet

Aircraft

The following table shows information about our aircraft fleet as of December 31, 2016:

Description
Boeing 757-200F
Boeing 767-300ERF
Airbus A300-600F
Boeing MD-11F*
Boeing 747-400F
Boeing 747-400BCF
Boeing 747-8F
Other

Total

Owned and
Capital
Leases

Short-term
Leased or
Chartered
From
Others

On
Order

Under
Option

75
59
52
38
11
2
—
—
237

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
420
420

—
—
—
—
—
—
14
—
14

—
—
—
—
—
—
14
—
14

*Includes one Boeing MD-11F not in operation pending disposal

We maintain an inventory of spare engines and parts for each aircraft.

All the aircraft we own meet Stage IV federal noise regulations and can operate at airports that have aircraft noise 

restrictions. 

We currently have 14 new Boeing 747-8F cargo aircraft on order to meet increased demand for our air shipping services.  

The 14 aircraft are to be delivered between 2017 and 2020. We also have options for 14 additional 747-8F cargo aircraft.  

Vehicles

We operate a global ground fleet of approximately 114,000 package cars, vans, tractors and motorcycles. Our ground 

support fleet consists of 34,000 pieces of equipment designed specifically to support our aircraft fleet, ranging from non-
powered container dollies and racks to powered aircraft main deck loaders and cargo tractors. We also have 40,000 containers 
used to transport cargo in our aircraft.

Item 3.  Legal Proceedings

For a discussion of legal proceedings affecting us and our subsidiaries, please see the information under note 4 to the 
audited consolidated financial statements for a discussion of pension related matters and note 9 for a discussion of judicial 
proceedings and other matters arising from the conduct of our business activities.

Item 4.  Mine Safety Disclosures

Not applicable.

20

 
 
PART II

Item 5.  Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Our class A common stock is not listed on a national securities exchange or traded in an organized over-the-counter 

market, but each share of our class A common stock is convertible into one share of our class B common stock.

The following is a summary of our class B common stock price activity and dividend information for 2016 and 2015. Our 

class B common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “UPS”.

2016:
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter
2015:
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter

High

Low

Close

Dividends
Declared

$ 106.10
$ 107.72
$ 111.50
$ 120.16

$ 88.70
$ 100.66
$ 106.86
$ 106.84

$ 105.47
$ 107.72
$ 109.36
$ 114.64

$ 114.25
$ 102.13
$ 103.43
$ 106.80

$ 96.59
$ 95.38
$ 94.46
$ 96.23

$ 96.94
$ 96.91
$ 98.69
$ 96.23

$
$
$
$

$
$
$
$

0.78
0.78
0.78
0.78

0.73
0.73
0.73
0.73

As of February 8, 2017, there were 153,902 and 18,637 record holders of class A and class B common stock, respectively.

Our practice has been to pay dividends on a quarterly basis. The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of 
the Board of Directors and will depend on various factors, including our net income, financial condition, cash requirements, 
future prospects and other relevant factors.

On February 8, 2017, our Board declared a dividend of $0.83 per share, which is payable on March 8, 2017 to 

shareowners of record on February 21, 2017. This represents a 6% increase from the previous $0.78 quarterly dividend in 2016.

A summary of repurchases of our class A and class B common stock during the fourth quarter of 2016 is as follows (in 

millions, except per share amounts):

Total Number
of Shares
Purchased(1)

Total Number
of Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Program

Average
Price Paid
Per Share

Approximate Dollar
Value of Shares that
May Yet be Purchased
Under the Program
(as of month-end)

October 1—October 31
November 1—November 30
December 1—December 31

Total October 1—December 31

1.2
3.5
1.3
6.0

$

1.2
3.5
1.3
6.0

$

$

108.52
114.35
117.14
113.83

6,706
6,306
6,154

(1) 

Includes shares repurchased through our publicly announced share repurchase program and shares tendered to pay the 
exercise price and tax withholding on employee stock options.

In May 2016, the Board of Directors approved a share repurchase authorization of $8.0 billion, which replaced an authorization 
previously announced in 2013. The new share repurchase authorization has no expiration date. We anticipate repurchasing 
approximately $1.8 billion of shares in 2017.

21

Shareowner Return Performance Graph

The following performance graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or to be “filed” with 

the SEC, nor shall such information be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or 
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates such 
information by reference into such filing.

The following graph shows a five year comparison of cumulative total shareowners’ returns for our class B common 
stock, the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index and the Dow Jones Transportation Average. The comparison of the total cumulative 
return on investment, which is the change in the quarterly stock price plus reinvested dividends for each of the quarterly 
periods, assumes that $100 was invested on December 31, 2011 in the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index, the Dow Jones 
Transportation Average and our class B common stock.

United Parcel Service, Inc.
Standard & Poor’s 500 Index
Dow Jones Transportation Average

12/31/2011
$ 100.00
$ 100.00
$ 100.00

12/31/2012
$ 103.84
$ 115.99
$ 107.49

12/31/2013
$ 152.16
$ 153.54
$ 151.97

12/31/2014
$ 165.35
$ 174.54
$ 190.07

12/31/2015
$ 154.61
$ 176.94
$ 158.22

12/31/2016
$ 189.72
$ 198.09
$ 192.80

22

Item 6.  Selected Financial Data

The following table sets forth selected financial data for each of the five years in the period ended December 31, 2016 (in 
millions, except per share amounts). This financial data should be read together with our consolidated financial statements and 
related notes, Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, including the Items 
Affecting Comparability section, and other financial data appearing elsewhere in this report. 

Selected Income Statement Data
Revenue:

U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain & Freight
Total Revenue
Operating Expenses:

Compensation and benefits
Other
Total Operating Expenses

Operating Profit:

U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain and Freight
Total Operating Profit

Other Income and (Expense):

Investment income
Interest expense

Income Before Income Taxes
Income Tax Expense
Net Income
Per Share Amounts:

Basic Earnings Per Share
Diluted Earnings Per Share
Dividends Declared Per Share

Weighted Average Shares Outstanding:

Basic
Diluted

Selected Balance Sheet Data:
Cash and marketable securities
Total assets
Long-term debt
Shareowners’ equity

Years Ended December 31,

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

$ 38,301
12,350
10,255
60,906

$ 36,747
12,149
9,467
58,363

$ 35,851
12,988
9,393
58,232

$ 34,074
12,429
8,935
55,438

$ 32,856
12,124
9,147
54,127

34,770
20,669
55,439

31,028
19,667
50,695

32,045
21,219
53,264

28,557
19,847
48,404

3,017
2,044
406
5,467

50
(381)
5,136
1,705
3,431

3.89
3.87
3.12

883
887

$

$
$
$

4,767
2,137
764
7,668

15
(341)
7,342
2,498
4,844

5.38
5.35
2.92

901
906

$

$
$
$

2,859
1,677
432
4,968

22
(353)
4,637
1,605
3,032

3.31
3.28
2.68

916
924

$

$
$
$

4,603
1,757
674
7,034

20
(380)
6,674
2,302
4,372

4.65
4.61
2.48

940
948

$

$
$
$

33,102
19,682
52,784

459
869
15
1,343

24
(393)
974
167
807

0.84
0.83
2.28

960
969

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

As of December 31,

4,567
40,377
12,394
429

$

4,726
38,311
11,316
2,491

$

3,283
35,440
9,856
2,158

$

5,245
35,553
10,824
6,488

$

7,924
38,818
11,089
4,733

$

$
$
$

$

23

 
 
 
 
Item 7.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Overview

The U.S. economic environment was mixed in 2016 as relatively stable consumer conditions were somewhat offset by 

continued weakness in industrial production and soft business investment. U.S. manufacturing has shown positive signs of 
growth in recent months, reaching a two-year high in the fourth quarter of 2016, and we continue to see modest GDP growth. 
Consumer confidence reached a high in the fourth quarter of 2016 and there were lower fuel prices coupled with the 
continuation of steady job growth throughout the year. Holiday retail sales grew 4% in 2016 as compared to last year, mainly 
driven by online sales, while the holiday season saw many categories of traditional brick and mortar stores struggle. Continued 
growth in e-commerce and omni-channel retail sales has driven package volume demand for residential products. Given these 
trends, our products most aligned with business-to-consumer shipments have experienced the strongest growth. 

Outside the U.S., emerging markets have stabilized in recent months and most developed nations have seen modest 
growth. The impending exit of the United Kingdom from the European Union creates some uncertainty regarding its impact on 
global GDP. The uneven nature of economic growth worldwide and fluctuations in currency markets, particularly the 
strengthening of the U.S. Dollar, have continued shifting trade patterns and weakened demand in certain trade lanes. As a result 
of these circumstances, we continued to adjust our air capacity and cost structure in our transportation network to better match 
the prevailing volume levels. Our broad portfolio of product offerings and the flexibilities inherent in our transportation 
network have helped us adapt to these changing trends.

While the worldwide economic environment remained challenging in 2016, we have continued to undertake several 
initiatives in the U.S. and internationally to (1) improve the flexibility and capacity in our transportation network; (2) improve 
yield management; and (3) increase operational efficiency and contain costs across all segments. Most notably, the continued 
deployment of technology improvements (including several facility automation projects and the accelerated deployment of our 
On Road Integrated Optimization and Navigation system - "ORION") should continue to increase our network capacity and 
improve operational efficiency, flexibility and reliability. Additionally, we have continued to utilize newly expanded operating 
facilities to improve time-in-transit for shipments in each region.

Our consolidated results are presented in the table below:

Revenue (in millions)
Operating Expenses (in millions)
Operating Profit (in millions)
Operating Margin
Average Daily Package Volume (in thousands)
Average Revenue Per Piece
Net Income (in millions)
Basic Earnings Per Share
Diluted Earnings Per Share

Year Ended December 31,

% Change

2016
$ 60,906
55,439
5,467

$

9.0%

19,090
10.30
3,431
3.89
3.87

$
$
$
$

2015
$ 58,363
50,695
7,668
13.1%

$

18,324
10.37
4,844
5.38
5.35

$
$
$
$

2014
$ 58,232
53,264
4,968

$

8.5%

18,016
10.58
3,032
3.31
3.28

$
$
$
$

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

4.4 %
9.4 %
(28.7)%

4.2 %
(0.7)%
(29.2)%
(27.7)%
(27.7)%

0.2 %
(4.8)%
54.3 %

1.7 %
(2.0)%
59.8 %
62.5 %
63.1 %

24

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Items Affecting Comparability

The results and discussions that follow are reflective of how our executive management monitors the performance of our 
reporting segments. We supplement the reporting of our financial information determined under generally accepted accounting 
principles (“GAAP”) with certain non-GAAP financial measures, including "adjusted" compensation and benefits, operating 
expenses, operating profit, operating margin, income tax expense and effective tax rate. These adjustments reflect the non-
comparable items discussed below. We believe that these adjusted measures provide meaningful information to assist investors 
and analysts in understanding our financial results and assessing our prospects for future performance. We believe these 
adjusted financial measures are important indicators of our recurring results of operations because they exclude items that may 
not be indicative of, or are unrelated to, our underlying operations results, and provide a useful baseline for analyzing trends in 
our underlying businesses. Additionally, these adjusted financial measures are used internally by management for the 
determination of incentive compensation awards, business unit operating performance analysis and business unit resource 
allocation.

The year-over-year comparisons of our financial results are affected by the following items (in millions):

Non-GAAP Adjustments
Operating Expenses:

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charges
Health & Welfare Plan Charges

Total Adjustments to Operating Expenses

Income Tax Expense (Benefit) from the Items Above

Total Adjustments to Net Income

Year Ended December 31,
2015

2014

2016

$ 2,651
—
2,651
(978)
$ 1,673

$

$

118
—
118
(39)
79

$ 1,062
1,102
2,164
(807)
$ 1,357

These items have been excluded from comparisons of "adjusted" compensation and benefits, operating expenses, 
operating profit, operating margin, income tax expense and effective tax rate in the discussion that follows. The income tax 
effects of these adjustments are calculated by multiplying the statutory tax rates applicable in each tax jurisdiction, including 
the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various U.S. state and non-U.S. jurisdictions, by the adjustments. The blended average of the 
applicable statutory tax rates in 2016, 2015 and 2014 were 36.9% , 33.1% and 37.2% respectively. 

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charges

We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and net actuarial gains and losses in excess of a 10% corridor for our 

pension and postretirement defined benefit plans immediately as part of net periodic benefit cost. We supplement the 
presentation of our operating profit and operating margin with "adjusted" measures that exclude the impact of the portion of net 
periodic benefit cost represented by the gains and losses recognized in excess of the 10% corridor and the related income tax 
effects. 

The adjustments made to exclude these mark-to-market adjustments utilize the expected return on plan assets ($2.580 
billion, $2.567 billion and $2.343 billion for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively) and the discount rates used for determining net 
periodic benefit cost. The non-adjusted net periodic benefit cost reflects the actual return on plan assets ($1.846 billion, $110 
million and $2.600 billion for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively) and the discount rates used for measuring the projected 
benefit obligation as summarized in the table below. We believe excluding these mark-to-market charges from our adjusted 
results provides important supplemental information that reflects the anticipated long-term cost of our defined benefit plans and 
provides a benchmark for historical defined benefit cost trends that may provide a useful comparison of year-to-year financial 
performance without considering the short-term impact of changes in market interest rates, equity prices and similar factors.

In 2016, we recognized pre-tax mark-to-market losses in compensation and benefits expense of $2.651 billion on our 

pension and postretirement defined benefit plans related to the remeasurement of plan assets and liabilities recognized outside 
of a 10% corridor. These charges impacted our U.S. Domestic Package segment ($1.908 billion), International Package segment 
($425 million) and Supply Chain & Freight segment ($318 million).

In 2015, we recognized pre-tax mark-to-market losses in compensation and benefits expense of $118 million on our 
pension and postretirement defined benefit plans related to the remeasurement of plan assets and liabilities recognized outside 
of a 10% corridor. These charges impacted our U.S. Domestic Package segment ($62 million), International Package segment 
($44 million) and Supply Chain & Freight segment ($12 million).

25

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

In 2014, we recognized pre-tax mark-to-market losses in compensation and benefits expense of $1.062 billion on our 

pension and postretirement defined benefit plans related to the remeasurement of plan assets and liabilities recognized outside 
of a 10% corridor. These charges impacted our U.S. Domestic Package segment ($660 million), International Package segment 
($200 million) and Supply Chain & Freight segment ($202 million).

The table below indicates the amounts associated with each component of the pre-tax mark-to-market loss, as well as the 

weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine our net periodic benefit costs, for each year:

Components of mark-to-market gain (loss) (in millions):

Discount rates

Return on assets

Demographic and assumption changes
Reclassification of prior year unrecognized benefit cost
     Total mark-to-market gain (loss)

Weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine net
periodic benefit cost:

Expected rate of return on plan assets

Actual rate of return on plan assets

Discount rate used for net periodic benefit cost

Discount rate at measurement date

Year Ended December 31,

2016
(1,953)
(732)
34
—
(2,651)

$

$

2015

2014

$

$

1,624
(1,550)
(133)
(59)
(118)

$

$

(954)
42
(150)
—
(1,062)

2016

2015

2014

8.65%

6.06%

4.81%

4.34%

8.66%

0.37%

4.36%

4.81%

8.66%

9.45%

5.24%

4.36%

The $2.651, $0.118 and $1.062 billion pre-tax mark-to-market losses for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 

2014, respectively, were comprised of the following components:

2016 - $2.651 billion pre-tax mark-to-market loss: 

•  Discount Rates ($1.953 billion pre-tax loss): The weighted-average discount rate for our pension and 

postretirement medical plans decreased from 4.81% at December 31, 2015 to 4.34% at December 31, 2016, 
primarily due to a decrease in credit spreads on AA-rated corporate bonds in 2016.

•  Return on Assets ($732 million pre-tax loss): In 2016, the actual 6.06% rate of return on plan assets fell short of 

our expected rate of return of 8.65%, primarily due to weak bond markets.

•  Demographic and Assumption Changes ($34 million pre-tax gain):  This represents the difference between actual 

and estimated participant data and demographic factors, including items such as health care cost trends, 
compensation rate increases and rates of termination, retirement and mortality.

2015 - $118 million pre-tax mark-to-market loss:  

•  Discount Rates ($1.624 billion pre-tax gain): The weighted-average discount rate for our pension and 

postretirement medical plans increased from 4.36% at December 31, 2014 to 4.81% at December 31, 2015, 
primarily due to an increase in U.S. treasury yields and credit spreads on AA-rated corporate bonds in 2015. 

•  Return on Assets ($1.550 billion pre-tax loss): In 2015, the actual 0.37% rate of return on plan assets fell short of 

our expected rate of return of 8.66%, primarily due to weak global equity markets.

•  Demographic and Assumption Changes ($133 million pre-tax loss):  This represents the difference between actual 

and estimated participant data and demographic factors, including items such as health care cost trends, 
compensation rate increases, and rates of termination, retirement and mortality.

•  Reclassification of Prior Year Unrecognized Benefit Cost ($59 million pre-tax loss):  Our mark-to-market 

accounting policy requires recognition of gains and losses in excess of a corridor equal to 10% of the plans' 
projected benefit obligations (or fair value of the plans' assets, if greater). The decrease in certain plans' projected 
benefit obligations resulted in a lower corridor, which required recognition of prior year unrecognized benefit 
costs for some of our plans.

26

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

2014 - $1.062 billion pre-tax mark-to-market loss: 

•  Discount Rates ($954 million pre-tax loss):  The weighted-average discount rate for our pension and 

postretirement medical plans declined from 5.24% at December 31, 2013 to 4.36% at December 31, 2014.  This 
overall decline in discount rates was primarily driven by a 122 basis point decline in the 30 year Treasury bond 
rate, but was partially offset by an increase in credit spreads on AA-rated 30 year bonds.

•  Return on Assets ($42 million pre-tax gain):  In 2014, the actual rate of return on plan assets of 9.45% exceeded 

our expected rate of return of 8.66%, primarily due to gains in the world equity markets.

•  Demographic and Assumption Changes ($150 million pre-tax loss):  The implementation of new U.S. mortality 
tables in 2014 resulted in an increased participant life expectancy assumption, which increased the overall 
projected benefit obligation for our plans.

Health and Welfare Plan Charges

In connection with the ratification of our national master agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters 
("Teamsters") in 2014, we incurred pre-tax charges totaling $1.102 billion associated with changes in the delivery of healthcare 
benefits to certain active and retired union employees. These one-time charges are discussed in further detail in the "Collective 
Bargaining Agreements" section and do not reflect the obligations of our on-going business. We believe adjusting for these 
charges provides important supplemental information that is reflective of long-term trends and that may provide useful 
comparison of year-to-year financial performance without considering the short-term impact of one-time health and welfare 
plan charges.

 These charges impacted our U.S. Domestic Package segment ($990 million), International Package segment ($28 

million) and Supply Chain & Freight segment ($84 million).

Rate Adjustments

Effective February 6, 2017, the U.S. fuel surcharge will be adjusted weekly and the U.S. Import fuel surcharge percentage 

will increase and be assessed independently of the U.S. Air and Export fuel surcharge.

Effective January 8, 2017, the Additional Handling charge will be assessed for any package with the longest side 
exceeding 48 inches, instead of 60 inches. Additionally, we will change the dimensional weight calculation for U.S. domestic 
services and UPS Standard from Canada import packages subject to UPS Daily rates. Also, transactional requests for refunds 
under the UPS Service Guarantee will not be paid where timely upload of package-level detail is not provided, as set forth in 
the UPS Tariff/Terms and Conditions of Service.

Effective December 26, 2016, UPS Ground rates and accessorial charges increased by an average net 4.9%. UPS Air and 
International services and accessorials, including UPS Air Freight rates within and between the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, 
increased an average net 4.9%.  UPS Freight's Density-Based rate tariff will increase an average net of 4.9%.

These rate changes are customary and occur on an annual basis. Rate changes for shipments originating outside the U.S. 

are made throughout the year and vary by geographic market.

Expense Allocations

Certain operating expenses are allocated between our reporting segments based on activity-based costing methods. These 
activity-based costing methods require us to make estimates that impact the amount of each expense category that is attributed 
to each segment. Changes in these estimates will directly impact the amount of expense allocated to each segment, and 
therefore the operating profit of each reporting segment. There were no significant changes in our expense allocation 
methodology during 2016, 2015 or 2014.

27

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

U.S. Domestic Package Operations

Average Daily Package Volume (in thousands):

Next Day Air

Deferred

Ground

Total Avg. Daily Package Volume

Average Revenue Per Piece:

Next Day Air

Deferred

Ground

Total Avg. Revenue Per Piece

Operating Days in Period

Revenue (in millions):

Next Day Air

Deferred

Ground

Total Revenue

Operating Expenses (in millions):

Operating Expenses

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charges

Health & Welfare Plan Charges

Adjusted Operating Expenses

Operating Profit (in millions) and Operating Margin:

Operating Profit

Adjusted Operating Profit

Operating Margin

Adjusted Operating Margin

Revenue

Year Ended December 31,

% Change

2016

2015

2014

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

1,379

1,351

13,515

16,245

1,316

1,313

12,969

15,598

1,274

1,155

12,893

15,322

$ 19.20

$ 19.66

$ 20.42

11.85

11.70

12.57

$

7.97

9.25
255

7.98

9.28
254

7.85

9.25
253

$ 6,752

$ 6,570

$ 6,581

4,082

27,467

3,903

26,274

3,672

25,598

$ 38,301

$36,747

$35,851

4.8 %

2.9 %

4.2 %

4.1 %

(2.3)%

1.3 %

(0.1)%

(0.3)%

2.8 %

4.6 %

4.5 %

4.2 %

3.3 %

13.7 %

0.6 %

1.8 %

(3.7)%

(6.9)%

1.7 %

0.3 %

(0.2)%

6.3 %

2.6 %

2.5 %

$ 35,284
(1,908)
—

$31,980
(62)
—

$ 33,376

$31,918

$32,992
(660)
(990)
$31,342

10.3 %

(3.1)%

4.6 %

1.8 %

$ 3,017

$ 4,767

$ 2,859

$ 4,925

$ 4,829

$ 4,509

(36.7)%

2.0 %

66.7 %

7.1 %

7.9%

12.9%

13.0%

13.1%

8.0%

12.6%

The change in overall revenue was impacted by the following factors for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, 

compared with the corresponding prior year periods:

Revenue Change Drivers:

2016/ 2015
2015/ 2014

Volume

Rates /
Product Mix

Fuel
Surcharge

Total
Revenue
Change

4.6%
2.2%

0.2%
2.7%

(0.6)%
(2.4)%

4.2%
2.5%

28

 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Volume

2016 compared to 2015 

Our total volume increased across all products in 2016, largely due to continued growth in e-commerce and overall retail 

sales and the impact of one additional operating day. Business-to-consumer shipments, which represented more than 48% of 
total U.S. Domestic Package volume, grew nearly 9% for the year and 11.5% in the fourth quarter, which drove increases in 
both air and ground shipments. Business-to-business volume remained flat in 2016 due to revenue management initiatives and 
the overall slowing of the industrial manufacturing sector, offset by increased volume from the retail industry, including the use 
of our solutions for omni-channel (including ship-from-store and ship-to-store models) and returns shipping.

Next Day Air volume increased 5.2% in 2016, due to strong growth in e-commerce. We also experienced increased 
volume for our deferred air services in 2016, particularly for those products most aligned with business-to-consumer shipping, 
such as our residential Second Day Air Package and Three Day Select products partially offset by decreases in our business-to-
business deferred air volume.

The increase in ground volume in 2016 was driven by growth in residential ground and SurePost volume while business-
to-business shipments remained flat. Accelerating growth in e-commerce drove demand for our SurePost service, with volume 
increasing 19% in 2016. 

2015 compared to 2014 

Our total volume increased in 2015, largely due to faster growing premium air products, continued growth in e-commerce 

and overall retail sales and the impact of one additional operating day. Business-to-consumer shipments, which represented 
more than 45% of total U.S. Domestic Package volume, grew nearly 3% for the year and drove increases in both air and ground 
shipments. Business-to-business volume grew 1% in 2015, largely due to increased volume from the retail industry including 
the use of our solutions for omni-channel (including ship-from-store and ship-to-store models) and returns shipping.

Among our air products, we experienced increased volume for our deferred air services in 2015, particularly for those 
products most aligned with business-to-consumer shipping, such as our residential Second Day Air Package and Three Day 
Select products. We also experienced solid growth in our business-to-business deferred air volume, largely due to increases in 
the retail sector. Next Day Air volume increased 3.3% in 2015, due to strong growth in e-commerce. 

The increase in ground volume in 2015 was driven by growth in residential ground and SurePost volume and business-to-

business shipping activity. The continued growth in e-commerce drove demand for our SurePost service, with volume 
increasing 3% in 2015. The increase in business-to-business ground volume was largely due to growth in omni-channel retail 
volume, the increased use of our returns service offerings and the growth in shipments from the retail sector.  

Rates and Product Mix

2016 compared to 2015 

Overall revenue per piece decreased 0.3% in 2016, and was impacted by changes in base rates, customer and product mix 

and fuel surcharge rates.

Ground revenue per piece decreased in 2016, primarily due to customer and product mix changes, which adversely 
impacted revenue per piece as a greater portion of volume in 2016, relative to 2015, came from residential customers and 
lighter-weight shipments as Surepost volume surged. Additionally, lower fuel surcharge rates contributed to the decline. These 
drivers more than offset the rate actions taken since the fourth quarter of 2015.  

Revenue per piece for Next Day Air products declined in 2016, while our deferred air products increased. All products 
were negatively impacted by lower fuel surcharge rates. The Next Day Air revenue per piece decline was caused by a shift in 
customer and product mix as well as an increase in lighter-weight packages. We experienced relatively stronger growth in our 
lighter-weight business-to-consumer shipments, particularly our Next Day Air Saver product, which have lower average yields 
than our heavier-weight commercial shipments. Customer mix also adversely impacted Next Day Air revenue per piece, due to 
faster volume growth among our larger customers, which have a lower average yield than our small and middle-market 
customers.  Deferred revenue per piece increased primarily due to heavier-weight packages partially offset by product mix.

29

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Revenue per piece for ground and air products was positively impacted by a base rate increase on December 28, 2015. 

UPS Ground rates and accessorial charges increased an average net 4.9%, while UPS Air services and accessorial charges 
increased an average net 5.2%. The surcharge increased for Over Maximum Packages and the index tables for the Ground and 
Air fuel surcharges were adjusted effective November 2, 2015. A charge for UPS’s Third-Party Billing Service was 
implemented, effective January 4, 2016. Additionally, the dimensions of ground packages incurring the UPS Additional 
Handling charge were changed effective June 6, 2016.

2015 compared to 2014 

Overall revenue per piece increased 0.3% in 2015, and was impacted by changes in base rates, customer and product mix 

and fuel surcharge rates.

Revenue per piece for our ground and air products was positively impacted by an increase in base rates which took effect 
on December 29, 2014 and an increase in surcharge rates that took effect November 2, 2015. We implemented an average 4.9% 
net increase in base and accessorial rates on UPS Next Day Air, UPS 2nd Day Air, UPS 3 Day Select and UPS Ground. 
Additionally, a pricing change involving the application of dimensional weight pricing to all UPS Ground services took effect 
on December 29, 2014. On November 2, 2015, the surcharge increased for Over Maximum Packages and the indices for 
Ground, Air and International fuel surcharges were adjusted.  

Revenue per piece decreased for our Next Day Air and deferred air products in 2015, as lower fuel surcharge rates more 

than offset the positive impact of the base rate increase. Product mix adversely impacted Next Day Air and deferred revenue 
per piece, as we experienced relatively stronger growth in our lighter-weight business-to-consumer shipments, which have 
lower average yields than our heavier-weight commercial shipments. Customer mix also adversely impacted Next Day Air and 
deferred revenue per piece, due to faster volume growth among our larger customers, which typically have a lower average 
yield than our small and middle-market customers. 

Ground revenue per piece increased in 2015, primarily due to the base rate increase, the dimensional weight pricing 
change and product mix. Additionally, the revenue per piece for our traditional ground residential products was positively 
impacted by our decision not to pursue certain lower-yielding customer contract renewals. These factors were partially offset 
by declines in fuel surcharge rates as well as changes in customer mix, as we experienced faster volume growth among our 
larger customers.

Fuel Surcharges

UPS applies a fuel surcharge on our domestic air and ground services. The air fuel surcharge is based on the U.S. 

Department of Energy’s (“DOE”) Gulf Coast spot price for a gallon of kerosene-type jet fuel, while the ground fuel surcharge is 
based on the DOE’s On-Highway Diesel Fuel Price. Based on published rates, the average fuel surcharge rates for domestic air 
and ground products were as follows:

Next Day Air / Deferred
Ground

Year Ended December 31,

% Point Change

2016

2015

2014

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

3.6%
4.9%

4.8%
5.5%

10.2%
7.1%

(1.2)%
(0.6)%

(5.4)%
(1.6)%

Total domestic fuel surcharge revenue decreased by $219 million in 2016 as a result of lower fuel surcharge rates caused 

by declining jet and diesel fuel prices, partially offset by the overall increase in package volume for the period. In 2015, total 
fuel surcharge revenue declined by $843 million as a result of lower fuel surcharge rates caused by declining jet and diesel fuel 
prices; however, the impact of lower fuel prices was partially mitigated by changes to the fuel surcharge indices, as well as the 
overall increase in package volume for the period.

30

 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Expenses

2016 compared to 2015 

Operating expenses for the period increased $3.3 billion, which included a $1.8 billion increase increase in mark-to-
market pension charges. Excluding the impact of the defined benefit plan mark-to-market charges, adjusted operating expenses 
for the segment increased $1.5 billion in 2016, primarily due to pick-up and delivery costs (up $814 million), the cost of 
operating our domestic integrated air and ground transportation network (up $282 million), the costs of package sorting (up 
$181 million) and accessorials and indirect operating costs (up $180 million). Adjusted operating expenses were impacted by 
several factors:

•  We incurred higher employee compensation, largely resulting from an increase in average daily union labor hours (up 

4.2%) and growth in the overall size of the workforce partially offset by lower wage rates. 

•  Employee benefit costs increased, largely due to increased employee healthcare, pension expense and workers' 

compensation expense.  

•  We incurred lower fuel expense in 2016 primarily due to lower fuel prices and an increase in average miles per gallon. 
This was partially offset by higher fuel usage (due to an increase in aircraft block hours and vehicle miles driven.)

•  We incurred higher expenses for purchased transportation due to higher volume, partially offset by lower fuel 

surcharge rates passed to us from third-party carriers. 

Total cost per piece increased 5.5% in 2016 compared to 2015 and was primarily impacted by a 540 basis point increase due to 
the defined benefit plan mark-to-market charge and the cost increases described previously. These increases were partially 
offset by the continued deployment of ORION, which has contained the growth of average daily vehicle miles driven, and the 
increased redirect of SurePost volume to optimize delivery density on UPS vehicles, which has reduced the delivery costs for 
business-to-consumer shipments. 

2015 compared to 2014 

Operating expenses decreased $1 billion in 2015, primarily due to $1.6 billion of health and welfare plan charges in 2014  

that did not recur in 2015 and significantly less pension mark-to-market charges in 2015 compared to 2014. Excluding the 
impact of the health and welfare plan charges and pension mark-to-market charges, adjusted operating expenses for the 
segment increased $576 million in 2015, primarily due to pick-up and delivery costs (up $602 million), the costs of package 
sorting (up $172 million) and indirect operating costs (up $122 million). The cost increases were partially offset by a reduction 
in the cost of operating our domestic integrated air and ground transportation network (down $319 million). These costs were 
impacted by several factors:

•  We incurred higher employee compensation, largely resulting from an increase in average daily union labor hours (up 

0.8%), union contractual wage rate increases and growth in the overall size of the workforce.

•  Employee benefit costs increased, largely due to increased employee healthcare, pension expense and workers 

compensation expense.  

•  We incurred lower fuel expense in 2015 primarily due to lower fuel prices. This was partially offset by higher fuel 
usage (due to an increase in aircraft block hours and vehicle miles driven offset by an increase in average miles per 
gallon). 

•  We incurred lower expenses associated with purchased transportation, primarily due to the decreased use of, and lower 

fuel surcharge rates passed to us from rail carriers and outside contract carriers.

Total cost per piece decreased 5.2% in 2015 compared to 2014 and was primarily impacted by a 480 basis point decrease due to 
the defined benefit plan mark-to-market charge and the cost increases described previously. Productivity improvements have 
continued to be realized through adjusting our air and ground networks to better match volume levels and utilizing technology 
to increase package sorting and delivery efficiency. The continued deployment of ORION has contained the average daily 
vehicle miles driven (down 0.4%) even as package volume increased (up 1.8%). 

31

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Profit and Margin

2016 compared to 2015 

Operating profit decreased $1.8 billion in 2016 compared with 2015, primarily due to a $1.8 billion increase in mark-to-
market pension charges to operating expense. Operating margin decreased 510 basis points to 7.9%. Adjusted operating profit 
increased $96 million in 2016 compared with 2015, while the adjusted operating margin decreased 20 basis points to 12.9%. 
Revenue growth from increased volume and enhanced productivity through the continued deployment of ORION technology 
resulted in higher operating profit, but was offset by an unfavorable shift in customer and product mix, especially in the fourth 
quarter. The net impact of fuel also negatively impacted operating profit as fuel surcharge revenue decreased faster than fuel 
expense.

2015 compared to 2014 

Operating profit increased $1.9 billion in 2015 compared with 2014, primarily due to $1.6 billion of health and welfare 
plan charges and pension mark-to-market charges that were significantly less in 2015. Operating margin increased 500 basis 
points to 13.0%. Adjusted operating profit increased $320 million in 2015 compared with 2014, while the adjusted operating 
margin increased 50 basis points to 13.1%. Overall volume growth allowed us to better leverage our transportation network, 
leading to improved productivity (resulting in a lower cost per piece) discussed previously. This was slightly offset by higher 
pension and healthcare costs, contractual union wage increases and the negative impact of fuel (fuel surcharge revenue 
decreased faster than fuel expense). 

32

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

International Package Operations

Average Daily Package Volume (in thousands):

Domestic
Export

Total Avg. Daily Package Volume

Average Revenue Per Piece:

Domestic
Export

Total Avg. Revenue Per Piece

Operating Days in Period
Revenue (in millions):

Domestic
Export
Cargo & Other

Total Revenue

Operating Expenses (in millions):

Operating Expenses

Defined Benefit Plan Mark-to-Market Charges

Health & Welfare Plan Charges

Adjusted Operating Expenses

Operating Profit (in millions) and Operating Margin:

Operating Profit
Adjusted Operating Profit
Operating Margin
Adjusted Operating Margin

Currency Translation Benefit / (Cost)—(in millions)*:

Revenue
Operating Expenses
Operating Profit

Year Ended December 31,

% Change

2016

2015

2014

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

1,635
1,210
2,845

$ 5.85
30.38
$ 16.29
255

$ 2,441
9,374
535
$12,350

1,575
1,151
2,726

$ 6.06
31.10
$ 16.63
254

$ 2,425
9,092
632
$12,149

1,579
1,115
2,694

$ 6.97
33.98
$ 18.15
253

$ 2,784
9,586
618
$12,988

$10,306
(425)
—
$ 9,881

$10,012
(44)
—
$ 9,968

$11,311
(200)
(28)
$11,083

3.8 %
5.1 %
4.4 %

(3.5)%
(2.3)%
(2.0)%

(0.3)%
3.2 %
1.2 %

(13.1)%
(8.5)%
(8.4)%

0.7 %
3.1 %
(15.3)%
1.7 %

(12.9)%
(5.2)%
2.3 %
(6.5)%

2.9 %

(11.5)%

(0.9)%

(10.1)%

$ 2,044
$ 2,469

$ 2,137
$ 2,181

$ 1,677
$ 1,905

(4.4)%
13.2 %

27.4 %
14.5 %

16.6%
20.0%

17.6%
18.0%

12.9%
14.7%

$ (138)
146
8

$

$ (880)
858
(22)

$

*

Net of currency hedging; amount represents the change compared to the prior year.

Revenue

The change in overall revenue was impacted by the following factors for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, 

compared with the corresponding prior year periods:

Revenue Change Drivers:

2016/ 2015
2015/ 2014

Volume

Rates /
Product Mix

Fuel
Surcharge

Currency

Total
Revenue
Change

4.8%
1.6%

(1.2)%
1.9 %

(0.8)%
(3.2)%

(1.1)%
(6.8)%

1.7 %
(6.5)%

33

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Volume

2016 compared to 2015 

Our overall average daily volume increased in 2016, largely due to continued strength in business-to-consumer volume, 

as well as strong demand from several sectors including retail, industrial, high-tech and healthcare.

We continued to experience export volume growth in 2016. The growth was mainly driven by our European and Asian 

operations, which experienced increases in volume to all regions of the world. European export volume increased in 2016, with 
particular strength in the Europe-to-U.S. and intra-Europe trade lanes. Asia export volume also increased in 2016, with growth 
in all trade lanes. However, U.S. export volume declined largely due to the impact of the stronger U.S. Dollar. Export volume 
growth was distributed across all products led by our Worldwide Express product. 

The increase in domestic volume in 2016 was primarily due to growth in Italy, France, Turkey and Mexico.

2015 compared to 2014 

Our overall average daily volume increased in 2015, largely due to continued strength in business-to-consumer volume, 

as well as strong demand from several sectors including healthcare and diversified vehicles and parts.

We continued to experience solid export volume growth in 2015. The growth was mainly driven by our European and 

Americas operations, which experienced solid increases in volume to most regions of the world. European export volume 
increased in 2015, with particular strength in the Europe-to-U.S., intra-European and Europe-to-Americas trade lanes. Americas 
export volume increased in 2015, with solid growth in the Americas-to-Europe and Americas-to-U.S. trade lanes. However, 
Asian export volume declined across all trade lanes due to the economic slowdown throughout the region, particularly China, 
while U.S. export volume declined largely due to the impact of the stronger U.S. Dollar. Export volume growth was led by our 
Transborder products, such as Transborder Standard and Transborder Express. 

Domestic volume in 2015 decreased slightly from 2014 driven by selective revenue management initiatives focused on 
disciplined growth. Additionally, the results were impacted by slowing overall economic conditions in Germany and Canada. 

Rates and Product Mix

2016 compared to 2015

Total average revenue per piece decreased 2.0% in 2016 impacted by a 110 basis point reduction from currency as well as 
lower fuel surcharge rates. These factors were partially offset by an increase in base rates, lower discounts and a shift in product 
mix as the growth in premium products continued to exceed the growth in our standard products. 

On December 28, 2015, we implemented an average 5.2% net increase in base and accessorial rates for international 

shipments originating in the United States (Worldwide Express, Worldwide Saver, UPS Worldwide Expedited and UPS 
International Standard service). On November 2, 2015, the surcharge increased for Over Maximum Packages and the tables for 
Ground, Air and International fuel surcharges were adjusted. Rate changes for shipments originating outside the U.S. are made 
throughout the year and vary by geographic market.

Export revenue per piece decreased 2.3% in 2016, impacted by a 50 basis point reduction from currency as well as lower 

fuel surcharge rates. These factors were partially offset by an increase in base rate, lower discounts and favorable package 
weight and characteristics.

Domestic revenue per piece decreased 3.5% in 2016, impacted by a 380 basis point reduction from currency as well as 

lower fuel surcharge rates. These factors were partially offset by an increase in base rates.

2015 compared to 2014

Total average revenue per piece decreased 8.4% in 2015 impacted by a 700 basis point reduction from currency as well as 

lower fuel surcharge revenues (discussed in detail under Fuel Surcharges). These factors were partially offset by the increases 
in base rates and revenue management activities. 

34

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

On December 29, 2014, we implemented an average 4.9% net increase in base and accessorial rates for international 

shipments originating in the United States (Worldwide Express, Worldwide Saver, UPS Worldwide Expedited and UPS 
International Standard service). Rate changes for shipments originating outside the U.S. are made throughout the year and vary 
by geographic market. 

Export revenue per piece decreased 8.5% in 2015 impacted by a 480 basis point reduction from currency as well as lower 

fuel surcharge revenues. These factors were partially offset by the increases in base rates and disciplined yield and growth 
initiatives in Europe.

Domestic revenue per piece decreased 13.1% in 2015 impacted by a 1,490 basis point reduction from currency as well as 
lower fuel surcharge revenues. These factors were partially offset by the increases to base rate and disciplined yield and growth 
initiatives in Europe and Canada.

Fuel Surcharges

We maintain fuel surcharges on our international air and ground services. The fuel surcharges for international air 
products originating inside or outside the United States are indexed to the DOE's Gulf Coast spot price for a gallon of kerosene-
type jet fuel, while the fuel surcharges for ground products originating outside the United States are indexed to fuel prices in the 
international region or country where the shipment takes place. 

Total international fuel surcharge revenue decreased by $119 million in 2016, primarily due to price reductions in the fuel 

surcharge indices; however, this was partially offset by an increase in volume and changes in mix. Total international fuel 
surcharge revenue decreased by $516 million in 2015, primarily due to lower fuel prices; however, this was partially offset by 
an increase in volume and pricing changes made to the fuel surcharge indices.

Operating Expenses

2016 compared to 2015

Overall operating expenses increased by $294 million, which included a $381 million increase in mark-to-market pension 
charges. Excluding the impact of the defined benefit plan mark-to-market charges, adjusted operating expenses for the segment 
decreased $87 million in 2016 primarily due to currency exchange rate movements and lower fuel expense.

Operating expenses were impacted by changes in the cost of operating our international integrated air and ground 
network, which decreased $40 million, as well as pick-up and delivery costs, which decreased $143 million. The decreases in 
network and pick-up and delivery costs were largely due to the impact of currency exchange rate movements and lower fuel 
expense. Network cost reductions were somewhat offset by an increase in aircraft block hours (up 1.2% in 2016), driven by a 
5.1% increase in international export volume and continuing air product service enhancements. 

Operating expenses were also impacted in 2016 by a $96 million increase in indirect overhead, package sorting costs and 

other gains and losses.The total cost per piece for the segment decreased 1.8% in 2016. 

2015 compared to 2014

Overall operating expenses decreased $1.299 billion in 2015, which included $156 million decrease due to mark-to-
market pension adjustments. Overall adjusted operating expenses for the segment decreased $1.115 billion in 2015. This 
decrease was mostly due to currency exchange rate movements ($858 million) and lower fuel expense.

 The decrease in operating expenses was impacted by the cost of operating our international integrated air and ground 

network, which decreased $617 million, as well as pick-up and delivery costs, which decreased $332 million. The decreases in 
network and pick-up and delivery costs were largely due to the impact of currency exchange rate movements, lower fuel 
expense and a reduction in expense for outside transportation carriers (due to lower fuel surcharges passed to us from the 
carriers). Additionally, network costs were mitigated by restraining the growth in aircraft block hours (down 1.1% in 2015), as a 
result of ongoing modifications to our air network; this was achieved with a 3.2% increase in international export volume and 
continuing air product service enhancements. 

35

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The remaining decrease in operating expenses in 2015 was largely due to reductions of indirect operating costs and the 

cost of package sorting. Indirect operating costs decreased $130 million and the cost of package sorting decreased by $36 
million. Both of these decreases were mainly attributable to the impact of currency.

The total cost per piece for the segment decreased 12.9% in 2015 impacted by a 147 basis point reduction in currency.

Operating Profit and Margin

2016 compared to 2015

Operating profit decreased $93 million in 2016 compared with 2015, which included a $381 million increase in operating 

expenses due to mark-to-market pension adjustments. Operating margin decreased 100 basis points to 16.6%. Adjusted 
operating profit increased by $288 million in 2016, while the adjusted operating margin increased 200 basis points to 20.0%. 
Operating profit and margin were positively affected by several factors including base rate increases, modifications to the fuel 
surcharge indices and currency exchange rate movements (including our currency hedging gains). 

2015 compared to 2014

Operating profit increased $460 million in 2015 compared with 2014, which included a $156 million decrease in 
operating expenses due to mark-to-market pension adjustments. Operating margin increased 470 basis points to 17.6%. 
Adjusted operating profit increased by $276 million in 2015, while the adjusted operating margin increased 330 basis points to 
18.0%. Operating profit and margin were positively affected by several factors including base rate increases, modifications to 
the fuel surcharge indices and the net impact of fuel (fuel expense declined at a faster rate than fuel surcharge revenue). These 
items were partially offset by the net impact of currency exchange rate movements (including our currency hedging gains), 
which reduced operating profit by $22 million when comparing 2015 with 2014.

36

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Supply Chain & Freight Operations

Freight LTL Statistics:
Revenue (in millions)
Revenue Per Hundredweight
Shipments (in thousands)
Shipments Per Day (in thousands)
Gross Weight Hauled (in millions of lbs)
Weight Per Shipment (in lbs)
Operating Days in Period

Revenue (in millions):

Forwarding and Logistics
Freight
Other

Total Revenue

Operating Expenses (in millions):

Operating Expenses

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charges

Health & Welfare Plan Charges

Adjusted Operating Expenses

Operating Profit (in millions) and Operating Margins:

Operating Profit
Adjusted Operating Profit
Operating Margin
Adjusted Operating Margin

Year Ended December 31,

% Change

2016

2015

2014

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

$ 2,384
$ 23.44
9,954
39.3
10,167
1,021
253

$ 6,793
2,736
726
$ 10,255

$ 2,479
$ 22.94
10,433
41.2
10,808
1,036
253

$ 5,900
2,881
686
$ 9,467

$ 2,633
$ 22.64
10,762
42.5
11,632
1,081
253

$ 5,758
3,048
587
$ 9,393

$ 9,849
(318)
—
$ 9,531

$ 8,703
(12)
—
$ 8,691

$ 8,961
(202)
(84)
$ 8,675

$
$

$
$

406
724
4.0%
7.1%

$
$

764
776
8.1%
8.2%

432
718
4.6%
7.6%

(3.8)%
2.2 %
(4.6)%
(4.6)%
(5.9)%
(1.4)%

15.1 %
(5.0)%
5.8 %
8.3 %

(5.8)%
1.3 %
(3.1)%
(3.1)%
(7.1)%
(4.2)%

2.5 %
(5.5)%
16.9 %
0.8 %

13.2 %

(2.9)%

9.7 %

0.2 %

(46.9)%
(6.7)%

76.9 %
8.1 %

Currency Translation Benefit / (Cost)—(in millions)*:

Revenue
Operating Expenses
Operating Profit

*

Amount represents the change compared to the prior year.

$

$

(56)
59
3

$

$

(249)
279
30

   In August 2015, we acquired Coyote Logistics Midco, Inc ("Coyote"), a truckload freight brokerage company. Coyote's 

financial results are included in the above table within Forwarding and Logistics from the date of the acquisition, which has 
impacted the year-over-year comparability of revenue, operating expenses and operating profit. 

In December 2016, we acquired Marken, a global provider of supply chain solutions to the life sciences industry and 

leader in clinical trials material storage and distribution. Marken's financial results are included in the above table within 
Forwarding and Logistics from the date of the acquisition and were not material to our results of operations. 

37

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Revenue

2016 compared to 2015

         Total revenue for the Supply Chain & Freight segment increased $788 million in 2016 compared to 2015. Forwarding and 
Logistics revenue increased $893 million in 2016 compared with 2015, primarily due to the Coyote acquisition midway through 
the third quarter of 2015. The increase was driven by Coyote, offset by a combination of volume and tonnage declines in our 
North American air freight and international air freight businesses (impacted by management focus to reduce lower-yielding 
accounts and softer market conditions). Additionally, revenue was adversely impacted by currency exchange rate movements 
and lower fuel surcharge rates (due to declining fuel prices). Revenue for our logistics products increased in 2016 as there was 
growth in our mail services and retail, aerospace, healthcare and automotive solutions.

UPS Freight revenue decreased $145 million in 2016, driven by lower tonnage (down 5.9% from the prior year) and a 
$73 million decrease in fuel surcharge revenue due to lower diesel fuel prices. The decline in shipments and the reduction in the 
weight per shipment were impacted by revenue management initiatives, an overall decline in market demand and customer mix. 
LTL revenue per hundredweight increased as LTL base rate increases averaging 4.9% took effect on October 26, 2015 and 
September 19, 2016.

Revenue for the other businesses within Supply Chain & Freight increased $40 million in 2016 due to revenue growth at 

UPS Capital Corporation, UPS Customer Solutions and the UPS Store. 

2015 compared to 2014

Total revenue for the Supply Chain & Freight segment increased $74 million in 2015 compared to 2014. Forwarding and 
Logistics revenue increased $142 million in 2015 compared with 2014 primarily due to the Coyote acquisition midway through 
the third quarter of 2015. The increase driven by Coyote was partially offset by adverse impact of currency exchange rate 
movements, lower fuel surcharge rates (due to declining fuel prices) and volume and tonnage declines in our North American 
air freight and international air freight businesses (impacted by management focus on reducing lower-yielding accounts). 
Revenue for our logistics products increased in 2015, as we experienced solid growth in our healthcare and aerospace solutions.

UPS Freight revenue decreased $167 million in 2015, driven by lower tonnage of 7.1% and a $157 million decrease in 
fuel surcharge revenue due to lower diesel fuel prices. The decline in average daily shipments and the reduction in weight per 
shipment was impacted by revenue management initiatives, customer mix and an overall decline in market demand. LTL 
revenue per hundredweight increased slightly, as LTL base rate increases averaging 4.9% took effect on December 29, 2014, 
covering non-contractual shipments in the United States, Canada and Mexico.   

Revenue for the other businesses within Supply Chain & Freight increased $99 million in 2015 due to revenue growth 

from our service contracts with the U.S Postal Service and at The UPS Store, UPS Capital and UPS Customer Solutions.

Operating Expenses

2016 compared to 2015

Supply Chain & Freight operating expenses for the period increased $1.1 billion, which included a $306 million increase 

in mark-to-market pension charges. Forwarding and Logistics operating expenses increased $910 million, largely due to the 
acquisition of Coyote during the third quarter of 2015 and the increase in mark-to-market pension adjustment, partially offset 
by the impact of currency exchange rate movements and lower fuel expense. Purchased transportation expense increased by 
$862 million compared to 2015 largely due to the acquisition of Coyote. These increases were partially offset by a combination 
of lower volume and tonnage in our North American air freight and international air freight forwarding businesses, lower buy 
rates due to softer market conditions and the impact of foreign exchange rates.  

UPS Freight operating expenses decreased $103 million in 2016 compared with 2015, primarily as a result of decreases in 

our network costs ($58 million) and pick-up and delivery costs ($34 million), offset in part by the increased mark-to-market 
pension charges. The declines in network costs and pick-up and delivery expenses were driven by a reduction in fuel expense 
and expense for outside transportation carriers (due to lower LTL volume and fuel surcharges passed to us by outside carriers). 
Total cost per LTL shipment increased by 2.7% compared with 2015 due to operating expenses declining at a faster rate than the 
reduction in tonnage and shipments.

38

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Other expenses for the other businesses within Supply Chain & Freight increased $33 million in 2016 compared with 

2015 primarily due to UPS Capital, UPS Customer Solutions and the UPS Store. 

2015 compared to 2014

Supply Chain & Freight operating expenses for the period decreased $258 million, which included a $190 million 
decrease due to the mark-to-market pension adjustments. Additionally, there were no health and welfare plan charges for 2015. 
Forwarding and Logistics operating expenses increased $91 million in 2015 compared with 2014. This increase was largely due 
to the acquisition of Coyote during the third quarter of 2015, partially offset by the impact of currency exchange rate 
movements, lower fuel expense and the mark-to-market adjustment. Purchased transportation expense increased by $37 million 
in 2015 due to the acquisition of Coyote offset by lower tonnage, fuel expense and the impact of foreign currency exchange 
rates. The remaining operating expense increase was related to several other expense categories, including payroll and benefits 
expense. 

UPS Freight operating expenses decreased $151 million in 2015 compared with 2014. Total cost per LTL shipment 
decreased 1.9%, which was partially offset by the decrease in the mark-to-market pension charges and health and welfare 
changes. The decrease in operating expense was also due to the cost associated with operating our linehaul network (which 
decreased $142 million) and decreases in pick-up and delivery expenses. The decreases in network costs and pick-up and 
delivery expenses were driven by a reduction in fuel expense and expense for outside transportation carriers (largely due to 
lower LTL volume and fuel surcharges passed to us from the carriers). 

Operating expenses for the other businesses within Supply Chain & Freight increased $76 million in 2015 compared with 

2014 primarily due to UPS Capital and our service contracts with the U.S. Postal Service.

Operating Profit and Margin

2016 compared to 2015

Supply Chain & Freight operating profit decreased $358 million in 2016 compared with 2015, which includes a $306 
million increase in the mark-to-market pension adjustments. Operating profit for Forwarding and Logistics, which includes 
Coyote, decreased $17 million in 2016 compared with 2015. Operating results for the North American air freight and 
international air freight forwarding businesses declined, as buy and sell spreads for capacity decreased. Profitability in ocean 
freight slightly declined due to margin compression from soft market conditions. Operating profit for the logistics unit 
increased slightly from 2016 compared to 2015. 

Operating profit for the freight unit decreased $42 million in 2016 compared with 2015, as a decline in tonnage and 

increase in pension cost more than offset the increased LTL revenue per hundredweight realized during the year. 

The combined operating profit for all of our other businesses in this segment increased $7 million in 2016, primarily due 

to higher operating profit at UPS Capital, UPS Customer Solutions and the UPS Store.

2015 compared to 2014

Supply Chain & Freight operating profit increased $332 million in 2015 compared with 2014, which includes a $190 

million decrease in the mark-to-market pension adjustments and a $84 million decrease in health and wealth plan change.  
Operating profit for the Forwarding and Logistics unit increased by $51 million in 2015 compared with 2014, primarily due to 
improved results in our international air business, partially offset by the impact of Coyote acquisition costs. The net impact of 
fuel costs and revenue management initiatives had a positive impact on operating profit. Operating results for the international 
air forwarding business improved, as the rates at which we procure capacity from third-party air carriers decreased faster than 
the rates we charge our customers. Profitability in our ocean freight unit grew largely as a result of transportation expense 
decreasing at a faster rate than the rates we charge our customers. However, operating profit for the logistics unit declined, as 
investments in technology and infrastructure continued to pressure distribution margins during 2015. 

 Operating profit for our freight unit decreased $16 million in 2015 compared with 2014, as declines in tonnage and 

increased pension costs more than offset the increased LTL revenue per hundredweight realized during the year.

The combined operating profit for all of our other businesses in this segment increased $23 million in 2015, primarily due 

to higher operating profit at UPS Capital and our service contracts with the U.S. Postal Service.

39

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Operating Expenses

Operating Expenses (in millions):

Compensation and Benefits:

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charges

Health & Welfare Plan Charges

Adjusted Compensation and Benefits

Repairs and Maintenance

Depreciation and Amortization

Purchased Transportation

Fuel
Other Occupancy

Other Expenses

Year Ended December 31,

% Change

2016

2015

2014

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

$ 34,770
(2,651)
—

$ 31,028
(118)
—

32,119

30,910

$ 32,045
(1,062)
(1,102)
29,881

12.1 %

(3.2)%

3.9 %

3.4 %

1,538

2,224

9,129

2,118
1,037

1,400

2,084

8,043

2,482
1,022

1,371

1,923

8,460

3,883
1,044

9.9 %

6.7 %

13.5 %

(14.7)%
1.5 %

2.1 %

8.4 %

(4.9)%

(36.1)%
(2.1)%

4,623

4,636

4,538

(0.3)%

2.2 %

Total Operating Expenses

Adjusted Total Operating Expenses

$ 55,439

$ 50,695

$ 53,264

$ 52,788

$ 50,577

$ 51,100

9.4 %

4.4 %

(4.8)%

(1.0)%

Currency Translation Cost / (Benefit)*

$

(205)

$ (1,137)

*

Amount represents the change compared to the prior year.

Compensation and Benefits

2016 compared to 2015

Total compensation and benefits increased $3.74 billion in 2016 compared to 2015. Excluding the impact of the defined 

benefit plans mark-to-market charges, adjusted compensation and benefits expense increased $1.21 billion in 2016.

  Employee payroll costs increased $609 million in 2016 compared with 2015, largely due to higher U.S. domestic hourly 

and management compensation costs and the acquisition of Coyote during the third quarter of 2015. Total compensation costs 
increased 3.2%, while consolidated average daily volume growth was 4.2%. U.S. domestic compensation costs for hourly 
employees increased largely due to increased headcount, contractual union wage increases and a 4.2% increase in average daily 
union labor hours. Compensation costs for management employees increased primarily due to merit salary increases and growth 
in the overall size of the workforce, partially offset by lower incentive compensation.

40

 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Benefits expense increased $3.13 billion in 2016 compared to 2015, primarily due to increased pension costs, health and 

welfare costs, workers' compensation expenses, vacation, holiday and excused absence expenses and payroll taxes. These 
factors are discussed further as follows:

• 

Pension costs increased $2.63 billion in 2016 compared to 2015, primarily due to $2.53 billion in defined benefit plans 
mark-to-market charges. Additionally, expenses increased for multiemployer pension plans due to increased 
contribution rates and headcount. 

•  Health and welfare costs increased $277 million in 2016, largely due to increased contributions to multiemployer plans 

resulting from contractual contribution rate increases and an overall increase in the size of the workforce. 

•  Vacation, holiday, excused absence and payroll tax expense increased $125 million in 2016, due to salary increases and 

growth in the overall size of the workforce.

•  Workers' compensation expense increased $96 million in 2016. Insurance reserves are established for estimates of the 

loss that we will ultimately incur on reported workers' compensation claims, as well as estimates of claims that have 
been incurred but not reported, and take into account a number of factors, including our history of claim losses, payroll 
growth and the impact of safety improvement initiatives. In 2015, we experienced more favorable actuarial 
adjustments, resulting in increased expense in 2016.  

2015 compared to 2014

Total compensation and benefits decreased $1.02 billion in 2015 compared to 2014. Excluding the impact of the defined 

benefit plans mark-to-market charges and the health and welfare plan charges, adjusted compensation and benefits expense 
increased $1.03 billion in 2015.

Employee payroll costs increased $351 million in 2015, compared with 2014, largely due to contractual union wage rate 

increases, a 1.2% increase in union labor hours, higher incentive compensation and a merit salary increase for management 
employees, partially offset by productivity improvements and the impact of currency exchange rates. The increase in average 
daily union labor hours was impacted by volume growth. Additionally, adverse weather conditions in the early part of 2014 
contributed to a decrease in labor hours in the comparison between 2015 and 2014.

Benefits expense decreased $1.37 billion in 2015 compared to 2014, primarily due to increased pension costs, health and 

welfare costs, workers' compensation expenses, vacation, holiday and excused absence expenses and payroll taxes. These 
factors are discussed further as follows:

• 

Pension cost decreased $605 million in 2015 compared to 2014, primarily due to a decrease of $944 million in defined 
benefit plans mark-to-market charges. The decrease in mark-to-market charges was partially offset by an increase in 
expenses in company-sponsored pension plans (largely due to lower discount rates used to determine ongoing pension 
cost for 2015) and multiemployer pension plans (due to both increased contribution rates and higher union labor 
hours).

•  Health and welfare costs decreased $834 million compared to 2014, largely due to a decrease of $1.10 billion related 
to the impact of the 2014 health and welfare plan charges. The decrease in plan charges was partially offset by 
contractual contribution rate increases and higher union labor hours.

•  Workers' compensation expense increased $36 million in 2015. Insurance reserves are established for estimates of the 

loss that we will ultimately incur on reported workers' compensation claims, as well as estimates of claims that have 
been incurred but not reported, and take into account a number of factors including our history of claim losses, payroll 
growth and the impact of safety improvement initiatives. In 2015, we experienced less favorable actuarial expense 
adjustments than the prior year as well as increased program costs and taxes.

•  Vacation, holiday and excused absence expense increased $32 million in 2015, due to an increase in the overall 

number of employees and increased vacation entitlements earned based on employees' years of service; however, these 
factors were partially offset by the impact of currency exchange rates.

41

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Repairs and Maintenance

2016 compared to 2015 

The $138 million increase in repairs and maintenance expense in 2016 was primarily due to an increase in airframe and 

aircraft engine maintenance resulting from increased air volume and increased vehicle maintenance costs in our global package 
and freight operations, primarily due to the growth in the size of our vehicle fleet.

2015 compared to 2014 

The $29 million increase in repairs and maintenance expense in 2015 was primarily due to an increase in airframe and 

aircraft engine repair and component replacement costs, largely in our Boeing 747 and 767 aircraft fleets. The remaining 
increase was largely due to increased vehicle maintenance costs in our global package and freight operations, primarily due to 
the growth in the size of our vehicle fleet.

Depreciation and Amortization

2016 compared to 2015 

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $140 million in 2016 compared with 2015, primarily due to the 
following factors: (1) depreciation expense for buildings and facilities increased due to leasehold improvements and purchases 
of new equipment; (2) increase in amortization expense largely due to new internally developed capitalized software, as well as 
intangible assets resulting from business acquisitions and (3) depreciation expense on vehicles increased due to the replacement 
of older, fully-depreciated vehicles, technology upgrades on new vehicles and an overall increase in the size of our vehicle fleet 
in our U.S. Domestic Package and UPS Freight operations.

2015 compared to 2014

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $161 million in 2015 compared with 2014, primarily due to three 
factors: (1) amortization expense increased largely due to new internally developed capitalized software, as well as intangible 
assets resulting from business acquisitions; (2) depreciation expense for buildings and facilities increased due to new leasehold 
improvements and purchases of new equipment and (3) depreciation expense on vehicles increased due to the replacement of 
older, fully-depreciated vehicles, technology upgrades on new vehicles and an overall increase in the size of our vehicle fleet in 
our U.S. Domestic Package and UPS Freight operations.

Purchased Transportation

2016 compared to 2015

The $1.086 billion increase in purchased transportation expense charged to us by third-party air, ocean and truck carriers 

in 2016 was driven by several factors:

•  Expense for our forwarding and logistics business increased $840 million in 2016, primarily due to the acquisition of 
Coyote and increased volume and rates for mail services; these items were partially offset by a combination of 
decreased volume and tonnage in our North American air freight and international air freight forwarding business, 
lower buy rates in international air freight due to softer market conditions and the impact of foreign currency exchange 
rates.

•  U.S. Domestic Package expense increased $130 million in 2016, primarily due to increased volume and rates, partially 

offset by lower fuel surcharges passed to us from rail carriers and outside contract carriers. 

• 

International Package expense increased $112 million in 2016, primarily due to increased usage of third-party carriers; 
this was partially offset by the impact of currency exchange rate movements as well as lower fuel surcharges passed to 
us from outside transportation providers. 

•  UPS Freight expense decreased $18 million in 2016, largely due to decreased LTL shipments and the resulting 

decreased use of, and lower fuel surcharges passed to us from, outside transportation carriers.  

42

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

2015 compared to 2014

The $417 million decrease in purchased transportation expense charged to us by third-party air, ocean and truck carriers in 

2015 was driven by several factors:

•  U.S. Domestic Package expense decreased $322 million in 2015, primarily due to the decreased use of, and lower fuel 
surcharge rates passed to us from rail carriers and outside contract carriers. Additionally, adverse weather conditions in 
the early months of 2014 resulted in the additional use of outside contract carriers, which impacted the comparison 
with 2015.

• 

International Package expense decreased $64 million in 2015, primarily due to to the impact of currency exchange rate 
movements and lower fuel surcharges passed from outside transportation providers. These factors were partially offset 
by international volume growth.  

•  UPS Freight expense decreased $68 million in 2015, largely due to decreased LTL shipments and fuel efficiency, and 

the resulting decreased use of, and lower fuel surcharges passed to us from, outside transportation carriers.  

•  The expense for Forwarding and Logistics and other businesses increased $37 million in 2015 primarily due to the 
acquisition of Coyote; however, this was offset by the impact of decreased volume and tonnage in our international 
and North American air freight businesses, the impact of currency exchange movements and lower fuel surcharges 
passed to us from outside transportation providers.   

Fuel

2016 compared to 2015

The $364 million decrease in fuel expense in 2016 was primarily due to lower jet fuel, diesel and unleaded gasoline 

prices, which decreased fuel expense by $461 million. The lower fuel prices were partially offset by increased fuel 
consumption, primarily due to increases in total aircraft block hours and Domestic Package delivery stops (due to higher 
volume), which increased expense by $97 million and lower alternative fuel and tax credits. 

2015 compared to 2014

The $1.401 billion decrease in fuel expense in 2015 was primarily due to lower fuel prices, which decreased fuel expense 

by $1.383 billion. Increases in fuel efficiency, fuel hedging activities, alternative fuel credits and fewer miles driven by UPS 
Freight and International Package decreased expense by $99 million. These decreases were partially offset by an increase of 
$82 million related to increases in aircraft block hours and Domestic Package delivery stops and miles driven due to higher 
volume.

Other Occupancy

2016 compared to 2015

The $15 million increase in other occupancy expense in 2016 was largely due to higher facility rent expense, partially 

offset by lower utilities and snow removal costs at our operating facilities. 

2015 compared to 2014

The $22 million decrease in other occupancy expense in 2015 was largely due to a decrease in facility rent expense and 

utility costs, but partially offset by an increase in facility maintenance expense. 

43

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Other Expenses

2016 compared to 2015

The $13 million decrease in other expenses in 2016 was largely due to a decrease in overall auto liability insurance, offset 

by an increase in outside professional services.

2015 compared to 2014

The $98 million increase in other expenses in 2015 was caused by a number of factors. Automotive liability insurance

expense increased $36 million largely due to established estimates of the loss that will ultimately be incurred on reported 
claims, as well as estimates of claims that have been incurred but not reported, and take into account a number of factors 
including our history of claim losses. Outside professional service fees increased $16 million primarily due to transaction costs 
associated with Coyote. Advertising expense increased $15 million mostly driven by the "United Problem Solver" campaign.  
We also incurred increases in several other expense categories, including software license fees, computer supplies and 
employee expense reimbursement. These increases were partially offset by lower bad debt expense and other items.

44

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Investment Income and Interest Expense

The following table sets forth investment income and interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 

2014 (in millions):

Investment Income and Other
Interest Expense

Investment Income and Other

2016 compared to 2015

Year Ended December 31,

% Change

2016

2015

2014

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

$
$

50
$
(381) $

15
$
(341) $

22
(353)

NA
11.7%

(31.8)%
(3.4)%

The growth in investment income and other in 2016 as compared to 2015 was primarily due to a decrease in losses from 

fair value adjustments on real estate partnerships, higher interest income and unrealized gains on investments and a benefit 
from foreign currency exchange rate movements.

2015 compared to 2014

The decrease in investment income was primarily due to lower realized gains on the sale of investments in 2015 
compared with 2014, and a decline in interest income. This was partially offset by a decrease in losses from fair value 
adjustments on real estate partnerships.

Interest Expense

2016 compared to 2015

Interest expense increased in 2016 as compared to 2015 primarily due to an increase in average outstanding commercial 

paper balances, an increase in long-term debt and higher effective interest rates on senior notes. 

2015 compared to 2014

Interest expense decreased in 2015 compared with 2014 largely due to a decrease in effective interest rates related to the 

termination of our British Pound Sterling cross-currency interest rate swaps, the prior year repayment of senior notes at 
maturity and the impact of foreign currency. This was partially offset by an increase in average outstanding commercial paper 
and long-term debt. 

45

 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Income Tax Expense

The following table sets forth income tax expense and our effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 

and 2014 (in millions):

Income Tax Expense:

Income Tax Impact of:

Year Ended December 31,    

% Change

2016
$ 1,705

2015
$ 2,498

2014
$ 1,605

2016/ 2015

2015/ 2014

(31.7)%

55.6%

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charge
Health & Welfare Plan Charges

Adjusted Income Tax Expense

Effective Tax Rate
Adjusted Effective Tax Rate

978
—
$ 2,683

39
—
$ 2,537

392
415
$ 2,412

33.2%
34.5%

34.0%
34.0%

34.6%
35.5%

5.8 %

5.2%

Our effective tax rate is affected by recurring factors, such as statutory tax rates in the jurisdictions we operate in and the 

relative amounts of taxable income we earn in those jurisdictions. It is also affected by discrete items that may occur in any 
given year but may not be consistent from year to year.  

Our effective tax rate decreased to 33.2% in 2016, compared with 34.0% in 2015 and 34.6% in 2014, primarily due to the 

effects of the following discrete tax items and recurring factors:

2016 Discrete Items

         In the fourth quarter of 2016, we recognized an income tax benefit of $978 million related to pre-tax mark-to-market 
losses of $2.651 billion on our pension and postretirement defined benefit plans. This income tax benefit was generated at a 
higher average statutory tax rate than the U.S. federal statutory tax rate because it included the effect of U.S. state and local 
taxes. 

2015 Discrete Items

During the third quarter of 2015 and after the filing of our annual federal tax returns, we reconciled our deferred tax 
balances and identified adjustments to be made with respect to prior years’ deferred tax balances. The adjustments resulted in a 
reduction of income tax expense of $66 million.

In connection with our acquisition of Coyote Logistics (see note 7), we distributed $500 million of cash held by a 
Canadian subsidiary to its U.S. parent during the fourth quarter of 2015. As a result of the distribution, we recorded additional 
net income tax expense of $28 million. 

In the fourth quarter of 2015, we recognized an income tax benefit of $39 million related to pre-tax mark-to-market losses 

of $118 million on our pension and postretirement defined benefit plans. This income tax benefit was generated at a lower 
average statutory tax rate than our U.S. federal statutory tax rate because it was due, in part, to non-U.S. benefit plans. 

Other favorable rate impacting items in 2015 include: resolution of several U.S. state and local tax matters; the extension 

of favorable U.S. federal tax provisions associated with the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 related to 
research and development tax credits and work opportunity tax credits; and the execution of two bilateral advance pricing 
agreements. These agreements established intercompany transfer pricing arrangements between the U.S. and certain non-U.S. 
jurisdictions related to our small package operations for tax years 2010 through 2019. 

2014 Discrete Items

In 2014, we recorded a $415 million tax benefit related to a pre-tax charge of $1.102 billion for certain health and welfare 

plan changes (see note 5). This income tax benefit was generated at a higher average statutory tax rate than our U.S. federal 
statutory tax rate because it included the effect of U.S. state and local taxes. 

46

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

In the fourth quarter of 2014, we recognized an income tax benefit of $392 million related to pre-tax mark-to-market 
losses of $1.062 billion on our pension and postretirement defined benefit plans. This income tax benefit was generated at a 
higher average statutory tax rate than the U.S. federal statutory tax rate because it included the effect of U.S. state and local 
taxes. 

As described in the Items Affecting Comparability section, certain items have been excluded from comparisons of 

"adjusted" income taxes in the discussion that follows.  

2016 compared to 2015 

Our adjusted effective tax rate increased to 34.5% in 2016 from 34.0% in 2015 primarily due to a decrease in favorable 

discrete tax adjustments relative to 2015 partially offset by favorable changes in the proportion of our taxable income in certain 
U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions relative to total pre-tax income. 

2015 compared to 2014 

Our adjusted effective tax rate decreased to 34.0% in 2015 from 35.5% in 2014 primarily due to favorable discrete tax 

adjustments related to: (1) prior years' deferred tax balances; (2) execution of advance pricing agreements with certain foreign 
tax jurisdictions; (3) resolution of several U.S. state and local tax matters; and (4) the extension of several previously expired 
U.S. tax provisions in 2015. These benefits were partially offset by the additional U.S. tax expense associated with a cash 
distribution from a Canadian subsidiary to its U.S. parent. 

47

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

The following is a summary of the significant sources (uses) of cash from operating activities (amounts in millions):

Net Income

Non-cash operating activities(a)
Pension and postretirement plan contributions (UPS-sponsored plans)
Settlement of postretirement benefit obligation
Hedge margin receivables and payables
Income tax receivables and payables
Changes in working capital and other non-current assets and liabilities
Other operating activities
Net cash from operating activities

2016
3,431
6,444
(2,668)
—
(142)
(505)
(62)
(25)
6,473

$

$

2015
4,844
4,122
(1,229)
—
170
(6)
(418)
(53)
7,430

$

$

2014
$ 3,032
5,901
(1,258)
(2,271)
421
(224)
91
34
$ 5,726

(a) 

Represents depreciation and amortization, gains and losses on derivative transactions and foreign exchange, deferred income taxes, provisions for 
uncollectible accounts, pension and postretirement benefit expense, stock compensation expense and other non-cash items.

Cash from operating activities remained strong throughout 2014 to 2016. Operating cash flow was adversely impacted by 

$1.527 billion in 2014 and $33 million in 2015 due to certain transactions resulting from the ratification of our collective 
bargaining agreement with the Teamsters. These transactions are discussed further in the "Collective Bargaining Agreements" 
section:

•  We paid $2.271 billion in 2014 to settle postretirement benefit obligations for certain union employees.

•  We paid $176 million in 2014 for retroactive economic benefits under the collective bargaining agreement that were 

related to the period between August through December of 2013.

•  During 2014, we received cash tax benefits of $920 million from the items described above (through reduced U.S. 

Federal and state quarterly income tax payments).

•  We paid $53 million in 2015 for additional retroactive economic benefits under the collective bargaining agreement 
and we received $20 million of cash tax benefits (through reduced U.S. Federal and state quarterly income tax 
payments) from the payment. 

Most of the remaining variability in operating cash flows during the 2014 to 2016 time period relates to the funding of 

our company-sponsored pension and postretirement benefit plans (and related cash tax deductions). Except for discretionary or 
accelerated fundings of our plans, contributions to our company-sponsored pension plans have largely varied based on whether 
any minimum funding requirements are present for individual pension plans.

•  We made discretionary contributions to our three primary company-sponsored U.S. pension plans totaling $2.461, 

$1.030 and 1.042 billion in 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

•  The remaining contributions from 2014 to 2016 were largely due to contributions to our international pension plans 

and U.S. postretirement medical benefit plans. 

Apart from the transactions described above, operating cash flow was impacted by changes in our working capital 
position, payments for income taxes and changes in hedge margin payables and receivables. Cash payments for income taxes 
were $2.064, $1.913 and $1.524 billion for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and were primarily impacted by the timing of 
current tax deductions. The net hedge margin collateral (paid)/received from derivative counterparties was $(142), $170 and 
$421 million during 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, due to changes in the fair value of the derivative contracts used in our 
currency and interest rate hedging programs.

48

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

As of December 31, 2016, the total of our worldwide holdings of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities were 

$4.567 billion, of which $2.192 billion was held by foreign subsidiaries. The amount of cash, cash equivalents and marketable 
securities held by our U.S. and foreign subsidiaries fluctuates throughout the year due to a variety of factors, including the 
timing of cash receipts and disbursements in the normal course of business. Cash provided by operating activities in the United 
States continues to be our primary source of funds to finance domestic operating needs, capital expenditures, share repurchases 
and dividend payments to shareowners. To the extent that such amounts represent previously untaxed earnings, the cash, cash 
equivalents and marketable securities held by foreign subsidiaries would be subject to tax if such amounts were repatriated in 
the form of dividends; however, not all international balances would have to be repatriated in the form of a dividend if returned 
to the U.S. When amounts earned by foreign subsidiaries are expected to be indefinitely reinvested, no accrual for taxes is 
provided. 

Cash Flows From Investing Activities

Our primary sources (uses) of cash for investing activities were as follows (amounts in millions):

Net cash used in investing activities
Capital Expenditures:
Buildings and facilities
Aircraft and parts
Vehicles
Information technology
Total Capital Expenditures:
Capital Expenditures as a % of Revenue

Other Investing Activities:
Proceeds from disposals of property, plant and equipment
Net decrease in finance receivables
Net (purchases) sales of marketable securities
Cash paid for business acquisitions
Other investing activities

2016
(2,566)

(1,316)
(350)
(864)
(435)
(2,965)

4.9%

88
9
908
(547)
(59)

$

$

$

$
$
$
$
$

2015
(5,309)

(996)
(27)
(936)
(420)
(2,379)

4.1%

26
5
(1,027)
(1,904)
(30)

$

$

$

$
$
$
$
$

2014
(2,801)

(808)
(44)
(1,061)
(415)
(2,328)

4.0%

53
44
(419)
(88)
(63)

$

$

$

$
$
$
$
$

We have commitments for the purchase of aircraft, vehicles, equipment and real estate to provide for the replacement of 

existing capacity and anticipated future growth. We generally fund our capital expenditures with our cash from operations. 
Future capital spending for anticipated growth and replacement assets will depend on a variety of factors, including economic 
and industry conditions. We anticipate that our capital expenditures for 2017 will be approximately $4 billion.

Capital spending on aircraft increased in 2016 compared to the 2014 to 2015 periods, due to firm commitments to 
purchase 14 new Boeing 747-8F cargo aircraft. Capital spending on vehicles decreased during the 2014 to 2016 period in our 
U.S. and international package businesses and our freight unit, largely due to the timing of vehicle replacements. Capital 
expenditures on buildings and facilities also increased in the 2014 to 2016 period, and included hub automation and capacity 
expansion projects in the U.S. during 2016, as well as expansion and new construction projects at facilities in Europe and Asia. 

The proceeds from the disposal of property, plant and equipment were largely due to proceeds from insurance recoveries 

in 2014 to 2016. The net decline in finance receivables in the 2014 to 2016 period was primarily due to customer paydowns and 
loan sales activity, primarily in our commercial lending, asset-based lending and leasing portfolios. The purchases and sales of 
marketable securities are largely determined by liquidity needs and the periodic rebalancing of investment types and will 
fluctuate from period to period.

Cash paid for business acquisitions in the 2014 to 2016 period was largely due to the acquisitions of i-parcel LLC (2014), 

Polar Speed Distribution Limited (2014), Poltraft Sp. z.o.o. (2015), Parcel Pro, Inc. (2015), Coyote Logistics Midco, Inc. 
(2015) and Marken (2016), as well as other smaller acquisitions. 

49

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Other investing activities are impacted by changes in our non-current investments and restricted cash balances, capital 

contributions into certain investment partnerships and various other items. In 2016, 2015 and 2014, we increased the non-
current investments and restricted cash balance associated with our self-insurance requirements by $3, $0 and $17 million, 
respectively.  

Cash Flows From Financing Activities

Our primary sources (uses) of cash for financing activities were as follows (amounts in millions, except per share data):

Net cash used in financing activities
Share Repurchases:
Cash expended for shares repurchased
Number of shares repurchased
Shares outstanding at year-end
Percent reduction in shares outstanding
Dividends:
Dividends declared per share
Cash expended for dividend payments
Borrowings:
Net borrowings (repayments) of debt principal
Other Financing Activities:
Cash received for common stock issuances
Other financing activities
Capitalization:
Total debt outstanding at year-end
Total shareowners’ equity at year-end
Total capitalization

2016
(3,140)

(2,678)
(25.4)
868
(2.0)%

3.12
(2,643)

2,034

245
(98)

$

$

$
$

$

$
$

2015
(1,565)

(2,702)
(26.8)
886
(2.1)%

2.92
(2,525)

3,588

249
(175)

$

$

$
$

$

$
$

2014
(5,161)

(2,695)
(26.4)
905
(2.0)%

2.68
(2,366)

(169)

274
(205)

$

$

$
$

$

$
$

$ 16,075
429
$ 16,504

$ 14,334
2,491
$ 16,825

$ 10,779
2,158
$ 12,937

 In May 2016, the Board of Directors approved a share repurchase authorization of $8.0 billion, which replaced an 
authorization previously announced in 2013.The share repurchase authorization has no expiration date. During the first quarter 
of 2016, we exercised a capped call option that we entered into in 2015, which allowed us to repurchase 0.2 million class B 
shares. The $25 million premium payment for this capped call option was classified as other financing activities in 2015.  As of 
December 31, 2016, we had $6.155 billion of this share repurchase authorization remaining. Share repurchases may take the 
form of accelerated share repurchases, open market purchases, or other such methods as we deem appropriate. The timing of 
our share repurchases will depend upon market conditions. Unless terminated earlier by the resolution of our Board, the 
program will expire when we have purchased all shares authorized for repurchase under the program. We anticipate 
repurchasing approximately $1.8 billion of shares in 2017.

The declaration of dividends is subject to the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend on various factors, 
including our net income, financial condition, cash requirements, future prospects and other relevant factors. We expect to 
continue the practice of paying regular cash dividends. In February 2017, we increased our quarterly dividend payment from 
$0.78 to $0.83 per share, a 6% increase.

Issuances of debt in 2016 consisted of floating rate senior notes totaling $226 million, two series of fixed rate senior notes 

each $500 million and euro denominated fixed rate senior note totaling €500 million ($549 million). Issuances of debt in 2015 
consisted of floating rate senior notes totaling $144 million, euro denominated floating rate senior notes totaling €500 millio n 
($547 million), euro denominated fixed rate senior notes totaling €700 million ($765 million) and facility bonds associated wit h 
our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania airport facilities totaling $100 million. The remainder consisted primarily of commercial paper. 
Issuances of debt in 2014 consisted primarily of commercial paper.   

50

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

In 2016, there were no repayments of fixed rate senior notes and floating rate senior notes. Repayments of debt in 2015 
consisted primarily of the maturity of our $100 million facility bonds associated with our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania airport 
facilities. Repayments of debt in 2014 consisted primarily of the maturity of our $1.0 billion senior fixed rate notes in April 
2014. The remaining repayments of debt during the 2014 through 2016 time period included paydowns of commercial paper 
and scheduled principal payments on our capitalized lease obligations. We consider the overall fixed and floating interest rate 
mix of our portfolio and the related overall cost of borrowing when planning for future issuances and non-scheduled 
repayments of debt.

        The amount of commercial paper outstanding fluctuates throughout the year based on daily liquidity needs. The following 
is a summary of our commercial paper program (amount in millions):

2016

USD
EUR

GBP

Total

2015

USD

EUR

GBP

Total

2014

USD

Outstanding balance
at year-end

Outstanding balance
at year-end

Average balance
outstanding

Average balance
outstanding

Average interest rate

$

£

2,406
801

$
$

— $

$

2,406
844

— £

1,838
776

$

94

$

$

1,838
817

116

0.44 %

(0.28)%

0.5 %

$

3,250

Outstanding balance
at year-end

Outstanding balance
at year-end

Average balance
outstanding

Average balance
outstanding

Average interest rate

$

£

2,279

$

310

$

234

$

$

$

£

2,279

339

347

2,965

2,159

10

$

241

$

$

2,159

11

368

0.13 %

(0.09)%

0.5 %

Outstanding balance
at year-end

Outstanding balance
at year-end

Average balance
outstanding

Average balance
outstanding

Average interest rate

$

772

$

772

$

1,356

$

1,356

0.1%

The variation in cash received from common stock issuances was primarily due to the level of stock option exercises by 

employees in the 2014 through 2016 period. 

The cash outflows in other financing activities were impacted by several factors. Net cash outflows from the premium 

payments and settlements of capped call options for the purchase of UPS class B shares were $(54), $(17) and $(47) million for 
2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Cash outflows related to the repurchase of shares to satisfy tax withholding obligations on 
vested employee stock awards were $167, $217, and $224 million for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. 

51

€
€
€
€
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Sources of Credit

See note 8 to the audited consolidated financial statements for a discussion of our available credit and debt covenants.

Guarantees and Other Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have guarantees or other off-balance sheet financing arrangements, including variable interest entities, which 

we believe could have a material impact on financial condition or liquidity.

Contractual Commitments

We have contractual obligations and commitments in the form of capital leases, operating leases, debt obligations, 

purchase commitments and certain other liabilities. We intend to satisfy these obligations through the use of cash flow from 
operations. The following table summarizes the expected cash outflow to satisfy our contractual obligations and commitments 
as of December 31, 2016 (in millions): 

Commitment Type
Capital Leases
Operating Leases
Debt Principal
Debt Interest
Purchase Commitments
Pension Fundings
Other Liabilities
Total

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

$

72
368
3,635
362
1,358
2,291
10
$ 8,096

$

70
302
756
345
1,151
—
5
$ 2,629

$

62
221
1,001
315
758
—
—
$ 2,357

$

56
168
528
286
286
—
—
$ 1,324

$

39
111
1,501
273
17
—
—
$ 1,941

After 2021
370
$
300
8,136
4,302
45
—
—
$ 13,153

Total

$

669
1,470
15,557
5,883
3,615
2,291
15
$ 29,500

Our capital lease obligations relate primarily to leases on aircraft. Capital leases, operating leases, and purchase 

commitments, as well as our debt principal obligations, are discussed further in note 8 to our consolidated financial statements. 
The amount of interest on our debt was calculated as the contractual interest payments due on our fixed-rate debt, in addition to 
interest on variable rate debt that was calculated based on interest rates as of December 31, 2016. The calculations of debt 
interest take into account the effect of interest rate swap agreements. For debt denominated in a foreign currency, the 
U.S. Dollar equivalent principal amount of the debt at the end of the year was used as the basis to calculate future interest 
payments.

Purchase commitments represent contractual agreements to purchase assets, goods or services that are legally binding, 
including contracts for aircraft, construction of new or expanded facilities and orders for technology equipment and vehicles. As 
of December 31, 2016, we have firm commitments to purchase 14 new Boeing 747-8F cargo aircraft. The 14 aircraft are to be 
delivered between 2017 and 2020. Options for 14 additional 747-8F cargo aircraft are also included in the contract, but are not 
included in the commitment table above.  

Pension fundings represent a voluntary contribution for 2017. There are no anticipated required minimum cash 
contributions to our qualified U.S. pension plans (these plans are discussed further in note 4 to the consolidated financial 
statements). The amount of any minimum funding requirement, as applicable, for these plans could change significantly in 
future periods, depending on many factors, including future plan asset returns, discount rates and changes to pension plan 
funding regulations. A decline in discount rates or a sustained significant decline in the world equity or bond markets could 
result in our domestic pension plans being subject to significantly higher minimum funding requirements. Actual contributions 
made in future years could materially differ from the amounts shown in the table above, and consequently required minimum 
contributions beyond 2019 cannot be reasonably estimated. 

As discussed in note 5 to our consolidated financial statements, we are not currently subject to any minimum 

contributions or surcharges with respect to the multiemployer pension and health and welfare plans in which we participate. 
Contribution rates to these multiemployer pension and health and welfare plans are established through the collective 
bargaining process. As we are not subject to any minimum contribution levels, we have not included any amounts in the 
contractual commitments table with respect to these multiemployer plans.

52

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The contractual payments due for “other liabilities” primarily include commitment payments related to our investment in 

certain partnerships. The table above does not include approximately $200 million of liabilities for uncertain tax positions 
because we are uncertain if or when such amounts will ultimately be settled in cash. Uncertain tax positions are further 
discussed in note 13 to the consolidated financial statements.

As of December 31, 2016, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling approximately $1.89 billion issued in connection 
with our self-insurance reserves and other routine business requirements. We also issue surety bonds as an alternative to letters 
of credit in certain instances, and as of December 31, 2016, we had $730 million of surety bonds written. As of December 31, 
2016, we had unfunded loan commitments totaling $149 million associated with UPS Capital.

We believe that funds from operations and borrowing programs will provide adequate sources of liquidity and capital 
resources to meet our expected long-term needs for the operation of our business, including anticipated capital expenditures, for 
the foreseeable future.

Contingencies

See note 4 to the audited consolidated financial statements for a discussion of pension related matters and note 9 for a 

discussion of judicial proceedings and other matters arising from the conduct of our business activities. 

Collective Bargaining Agreements

Status of Collective Bargaining Agreements

As of December 31, 2016, we had approximately 268,000 employees employed under a national master agreement and 

various supplemental agreements with local unions affiliated with the Teamsters. During 2014, the Teamsters ratified a new 
national master agreement (“NMA”) with UPS that will expire on July 31, 2018. The economic provisions in the NMA 
included wage rate increases, as well as increased contribution rates for healthcare and pension benefits. Most of these 
economic provisions were retroactive to August 1, 2013, which was the effective date of the NMA. In the second quarter of 
2014, we remitted $278 million for these retroactive economic benefits; this payment had an immaterial impact on net income, 
as these retroactive economic benefits had been accrued since the July 31, 2013 expiration of the prior agreement.  

In addition to the retroactive economic provisions of the NMA, there were certain changes to the delivery of healthcare 

benefits that were effective at various dates. These changes impact approximately 36,000 full-time and 73,000 part-time active 
employees covered by the NMA and the UPS Freight collective bargaining agreement (collectively referred to as the “NMA 
Group”), as well as approximately 16,000 employees covered by other collective bargaining agreements (the “Non-NMA 
Group”). These provisions are discussed further below in the "Changes to the Delivery of Active and Postretirement Healthcare 
Benefits" section.  

We have approximately 2,600 pilots who are employed under a collective bargaining agreement with the Independent 
Pilots Association ("IPA"), which became amendable at the end of 2011. On August 31, 2016, the IPA members voted to ratify a 
new five-year labor contract. Terms of the agreement became effective September 1, 2016 and run through September 1, 2021. 
The economic provisions in the agreement included pay increases, a signing bonus and enhanced pension benefits.

Our airline mechanics are covered by a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 2727, which became 
amendable November 1, 2013. We are currently in negotiations with Teamsters Local 2727. In addition, approximately 3,000 of 
our auto and maintenance mechanics who are not employed under agreements with the Teamsters are employed under 
collective bargaining agreements with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (“IAM”) that will 
expire on July 31, 2019. 

Multiemployer Benefit Plans

We contribute to a number of multiemployer defined benefit and health and welfare plans under terms of collective 
bargaining agreements that cover our union represented employees. Our current collective bargaining agreements set forth the 
annual contribution increases allotted to the plans that we participate in, and we are in compliance with these contribution rates. 
These limitations will remain in effect throughout the terms of the existing collective bargaining agreements.

53

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Changes to the Delivery of Active and Postretirement Healthcare Benefits

Prior to ratification, the NMA Group and Non-NMA Group employees received their healthcare benefits through UPS-
sponsored active and postretirement health and welfare benefit plans. Effective June 1, 2014, we ceased providing healthcare 
benefits to active NMA Group employees through these UPS-sponsored benefit plans, and the responsibility for providing 
healthcare benefits for active employees was assumed by three separate multiemployer healthcare funds (the “Funds”). The 
responsibility for providing healthcare benefits for the active Non-NMA Group employees was also assumed by the Funds on 
various dates up to January 1, 2015, depending on the ratification date of the applicable collective bargaining agreement. We 
will make contributions to the Funds based on negotiated fixed hourly or monthly contribution rates for the duration of the 
NMA and other applicable collective bargaining agreements.  

Additionally, the Funds assumed the obligation to provide postretirement healthcare benefits to the employees in the 
NMA Group who retire on or after January 1, 2014. The postretirement healthcare benefit obligation for the employees in the 
Non-NMA Group was assumed by the Funds for employees retiring on or after January 1, 2014 or January 1, 2015, depending 
on the applicable collective bargaining agreement. In exchange for the assumption of the obligation to provide postretirement 
healthcare benefits to the NMA Group and Non-NMA Group, we transferred cash totaling $2.271 billion to the Funds in the 
second quarter of 2014. UPS-sponsored health and welfare benefit plans retained responsibility for providing postretirement 
healthcare coverage for employees in the NMA Group who retired from UPS prior to January 1, 2014, and for employees in the 
Non-NMA Group who retire from UPS prior to the January 1, 2014 or January 1, 2015 effective date in the applicable 
collective bargaining agreement.  

Accounting Impact of Health and Welfare Plan Changes

Income Statement Impact:

We recorded a pre-tax charge of $1.066 billion ($665 million after-tax) in the second quarter of 2014 for the health and 

welfare plan changes described above. The components of this charge, which was included in "compensation and benefits" 
expense in the statement of consolidated income, are as follows:

•  Partial Plan Curtailment:  We recorded a $112 million pre-tax curtailment loss due to the elimination of future service 

benefit accruals. This curtailment loss represents the accelerated recognition of unamortized prior service costs.

•  Remeasurement of Postretirement Obligation:  We recorded a $746 million pre-tax loss due to the remeasurement of 

the postretirement benefit obligations of the affected UPS-sponsored health and welfare benefit plans.  

•  Settlement:  We recorded a $208 million pre-tax settlement loss, which represents the recognition of unamortized 

actuarial losses associated with the postretirement obligation for the NMA Group.  

We recorded an additional pre-tax charge of $36 million ($22 million after-tax) in the fourth quarter of 2014 upon 

ratification of the collective bargaining agreements covering the Non-NMA Group, related to the remeasurement and settlement 
of the postretirement benefit obligation associated with those employees.

Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Impact:

During 2014, as part of the health and welfare plan changes described previously, we transferred cash totaling $2.271 

billion to the Funds, which was accounted for as a settlement of our postretirement benefit obligations. We received 
approximately $854 million of cash tax benefits (through reduced U.S. Federal and state quarterly income tax payments) in 
2014.

For NMA Group employees who retired prior to January 1, 2014 and remained with the UPS-sponsored health and 
welfare plans, the changes to the contributions, benefits and cost sharing provisions in these plans resulted in an increase in the 
postretirement benefit obligation, and a corresponding decrease in pre-tax accumulated other comprehensive income, of $13 
million upon ratification.

54

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Anticipated Benefits of Health and Welfare Plan Changes

We believe we have obtained several benefits as a result of these health and welfare plan changes, including:

•  Liability Transfer:  We have removed a significant liability from our balance sheet, which helps to reduce 

uncertainty around potential changes to healthcare laws and regulations, control the volatility of healthcare 
inflation, and removes the risk associated with providing future retiree healthcare.

•  Negotiated Healthcare Costs:  Using the model of a defined contribution plan allows us to negotiate our 

contributions towards healthcare costs going forward, and provides more certainty of costs over the contract 
period.

Minimize Impact of Healthcare Law Changes:  Multiemployer plans have several advantages under the Patient 
Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, including reduced transitional fees and the ability to limit the 
impact of future excise taxes.

Mitigate Demographic Issues:  This helps reduce the potential impact of increased early retirements by 

employees.

55

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

New Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

See note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements for a discussion of recently adopted accounting standards.

Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Effective

See note 1 to the audited consolidated financial statements for a discussion of accounting standards issued, but not yet 

effective.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based on our consolidated financial 

statements, which are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. As 
indicated in note 1 to our consolidated financial statements, the amounts of assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses reported in 
our financial statements are affected by estimates and judgments that are necessary to comply with generally accepted 
accounting principles. We base our estimates on prior experience and other assumptions that we consider reasonable to our 
circumstances. Actual results could differ from our estimates, which would affect the related amounts reported in our 
consolidated financial statements. While estimates and judgments are applied in arriving at many reported amounts, we believe 
that the following matters may involve a higher degree of judgment and complexity.

Contingencies

As discussed in note 9 to our consolidated financial statements, we are involved in various legal proceedings and 
contingencies. The events that may impact our contingent liabilities are often unique and generally are not predictable. At the 
time a contingency is identified, we consider all relevant facts as part of our evaluation. We record a liability for a loss when the 
loss is probable of occurring and reasonably estimable. Events may arise that were not anticipated and the outcome of a 
contingency may result in a loss to us that differs from our previously estimated liability. These factors could result in a material 
difference between estimated and actual operating results. Contingent losses that are probable and estimable, excluding those 
related to income taxes and self-insurance which are discussed further below, were not material to our financial position or 
results of operations as of, and for the year ended, December 31, 2016. In addition, we have certain contingent liabilities that 
have not been recognized as of December 31, 2016, because a loss is not reasonably estimable.

Goodwill and Intangible Impairment

We perform impairment testing of goodwill for each of our reporting units on an annual basis. Our reporting units are 

comprised of the U.S. Domestic Package, Europe, Asia, Americas and ISMEA (Indian Subcontinent, Middle East and Africa) 
reporting units in the International Package reporting segment, and the Forwarding, Logistics, UPS Mail Innovations, UPS 
Freight, The UPS Store, UPS Capital, Marken and Coyote Logistics reporting units in the Supply Chain & Freight reporting 
segment. Our annual goodwill impairment testing date is October 1st for each reporting unit owned at the testing date. In 
assessing goodwill for impairment, we initially evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that the fair 
value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to 
calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then we utilize a two-step process to test goodwill for impairment. First, a 
comparison of the fair value of the applicable reporting unit with the aggregate carrying value, including goodwill, is 
performed. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, we perform the second step of the 
goodwill impairment test to determine the amount of impairment loss. The second step includes comparing the implied fair 
value of the affected reporting unit’s goodwill with the carrying value of that goodwill.

56

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

We primarily determine the fair value of our reporting units using a discounted cash flow model (“DCF model”) and 
supplement this with observable valuation multiples for comparable companies, as appropriate. The completion of the DCF 
model requires that we make a number of significant assumptions to produce an estimate of future cash flows. These 
assumptions include projections of future revenue, costs, capital expenditures and working capital changes. In addition, we 
make assumptions about the estimated cost of capital and other relevant variables, as required, in estimating the fair value of 
our reporting units. The projections that we use in our DCF model are updated annually and will change over time based on the 
historical performance and changing business conditions for each of our reporting units. The determination of whether goodwill 
is impaired involves a significant level of judgment in these assumptions, and changes in our business strategy, government 
regulations, or economic or market conditions could significantly impact these judgments. We routinely monitor market 
conditions and other factors to determine if interim impairment tests are necessary. If impairment indicators are present in 
future periods, the resulting impairment charges could have a material impact on our results of operations.

None of the reporting units incurred any goodwill impairment charges in 2016, 2015 or 2014. Changes in our forecasts 

could cause carrying values of our reporting units to exceed their fair values in future periods, potentially resulting in a 
goodwill impairment charge. A 10% decrease in the estimated fair value for any of our reporting units as of our most recent 
goodwill testing date (October 1, 2016) would not result in a goodwill impairment charge.

A trade name with a carrying value of $200 million and licenses with a carrying value of $4 million as of December 31, 

2016 are considered to be indefinite-lived intangibles, and therefore are not amortized. Impairment tests for indefinite-lived 
intangibles are performed on an annual basis. We determined that the income approach, specifically the relief from royalty 
method, is the most appropriate valuation method for the trade name. The estimated fair value of the trade name is compared to 
the carrying value of the asset. If the carrying value of the trade name exceeds its estimated fair value, an impairment charge is 
recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value. This valuation approach requires 
that we make a number of assumptions to estimate fair value. These assumptions include projections of future revenues, market 
royalty rates, tax rates, discount rates and other relevant variables. The projections we use in the model are updated annually 
and will change over time based on the historical performance and changing business conditions.

All of our remaining recorded intangible assets are deemed to be finite-lived intangibles, and are thus amortized over their 

estimated useful lives. Impairment tests for these intangible assets are only performed when a triggering event occurs that 
indicates that the carrying value of the intangible may not be recoverable based on the undiscounted future cash flows of the 
intangible. If the carrying amount of the intangible is determined not to be recoverable, a write-down to fair value is recorded. 
Fair values are determined based on a DCF model. There were no impairments of any indefinite-lived or finite-lived intangible 
assets in 2016, 2015 or 2014.

Self-Insurance Accruals

We self-insure costs associated with workers’ compensation claims, automotive liability, health and welfare and general 

business liabilities, up to certain limits. Insurance reserves are established for estimates of the loss that we will ultimately incur 
on reported claims, as well as estimates of claims that have been incurred but not yet reported. Recorded balances are based on 
reserve levels, which incorporate historical loss experience and judgments about the present and expected levels of cost per 
claim. Trends in actual experience are a significant factor in the determination of such reserves. We believe our estimated 
reserves for such claims are adequate, but actual experience in claim frequency and/or severity could materially differ from our 
estimates and affect our results of operations.

Workers’ compensation, automobile liability and general liability insurance claims may take several years to completely 

settle. Consequently, actuarial estimates are required to project the ultimate cost that will be incurred to fully resolve the claims. 
A number of factors can affect the actual cost of a claim, including the length of time the claim remains open, trends in health 
care costs and the results of related litigation. Furthermore, claims may emerge in future years for events that occurred in a prior 
year at a rate that differs from previous actuarial projections. Changes in state legislation with respect to workers' compensation 
can affect the adequacy of our self-insurance accruals. All of these factors can result in revisions to prior actuarial projections 
and produce a material difference between estimated and actual operating results.

We sponsor a number of health and welfare insurance plans for our employees. These liabilities and related expenses are 
based on estimates of the number of employees and eligible dependents covered under the plans, anticipated medical usage by 
participants and overall trends in medical costs and inflation. Actual results may differ from these estimates and, therefore, 
produce a material difference between estimated and actual operating results.

57

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Pension and Postretirement Medical Benefits

Our pension and other postretirement benefit costs are calculated using various actuarial assumptions and methodologies. 

These assumptions include discount rates, health care cost trend rates, inflation, compensation increase rates, expected returns 
on plan assets, mortality rates and other factors. The assumptions utilized in recording the obligations under our plans represent 
our best estimates, and we believe that they are reasonable, based on information as to historical experience and performance as 
well as other factors that might cause future expectations to differ from past trends.

Differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions may affect our pension and other postretirement obligations 

and future expense. The primary factors contributing to actuarial gains and losses each year are (1) changes in the discount rate 
used to value pension and postretirement benefit obligations as of the measurement date, (2) differences between the expected 
and the actual return on plan assets, (3) changes in demographic assumptions including mortality, (4) participant experience 
different from demographic assumptions and (5) changes in coordinating benefits with plans not sponsored by UPS.

We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and net actuarial gains or losses in excess of a corridor (defined as 

10% of the greater of the fair value of plan assets or the plans' projected benefit obligations) in pension expense annually at 
December 31st each year. The remaining components of pension expense (herein referred to as "ongoing net periodic benefit 
cost"), primarily service and interest costs and the expected return on plan assets, are reported on a quarterly basis. 

The following sensitivity analysis shows the impact of a 25 basis point change in the assumed discount rate, return on 

assets, and healthcare cost trend rate for our pension and postretirement benefit plans, and the resulting increase (decrease) on 
our obligations and expense as of, and for the year ended, December 31, 2016 (in millions).

Pension Plans
Discount Rate:

25 Basis Point
Increase

25 Basis Point
Decrease

Effect on ongoing net periodic benefit cost
Effect on net periodic benefit cost for amounts recognized outside the 10% corridor
Effect on projected benefit obligation

$

(51) $

(1,496)
(1,674)

Return on Assets:

Effect on ongoing net periodic benefit cost(1)
Effect on net periodic benefit cost for amounts recognized outside the 10% corridor(2)

Postretirement Medical Plans
Discount Rate:

Effect on ongoing net periodic benefit cost
Effect on net periodic benefit cost for amounts recognized outside the 10% corridor
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation

Health Care Cost Trend Rate:

Effect on ongoing net periodic benefit cost
Effect on net periodic benefit cost for amounts recognized outside the 10% corridor
Effect on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation

(1) 
(2) 

Amount calculated based on 25 basis point increase / decrease in the expected return on assets. 
Amount calculated based on 25 basis point increase / decrease in the actual return on assets. 

(74)
(73)

3
(11)
(59)

1
11
16

59
1,603
1,782

74
73

(2)
13
70

(1)
(10)
(18)

58

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Pension Backstop

UPS was a contributing employer to the Central State Pensions Fund ("CSPF") until 2007 when we withdrew from the 
plan and fully funded our allocable shares of unfunded vested benefits by paying a $6.1 billion withdrawal liability. Under a 
collective bargaining agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters ("IBT"), UPS agreed to provide coordinating 
benefits in the UPS/IBT Full Time Employee Pension Plan ("UPS/IBT Plan") for UPS participants whose last employer was 
UPS and who had not retired as of January 1, 2008 ("the UPS Transfer Group") in the event that benefits are lawfully reduced 
by the CSPF in the future consistent with the terms of our withdrawal agreement with the CSPF. 

In December 2014, Congress passed the Multiemployer Pension Reform Act ("MPRA") which for the first time ever 
allowed multiemployer pension plans to reduce benefit payments to retirees, subject to specific guidelines in the statute and 
government approval. In September 2015, the CSPF submitted a proposed pension benefit reduction plan to the U.S. 
Department of Treasury under the MPRA. The CSPF plan proposed to reduce retirement benefits to the CSPF participants, 
including the UPS Transfer Group. We vigorously challenged the proposed benefit reduction plan because we believed that it 
did not comply with the law and the CSPF failed to comply with its contractual obligation to obtain our consent to reduce 
benefits to the UPS Transfer Group under the terms of the withdrawal agreement with the CSPF. On May 6, 2016, the U.S. 
Department of Treasury rejected the proposed plan submitted by the CSPF, stating that it failed to satisfy a number of 
requirements set forth in the MPRA.

The CSPF has asserted that it will become insolvent in 2025, which could lead to the reduction of retirement benefits. 

Although there are numerous factors that could affect the CSPF's funding status, if the CSPF were to become insolvent as they 
have projected, UPS may be required to provide coordinating benefits, thereby increasing the current projected benefits 
obligation for the UPS/IBT plan by approximately $4 billion. The CSPF has said that it believes a legislative solution to its 
funding status is necessary, and we expect that the CSPF will continue to explore options to avoid insolvency.

The potential obligation to pay coordinating benefits from the UPS/IBT Plan is subject to a number of significant 

uncertainties, including actions that may be taken by the CSPF, the federal government or others. These actions include whether 
the CSPF will submit a revised pension benefit reduction plan or otherwise seek federal government assistance, the extent to 
which benefits are paid by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, our ability to successfully defend our legal positions as 
well as the effect of discount rates and various other actuarial assumptions. 

We account for this potential obligation under Accounting Standards Codification Topic 715 - Compensation - Retirement 

Benefits ("ASC 715"). Under ASC 715 we are required to provide a best estimate of various actuarial assumptions, including 
the eventual outcome this matter, in measuring our pension benefit obligation at the December 31st measurement date. While 
we currently believe the most likely solution to this matter and the broader systemic problems facing multi-employer pension 
plans is intervention by the federal government, ASC 715 does not permit anticipation of changes in law in making a best 
estimate of pension liabilities. Our best estimate as of the measurement date of December 31, 2016 does not incorporate this 
solution. Rather, our best estimate of the next most likely outcome to resolve the CSPF’s solvency concerns is that the CSPF 
will make another MPRA filing to forestall insolvency without reducing benefits to the UPS Transfer Group. If the CSPF 
attempts to reduce benefits for the UPS Transfer Group under a MPRA filing we would be in a strong legal position to prevent 
that from occurring given that these benefits cannot be reduced without our consent and such a reduction, without first 
exhausting reductions to other groups in the CSPF, would be contrary to the statute. Accordingly, our best estimate as of the 
measurement date of December 31, 2016 is that there is no liability to be recognized for additional coordinating benefits of the 
UPS/IBT Plan. However, the projected benefit obligation could materially increase as these uncertainties are resolved. We will 
continue to assess the impact of these uncertainties on the projected benefit obligation of the UPS/IBT Plan in accordance with 
ASC 715.

59

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Depreciation, Residual Value and Impairment of Fixed Assets

As of December 31, 2016, we had $18.8 billion of net fixed assets, the most significant category of which is aircraft. In 
accounting for fixed assets, we make estimates about the expected useful lives and the expected residual values of the assets, 
and the potential for impairment based on the fair values of the assets and the cash flows generated by these assets.

In estimating the lives and expected residual values of aircraft, we have relied upon actual experience with the same or 

similar aircraft types. Subsequent revisions to these estimates could be caused by changes to our maintenance program, changes 
in the utilization of the aircraft, governmental regulations on aging aircraft and changing market prices of new and used aircraft 
of the same or similar types. We periodically evaluate these estimates and assumptions, and adjust the estimates and 
assumptions as necessary. Adjustments to the expected lives and residual values are accounted for on a prospective basis 
through depreciation expense.

We review long-lived assets for impairment when circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be 
recoverable based on the undiscounted future cash flows of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset is determined not to be 
recoverable, a write-down to fair value is recorded. Fair values are determined based on quoted market values, discounted cash 
flows or external appraisals, as appropriate. We review long-lived assets for impairment at the individual asset or the asset 
group level for which the lowest level of independent cash flows can be identified. The circumstances that would indicate 
potential impairment may include, but are not limited to, a significant change in the extent to which an asset is utilized and 
operating or cash flow losses associated with the use of the asset. In estimating cash flows, we project future volume levels for 
our different air express products in all geographic regions in which we do business. Adverse changes in these volume 
forecasts, or a shortfall of our actual volume compared with our projections, could result in our current aircraft capacity 
exceeding current or projected demand. This situation could lead to an excess of a particular aircraft type, resulting in an 
aircraft impairment charge or a reduction of the expected life of an aircraft type (thus resulting in increased depreciation 
expense).

There were no impairment charges on our property, plant and equipment during 2016, 2015 and 2014. 

Fair Value Measurements

In the normal course of business, we hold and issue financial instruments that contain elements of market risk, including 

derivatives, marketable securities, finance receivables, pension assets, other investments and debt. Certain of these financial 
instruments are required to be recorded at fair value, principally derivatives, marketable securities, pension assets and certain 
other investments. Fair values are based on listed market prices, when such prices are available. To the extent that listed market 
prices are not available, fair value is determined based on other relevant factors, including dealer price quotations. Certain 
financial instruments, including over-the-counter derivative instruments, are valued using pricing models that consider, among 
other factors, contractual and market prices, correlations, time value, credit spreads and yield curve volatility factors. Changes 
in the fixed income, foreign exchange and commodity markets will impact our estimates of fair value in the future, potentially 
affecting our results of operations. A quantitative sensitivity analysis of our exposure to changes in commodity prices, foreign 
currency exchange rates and interest rates is presented in the “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk” 
section of this report.

We allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed and intangible 

assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values 
of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. Such valuations require management to make significant 
estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets. Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets 
include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows from acquired customers, technology and trade names from a market 
participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon assumptions 
believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may differ from 
estimates. During the measurement period, which is one year from the acquisition date, we may record adjustments to the assets 
acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the measurement period, 
any subsequent adjustments are recorded to earnings.

60

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Income Taxes

We make certain estimates and judgments in determining income tax expense for financial statement purposes. These 
estimates and judgments occur in the calculation of income by legal entity and jurisdiction, tax credits, benefits, and deductions, 
and in the calculation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, which arise from differences in the timing of recognition of revenue 
and expense for tax and financial statement purposes, as well as tax, interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions. 
Significant changes to these estimates may result in an increase or decrease to our tax provision in a subsequent period.

We assess the likelihood that we will be able to recover our deferred tax assets. If recovery is not likely, we must increase 
our provision for taxes by recording a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets that we estimate will not ultimately be 
recoverable. We believe that we will ultimately recover a substantial majority of the deferred tax assets recorded on our 
consolidated balance sheets. However, should there be a change in our ability to recover our deferred tax assets, our tax 
provision would increase in the period in which we determined that the recovery was not likely.

The calculation of our tax liabilities involves dealing with uncertainties in the application of complex tax regulations. We 

recognize liabilities for uncertain tax positions based on a two-step process. The first step is to evaluate the tax position for 
recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the position will be 
sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. Once it is determined that the position 
meets the recognition threshold, the second step requires us to estimate and measure the the largest amount of tax benefit that is 
more likely than not to be realized upon ultimate settlement. The difference between the amount of recognizable tax benefit and 
the total amount of tax benefit from positions filed or to be filed with the tax authorities is recorded as a liability for uncertain 
tax benefits. It is inherently difficult and subjective to estimate such amounts, as we have to determine the probability of 
various possible outcomes. We reevaluate uncertain tax positions on a quarterly basis. This evaluation is based on factors 
including, but not limited to, changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, effectively settled issues under audit, and 
new audit activity. Such a change in recognition or measurement could result in the recognition of a tax benefit or an additional 
charge to the tax provision.

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Losses on accounts receivable are recognized when they are incurred, which requires us to make our best estimate of the 

probable losses inherent in our customer receivables at each balance sheet date. These estimates require consideration of 
historical loss experience adjusted for current conditions, trends in customer payment frequency, and judgments about the 
probable effects of relevant observable data, including present economic conditions and the financial health of specific 
customers and market sectors. Our risk management process includes standards and policies for reviewing major account 
exposures and concentrations of risk. Deterioration in macroeconomic variables could result in our ultimate loss exposures on 
our accounts receivable being significantly higher than what we have currently estimated and reserved for in our allowance for 
doubtful accounts. Our total allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $102 and $118 million, 
respectively. Our total provision for doubtful accounts charged to expense during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 
2014 was $116, $121 and $143 million, respectively.

61

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Item 7A. 

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

We are exposed to market risk from changes in certain commodity prices, foreign currency exchange rates and interest 
rates. All of these market risks arise in the normal course of business, as we do not engage in speculative trading activities. In 
order to manage the risk arising from these exposures, we utilize a variety of commodity, foreign exchange and interest rate 
forward contracts, options and swaps. A discussion of our accounting policies for derivative instruments and further disclosures 
are provided in note 15 to the consolidated financial statements.

Commodity Price Risk

We are exposed to changes in the prices of refined fuels, principally jet-A, diesel and unleaded gasoline, as well as 
changes in the price of natural gas. Currently, the fuel surcharges that we apply to our domestic and international package and 
LTL services are the primary means of reducing the risk of adverse fuel price changes. Additionally, we periodically use a 
combination of option, forward and futures contracts to provide partial protection from changing fuel and energy prices. As of 
December 31, 2016 and 2015, however, we had no commodity contracts outstanding.

Foreign Currency Exchange Risk

We have foreign currency risks related to our revenue, operating expenses and financing transactions in currencies other 

than the local currencies in which we operate. We are exposed to currency risk from the potential changes in functional 
currency values of our foreign currency-denominated assets, liabilities and cash flows. Our most significant foreign currency 
exposures relate to the Euro, British Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollar, Chinese Renminbi and Hong Kong Dollar. We use 
forwards as well as a combination of purchased and written options to hedge forecasted cash flow currency exposures. These 
derivative instruments generally cover forecasted foreign currency exposures for periods of 12 to 48 months. We also utilize 
forward contracts to hedge portions of our anticipated cash settlements of intercompany transactions subject to foreign currency 
remeasurement.

Interest Rate Risk

We have issued debt instruments, including debt associated with capital leases, that accrue expense at fixed and floating 

rates of interest. We use a combination of interest rate swaps as part of our program to manage the fixed and floating interest 
rate mix of our total debt portfolio and related overall cost of borrowing. The notional amount, interest payment and maturity 
dates of the swaps match the terms of the associated debt. We also utilize forward starting swaps and similar instruments to lock 
in all or a portion of the borrowing cost of anticipated debt issuances. Our floating rate debt and interest rate swaps subject us to 
risk resulting from changes in short-term (primarily LIBOR) interest rates.

We also are subject to interest rate risk with respect to our pension and postretirement benefit obligations, as changes in 

interest rates will effectively increase or decrease our liabilities associated with these benefit plans, which also results in 
changes to the amount of pension and postretirement benefit expense recognized in future periods.

We have investments in debt securities, as well as cash-equivalent instruments, some of which accrue income at variable 

rates of interest. Additionally, we hold a portfolio of finance receivables that accrue income at fixed and floating rates of 
interest.

Sensitivity Analysis

The following analysis provides quantitative information regarding our exposure to foreign currency exchange risk, 
interest rate risk and equity price risk embedded in our existing financial instruments. We utilize valuation models to evaluate 
the sensitivity of the fair value of financial instruments with exposure to market risk that assume instantaneous, parallel shifts in 
exchange rates, interest rate yield curves and commodity and equity prices. For options and instruments with non-linear returns, 
models appropriate to the instrument are utilized to determine the impact of market shifts.

There are certain limitations inherent in the sensitivity analyses presented, primarily due to the assumption that exchange 

rates change in a parallel fashion and that interest rates change instantaneously. In addition, the analyses are unable to reflect 
the complex market reactions that normally would arise from the market shifts modeled. While this is our best estimate of the 
impact of the specified interest rate scenarios, these estimates should not be viewed as forecasts. We adjust the fixed and 
floating interest rate mix of our interest rate sensitive assets and liabilities in response to changes in market conditions. 

62

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Additionally, changes in the fair value of foreign currency derivatives and commodity derivatives are offset by changes in the 
cash flows of the underlying hedged foreign currency and commodity transactions.

(in millions)
Change in Fair Value:
Currency Derivatives(1)
Change in Annual Interest Expense:
Variable Rate Debt(2)
Interest Rate Derivatives(2)

  Shock-Test Result  
As of December 31,

2016

2015

$

$

$

(437) $

(435)

49

58

$

$

44

66

(1) 
(2) 

The potential change in fair value from a hypothetical 10% weakening of the U.S. Dollar against local currency exchange rates across all maturities.
The potential change in annual interest expense resulting from a hypothetical 100 basis point increase in short-term interest rates, applied to our 
variable rate debt and swap instruments (excluding hedges of anticipated debt issuances).

The sensitivity of our pension and postretirement benefit obligations to changes in interest rates is quantified in “Critical 

Accounting Policies and Estimates”.  The sensitivity in the fair value and interest income of our marketable securities and 
finance receivables due to changes in interest rates was not material as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.

63

 
Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets
Statements of Consolidated Income
Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income
Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 1—Summary of Accounting Policies
Note 2—Cash and Investments
Note 3—Property, Plant and Equipment
Note 4—Company-Sponsored Employee Benefit Plans
Note 5—Multiemployer Employee Benefit Plans
Note 6—Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Note 7—Business Acquisitions
Note 8—Debt and Financing Arrangements
Note 9—Legal Proceedings and Contingencies
Note 10—Shareowners’ Equity
Note 11—Stock-Based Compensation
Note 12—Segment and Geographic Information
Note 13—Income Taxes
Note 14—Earnings Per Share
Note 15—Derivative Instruments and Risk Management
Note 16—Quarterly Information (Unaudited)

65
66
67
67
68
69
69
75
80
80
91
96
98
100
105
107
111
116
119
123
123
130

64

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Board of Directors and Shareowners
United Parcel Service, Inc.
Atlanta, Georgia

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of United Parcel Service, Inc. and subsidiaries (the 

“Company”) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related statements of consolidated income, consolidated 
comprehensive income, and consolidated cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016. These 
financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these 
financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial 
statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates 
made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a 
reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of 

United Parcel Service, Inc. and subsidiaries at December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of their operations and their cash 
flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally 
accepted in the United States of America.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 

States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2016, based on the criteria established in 
Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway 
Commission and our report dated February 20, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over 
financial reporting.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Atlanta, Georgia
February 20, 2017 

65

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In millions)

ASSETS

Current Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents
Marketable securities
Accounts receivable, net
Other current assets

Total Current Assets

Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Intangible Assets, Net
Investments and Restricted Cash
Deferred Income Tax Assets
Other Non-Current Assets
Total Assets

LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNERS’ EQUITY

Current Liabilities:

Current maturities of long-term debt and commercial paper
Accounts payable
Accrued wages and withholdings
Hedge margin liabilities
Self-insurance reserves
Accrued group welfare and retirement plan contributions
Other current liabilities

Total Current Liabilities

Long-Term Debt
Pension and Postretirement Benefit Obligations
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities
Self-Insurance Reserves
Other Non-Current Liabilities
Shareowners’ Equity:

Class A common stock (180 and 194 shares issued in 2016 and 2015)
Class B common stock (689 and 693 shares issued in 2016 and 2015)
Additional paid-in capital
Retained earnings
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
Deferred compensation obligations
Less: Treasury stock (1 share in 2016 and 2015)

Total Equity for Controlling Interests

Noncontrolling Interests
Total Shareowners’ Equity
Total Liabilities and Shareowners’ Equity

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

66

December 31,

2016

2015

$

3,476
1,091
7,695
1,587
13,849
18,800
3,757
1,758
476
591
1,146
$ 40,377

$

2,730
1,996
7,134
1,348
13,208
18,352
3,419
1,549
473
255
1,055
$ 38,311

$

3,681
3,042
2,317
575
670
598
847
11,730
12,394
12,694
112
1,794
1,224

$

3,018
2,587
2,253
717
657
525
939
10,696
11,316
10,638
115
1,831
1,224

2
7
—
4,879
(4,483)
45
(45)
405
24
429
$ 40,377

2
7
—
6,001
(3,540)
51
(51)
2,470
21
2,491
$ 38,311

 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED INCOME
(In millions, except per share amounts)

Revenue
Operating Expenses:

Compensation and benefits
Repairs and maintenance
Depreciation and amortization
Purchased transportation
Fuel
Other occupancy
Other expenses

Total Operating Expenses
Operating Profit
Other Income and (Expense):

Investment income and other
Interest expense

Total Other Income and (Expense)
Income Before Income Taxes
Income Tax Expense
Net Income
Basic Earnings Per Share
Diluted Earnings Per Share

Years Ended December 31,

2016
$ 60,906

2015
$ 58,363

2014
$ 58,232

34,770
1,538
2,224
9,129
2,118
1,037
4,623
55,439
5,467

31,028
1,400
2,084
8,043
2,482
1,022
4,636
50,695
7,668

32,045
1,371
1,923
8,460
3,883
1,044
4,538
53,264
4,968

50
(381)
(331)
5,136
1,705
3,431
3.89
3.87

$
$
$

15
(341)
(326)
7,342
2,498
4,844
5.38
5.35

$
$
$

22
(353)
(331)
4,637
1,605
3,032
3.31
3.28

$
$
$

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(In millions)

Net Income
Change in foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on marketable securities, net of tax
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax
Change in unrecognized pension and postretirement benefit costs, net of tax
Comprehensive Income (Loss)

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

Years Ended December 31,

2016

2015

2014

$

$

3,431
(119)
—
(112)
(712)
2,488

$

$

4,844
(440)
(1)
6
489
4,898

$

$

3,032
(331)
1
280
(3,084)
(102)

67

 
 
 
 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS
(In millions)

Cash Flows From Operating Activities:

Net income

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash from operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization
Pension and postretirement benefit expense
Pension and postretirement benefit contributions
Settlement of postretirement benefit obligation
Self-insurance reserves
Deferred tax expense
Stock compensation expense
Other (gains) losses
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effect of acquisitions:

Accounts receivable
Other current assets
Accounts payable
Accrued wages and withholdings
Other current liabilities
Other operating activities
Net cash from operating activities

Cash Flows From Investing Activities:

Capital expenditures
Proceeds from disposals of property, plant and equipment
Purchases of marketable securities
Sales and maturities of marketable securities
Net decrease in finance receivables
Cash paid for business acquisitions
Other investing activities

Net cash used in investing activities
Cash Flows From Financing Activities:

Net change in short-term debt
Proceeds from long-term borrowings
Repayments of long-term borrowings
Purchases of common stock
Issuances of common stock
Dividends
Other financing activities

Net cash used in financing activities

Effect Of Exchange Rate Changes On Cash And Cash Equivalents
Net Increase (Decrease) In Cash And Cash Equivalents
Cash And Cash Equivalents:

Beginning of period
End of period

Cash Paid During The Period For:
Interest (net of amount capitalized)
Income taxes

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

68

Years Ended December 31,

2016

2015

2014

$

3,431

$

4,844

$

3,032

2,224
3,725
(2,668)
—
(21)
123
591
(198)

(704)
(14)
461
109
(561)
(25)
6,473

(2,965)
88
(4,816)
5,724
9
(547)
(59)
(2,566)

(88)
5,927
(3,805)
(2,678)
245
(2,643)
(98)
(3,140)
(21)
746

2,084
1,189
(1,229)
—
(80)
540
574
(185)

(452)
414
(147)
(63)
(6)
(53)
7,430

(2,379)
26
(7,415)
6,388
5
(1,904)
(30)
(5,309)

2,529
3,783
(2,724)
(2,702)
249
(2,525)
(175)
(1,565)
(117)
439

1,923
3,040
(1,258)
(2,271)
(201)
385
536
218

(523)
112
276
106
317
34
5,726

(2,328)
53
(3,525)
3,106
44
(88)
(63)
(2,801)

—
1,525
(1,694)
(2,695)
274
(2,366)
(205)
(5,161)
(138)
(2,374)

2,730
3,476

373
2,064

2,291
2,730

345
1,913

4,665
2,291

366
1,524

$

$
$

$

$
$

$

$
$

 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Basis of Financial Statements and Business Activities

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles 
generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”), and include the accounts of United Parcel Service, Inc., and all of its 
consolidated subsidiaries (collectively “UPS” or the “Company”). All intercompany balances and transactions have been 
eliminated.

UPS concentrates its operations in the field of transportation services, primarily domestic and international letter and 
package delivery. Through our Supply Chain & Freight subsidiaries, we are also a global provider of specialized transportation, 
logistics and financial services.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of our consolidated financial statements requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the 

reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the reported amounts of revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of contingencies. 
Estimates have been prepared on the basis of the most current and best information, and actual results could differ materially 
from those estimates.

Revenue Recognition

U.S. Domestic and International Package Operations—Revenue is recognized upon delivery of a letter or package.

Forwarding and Logistics—Freight forwarding revenue and the expense related to the transportation of freight are 

recognized at the time the services are completed. Truckload freight brokerage revenue and related transportation costs are 
recognized upon delivery of the shipment by a third-party carrier. Material management and distribution revenue is recognized 
upon performance of the service provided. Customs brokerage revenue is recognized upon completing documents necessary for 
customs entry purposes.

UPS Freight—Revenue is recognized upon delivery of a less-than-truckload (“LTL”) or truckload (“TL”) shipment.

In our transportation businesses, we utilize independent contractors and third-party carriers in the performance of some 
transportation services. In situations where we act as principal party to the transaction, we recognize revenue on a gross basis; 
in circumstances where we act as an agent, we recognize revenue net of the cost of the purchased transportation.

Financial Services—Income on loans and direct finance leases is recognized on the effective interest method. Accrual of 

interest income is suspended at the earlier of the time at which collection of an account becomes doubtful or the account 
becomes 90 days delinquent. Income on operating leases is recognized on the straight-line method over the terms of the 
underlying leases.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of highly liquid investments that are readily convertible into cash. We consider 
securities with maturities of three months or less, when purchased, to be cash equivalents. The carrying amount of these 
securities approximates fair value because of the short-term maturity of these instruments.

Investments

Marketable securities are either classified as trading or available-for-sale securities and are carried at fair value.  

Unrealized gains and losses on trading securities are reported as investment income and other on the statements of consolidated 
income.  Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are reported as accumulated other comprehensive income 
(“AOCI”), a separate component of shareowners’ equity. The amortized cost of debt securities is adjusted for amortization of 
premiums and accretion of discounts to maturity. Such amortization and accretion is included in investment income and other, 
along with interest and dividends. The cost of securities sold is based on the specific identification method; realized gains and 
losses resulting from such sales are included in investment income and other.

69

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We periodically review our available-for-sale investments for indications of other-than-temporary impairment considering 
many factors, including the extent and duration to which a security’s fair value has been less than its cost, overall economic and 
market conditions and the financial condition and specific prospects for the issuer. Impairment of available-for-sale securities 
results in a charge to income when a market decline below cost is other-than-temporary.

Accounts Receivable

Losses on accounts receivable are recognized when they are incurred, which requires us to make our best estimate of the 

probable losses inherent in our customer receivables at each balance sheet date. These estimates require consideration of 
historical loss experience, adjusted for current conditions, trends in customer payment frequency, and judgments about the 
probable effects of relevant observable data, including present economic conditions and the financial health of specific 
customers and market sectors. Our risk management process includes standards and policies for reviewing major account 
exposures and concentrations of risk.

Our total allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $102 and $118 million, respectively. 
Our total provision for doubtful accounts charged to expense during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was 
$116, $121 and $143 million, respectively.

Inventories

Fuel and other materials and supplies inventories are recognized as inventory when purchased, and then charged to 
expense when used in our operations. Jet fuel, diesel and unleaded gasoline inventories are valued at the lower of average cost 
or market. Total inventories were $342 and $308 million as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, and are included in 
“other current assets” on the consolidated balance sheets.

Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment are carried at cost. Depreciation and amortization are provided by the straight-line method 
over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which are as follows: Vehicles—3 to 15 years; Aircraft—12 to 30 years; Buildings
—20 to 40 years; Leasehold Improvements—lesser of asset useful life or lease term; Plant Equipment—3 to 20 years; 
Technology Equipment—3 to 5 years. The costs of major airframe and engine overhauls, as well as routine maintenance and 
repairs, are charged to expense as incurred.

Interest incurred during the construction period of certain property, plant and equipment is capitalized until the underlying 
assets are placed in service, at which time amortization of the capitalized interest begins, straight-line, over the estimated useful 
lives of the related assets. Capitalized interest was $14, $13 and $11 million for 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively.

We review long-lived assets for impairment when circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset may not be 
recoverable based on the undiscounted future cash flows of the asset. If the carrying amount of the asset is determined not to be 
recoverable, a write-down to fair value is recorded. Fair values are determined based on quoted market values, discounted cash 
flows, or external appraisals, as appropriate. We review long-lived assets for impairment at the individual asset or the asset 
group level for which the lowest level of independent cash flows can be identified.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

Costs of purchased businesses in excess of net identifiable assets acquired (goodwill), and indefinite-lived intangible 

assets are tested for impairment at least annually, unless changes in circumstances indicate an impairment may have occurred 
sooner. We are required to test goodwill on a “reporting unit” basis. A reporting unit is the operating segment unless, for 
businesses within that operating segment, discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by management, in 
which case such a component business is the reporting unit.

In assessing goodwill for impairment, we initially evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not that 

the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. We consider several factors, including macroeconomic 
conditions, industry and market conditions, overall financial performance of the reporting unit, changes in management, 
strategy or customers, and relevant reporting unit-specific events such as a change in the carrying amount of net assets, a more 
likely than not expectation of selling or disposing all, or a portion, of a reporting unit, and the testing for recoverability of a 
significant asset group within a reporting unit. If this qualitative assessment results in a conclusion that it is more likely than not 
that the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds the carrying value, then no further testing is performed for that reporting unit.

70

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

If the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then we 

utilize a two-step process to test goodwill for impairment. First, a comparison of the fair value of the applicable reporting unit 
with the aggregate carrying value, including goodwill, is performed. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its 
calculated fair value, then the second step is performed, and an impairment charge is recognized for the amount, if any, by 
which the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value. We primarily determine the fair value of our reporting 
units using a discounted cash flow model and supplement this with observable valuation multiples for comparable companies, 
as appropriate.

A trade name with a carrying value of $200 million and licenses with a carrying value of $4 million as of December 31, 

2016 are considered to be indefinite-lived intangibles, and therefore are not amortized. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are 
reviewed for impairment at least annually. We determined that the income approach, specifically the relief from royalty method, 
is the most appropriate valuation method to estimate the fair value of the Coyote trade name. The estimated fair value of the 
trade name is compared to the carrying value of the asset. If the carrying value of the trade name exceeds its estimated fair 
value, an impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value.

Finite-lived intangible assets, including trademarks, licenses, patents, customer lists, non-compete agreements and 

franchise rights are amortized on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets, which range from 2 to 22 
years. Capitalized software is amortized over 5 years.

Self-Insurance Accruals

We self-insure costs associated with workers’ compensation claims, automotive liability, health and welfare, and general 
business liabilities, up to certain limits. Insurance reserves are established for estimates of the loss that we will ultimately incur 
on reported claims, as well as estimates of claims that have been incurred but not yet reported. Recorded balances are based on 
reserve levels, which incorporate historical loss experience and judgments about the present and expected levels of cost per 
claim.

Pension and Postretirement Benefits

We incur certain employment-related expenses associated with pension and postretirement medical benefits. These 

pension and postretirement medical benefit costs for company-sponsored benefit plans are calculated using various actuarial 
assumptions and methodologies, including discount rates, expected returns on plan assets, healthcare cost trend rates, inflation, 
compensation increase rates, mortality rates and coordination of benefits with plans not sponsored by UPS. Actuarial 
assumptions are reviewed on an annual basis, unless circumstances require an interim remeasurement date for any of our plans.

We recognize changes in the fair value of plan assets and net actuarial gains or losses in excess of a corridor (defined as 

10% of the greater of the fair value of plan assets or the plans' projected benefit obligations) in pension expense annually at 
December 31st each year. The remaining components of pension expense, primarily service and interest costs and the expected 
return on plan assets, are recorded on a quarterly basis. 

Effective July 1, 2016, the UPS Retirement Plan was closed to new non-union participants.  For eligible employees hired 
after July 1, 2016, UPS contributes annually to a defined contribution plan. We recognize expense for the required contribution 
quarterly, and we recognize a liability for any contributions due and unpaid (included in “other current liabilities”).

We participate in a number of trustee-managed multiemployer pension and health and welfare plans for employees 
covered under collective bargaining agreements. Our contributions to these plans are determined in accordance with the 
respective collective bargaining agreements. We recognize expense for the contractually required contribution for each period, 
and we recognize a liability for any contributions due and unpaid (included in “other current liabilities”).

71

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for on an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and 

liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our consolidated financial statements 
or tax returns. In estimating future tax consequences, we generally consider all expected future events other than proposed 
changes in the tax law or rates. Valuation allowances are provided if it is more likely than not that a deferred tax asset will not 
be realized.

We recognize liabilities for uncertain tax positions based on a two-step process. The first step is to evaluate the tax 
position for recognition by determining if the weight of available evidence indicates that it is more likely than not that the 
position will be sustained on audit, including resolution of related appeals or litigation processes, if any. Once it is determined 
that the position meets the recognition threshold, the second step requires us to estimate and measure the the largest amount of 
tax benefit that is more likely than not to be realized upon ultimate settlement. The difference between the amount of 
recognizable tax benefit and the total amount of tax benefit from positions filed or to be filed with the tax authorities is recorded 
as a liability for uncertain tax benefits. It is inherently difficult and subjective to estimate such amounts, as we have to 
determine the probability of various possible outcomes. We reevaluate uncertain tax positions on a quarterly basis. This 
evaluation is based on factors including, but not limited to, changes in facts or circumstances, changes in tax law, effectively 
settled issues under audit and new audit activity. Such a change in recognition or measurement could result in the recognition of 
a tax benefit or an additional charge to the tax provision.

Foreign Currency Translation and Remeasurement

We translate the results of operations of our foreign subsidiaries using average exchange rates during each period, 
whereas balance sheet accounts are translated using exchange rates at the end of each period. Balance sheet currency translation 
adjustments are recorded in AOCI. Pre-tax foreign currency transaction gains from remeasurement, net of hedging, included in 
other operating expenses, investment income and interest expense were $5, $7 and $14 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, 
respectively.

Stock-Based Compensation

All share-based awards to employees are measured based on their fair values and expensed over the period during which 

an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the award (the vesting period). We issue employee share-based 
awards under the UPS Incentive Compensation Plan that are subject to specific vesting conditions; including service conditions, 
where the awards cliff vest or vest ratably over a three or five year period (the "nominal vesting period”) or at the date the 
employee retires (as defined by the plan), if earlier. Compensation cost is generally recognized immediately for awards granted 
to retirement-eligible employees, or over the period from the grant date to the date retirement eligibility is achieved, if that is 
expected to occur during the nominal vesting period.

Fair Value Measurements

Our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis have been categorized based upon a fair 

value hierarchy. Level 1 inputs utilize quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 inputs are based 
on other observable market data, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities, and inputs other than quoted prices that 
are observable, such as interest rates and yield curves. Level 3 inputs are developed from unobservable data reflecting our own 
assumptions, and include situations where there is little or no market activity for the asset or liability.

Certain non-financial assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, including property, plant, 
and equipment, goodwill and intangible assets. These assets are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis; however, they 
are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence of an impairment. A general 
description of the valuation methodologies used for assets and liabilities measured at fair value, including the general 
classification of such assets and liabilities pursuant to the valuation hierarchy, is included in each footnote with fair value 
measurements present.

72

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We allocate the fair value of purchase consideration to the tangible assets acquired, liabilities assumed and intangible 

assets acquired based on their estimated fair values. The excess of the fair value of purchase consideration over the fair values 
of these identifiable assets and liabilities is recorded as goodwill. Such valuations require management to make significant 
estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to intangible assets. Significant estimates in valuing certain intangible assets 
include, but are not limited to, future expected cash flows from acquired customers, acquired technology, and trade names from 
a market participant perspective, useful lives and discount rates. Management’s estimates of fair value are based upon 
assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and unpredictable and, as a result, actual results may 
differ from estimates. During the measurement period, which is one year from the acquisition date, we may record adjustments 
to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, with the corresponding offset to goodwill. Upon the conclusion of the 
measurement period, any subsequent adjustments are recorded to earnings.

Derivative Instruments

All financial derivative instruments are recorded on our consolidated balance sheets at fair value. Derivatives not 
designated as hedges must be adjusted to fair value through income. If a derivative is designated as a hedge, changes in its fair 
value that are considered to be effective, as defined, either (depending on the nature of the hedge) offset the change in fair value 
of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments through income, or are recorded in AOCI until the hedged item is recorded 
in income. Any portion of a change in a hedge’s fair value that is considered to be ineffective, or is excluded from the 
measurement of effectiveness, is recorded immediately in income.

Adoption of New Accounting Standards

In November 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued an accounting standards update that 

simplifies the presentation of deferred tax assets and liabilities. The update removes the requirement to separate deferred tax 
liabilities and assets into current and non-current amounts in a classified statement of financial position. The update permits the 
entity to present deferred tax liabilities and assets as non-current in a classified statement of financial position. We adopted this 
standard on a retrospective basis in the fourth quarter of 2015. This accounting standards update did not have a material impact 
on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. 

In September 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that simplifies the accounting for measurement-
period adjustments related to business combinations. This update removes the requirement to retrospectively apply adjustments 
made to estimated amounts recognized in a business combination. This update permits the purchaser to adjust the estimated 
amounts in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. This new guidance would have become 
effective for us in the first quarter of 2016; however, we elected to early adopt this standard in the third quarter of 2015. This 
accounting standards update did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. 

In April 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update to simplify the presentation of debt issuance costs. This 

update amends existing guidance to require the presentation of debt issuance costs in the consolidated balance sheets as a direct 
deduction from the carrying amount of the associated debt liability instead of a deferred charge. In August 2015, the FASB 
issued updated guidance pertaining to the presentation of debt issuance costs related to line-of-credit arrangements. This update 
allows an entity to defer and present debt issuance costs as an asset, subsequently amortizing the deferred debt issuance costs 
over the term of the line-of-credit arrangement, regardless of whether there are any outstanding borrowings on the line-of-credit 
arrangement. We elected to early adopt this standard in the fourth quarter of 2015 on a retrospective basis. This accounting 
standards update did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations. 

In May 2015, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that changes the disclosure requirement for reporting 
investments at fair value. This update removes the requirement to categorize investments for which fair value is measured using 
the net asset value (“NAV”) per share practical expedient within the fair value hierarchy. These disclosures are limited to 
investments for which the entity has elected to measure fair value using the practical expedient. Substantially all of our Level 3 
pension and postretirement benefit plan assets were measured using NAV as a practical expedient. This guidance became 
effective for us in the first quarter of 2016 and did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of 
operations. 

In June 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standards update for companies that grant their employees share-based 
payments in which the terms of the award provide that a performance target that affects vesting could be achieved after the 
requisite service period. This guidance became effective for us in the first quarter of 2015 and did not have a material impact on 
our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. 

73

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Accounting Standards Issued But Not Yet Effective

In November 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that is intended to reduce diversity in practice by 
adding or clarifying guidance on classification and presentation of changes in restricted cash on the statement of cash flows. 
The guidance in this update should be applied retrospectively and becomes effective for us in the first quarter of 2018, but early 
adoption is permitted. As a result of this update, restricted cash will be included within cash and cash equivalents on our 
statements of consolidated cash flows. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, we had $445 and $442 million in self-insurance 
investments and restricted cash, respectively. 

In August 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that addresses the classification and presentation of 

specific cash flow issues that currently result in diverse practices. The guidance also clarifies how the predominance principle 
should be applied when cash receipts and cash payments have aspects of more than one class of cash flows. The guidance will 
generally be applied retrospectively and becomes effective for us in the first quarter of 2018, but early adoption is permitted. 
We are currently evaluating the impact of this standard on our statements of consolidated cash flows, but do not expect this 
standard to have a material impact. 

In March 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that simplifies the income tax accounting and cash flow 

presentation related to share-based compensation by requiring the recognition of all excess tax benefits and deficiencies directly 
on the income statement and classification as cash flows from operating activities on the statement of cash flows. This new 
guidance becomes effective for us in the first quarter of 2017. We have evaluated adoption of this update and determined that 
the impact to income tax expense in the statements of consolidated income, for the first quarter of 2017, will be a benefit of 
approximately $60 million, which will result in a reclassification of approximately $60 million from net cash from financing 
activities to net cash from operating activities in the statements of consolidated cash flows.   

In February 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that requires lessees to recognize a right-of-use asset 

and lease liability on the balance sheet for all leases with terms beyond twelve months. Although the distinction between 
operating and finance leases will continue to exist under the new standard, the recognition and measurement of expenses and 
cash flows will not change significantly from the current treatment. This new guidance requires modified retrospective 
application and becomes effective for us in the first quarter of 2019, but early adoption is permitted. We are currently evaluating 
this update to determine the full impact of its adoption on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, cash flows 
and related disclosures, as well as the impact of adoption on policies, practices and systems. As of December 31, 2016, we have 
$1.470 billion of future minimum operating lease commitments that are not currently recognized on our consolidated balance 
sheet (see note 8). Therefore, we expect material changes to our consolidated balance sheets.

In January 2016, the FASB issued an accounting standards update which addresses certain aspects of the recognition, 

measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendment will be effective for us beginning the first 
quarter of 2018. At this time, we do not expect this accounting standards update to have a material impact on our consolidated 
financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

In May 2014, the FASB issued an accounting standards update that changes the revenue recognition for companies that 

enter into contracts with customers to transfer goods or services. The standard is a comprehensive new revenue recognition 
model that requires revenue to be recognized in a manner depicting the transfer of goods or services to a customer at an amount 
that reflects the consideration expected to be received in exchange for those goods or services. The FASB has also issued a 
number of updates to this standard. We are planning to adopt the standard on January 1, 2018. Companies may use either a full 
retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt this standard. We are currently evaluating this standard and the 
related updates, including which transition approach to use as well as the impact of adoption on policies, practices and systems. 

At this stage in the evaluation, we expect that revenue recognition will be accelerated for the transportation businesses as 
the standard requires revenue to be recognized as control is transferred to the customer over time rather than upon delivery. We 
are currently quantifying the impact of this change to the statements of consolidated income. 

The standard also requires us to evaluate whether our businesses promise to transfer services to the customer itself (as a 

principal) or to arrange for services to be provided by another party (as an agent). To make that determination, the standard uses 
a control model rather than the risks-and-rewards model in current U.S. GAAP.  Based on our evaluation of the control model, 
we determined that certain Supply Chain & Freight businesses act as the principal rather than the agent within their revenue 
arrangements. This change will require the affected businesses to report transportation revenue gross of associated purchase 
transportation costs rather than net of such amounts within the statements of consolidated income. We are currently quantifying 
the amount of revenue impacted by this change. Additionally, contract reviews are ongoing, and more businesses could be 
impacted by the adoption of the standard.

74

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 Changes in Presentation 

Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. These reclassifications had 

no impact on our financial position or results of operations.

NOTE 2. CASH AND INVESTMENTS

The following is a summary of marketable securities classified as trading and available-for-sale at December 31, 2016 

and 2015 (in millions):

2016
Current trading marketable securities:

Corporate debt securities
Carbon credit investments(1)
Total trading marketable securities

Current available-for-sale marketable securities:
U.S. government and agency debt securities
Mortgage and asset-backed debt securities
Corporate debt securities
Equity securities
Non-U.S. government debt securities
Total available-for-sale marketable securities

Cost

Unrealized
Gains

Unrealized
Losses

Estimated
Fair Value

$

$

$

$

427
80
507

314
90
167
2
3
576

— $
10
10

— $
1
—
—
—
1

— $
—
—

(2) $
—
(1)
—
—
(3)

427
90
517

312
91
166
2
3
574

Total current marketable securities

$

1,083

$

11

$

(3) $

1,091

2015
Current trading marketable securities:

Corporate debt securities
Non-U.S. government debt securities(1)
Carbon credit investments(1)
Total trading marketable securities

Current available-for-sale marketable securities:
U.S. government and agency debt securities
Mortgage and asset-backed debt securities
Corporate debt securities
U.S. state and local municipal debt securities
Equity securities
Non-U.S. government debt securities
Total available-for-sale marketable securities

Cost

Unrealized
Gains

Unrealized
Losses

Estimated
Fair Value

$

$

$

$

715
363
347
1,425

341
74
147
2
2
3
569

— $
—
9
9

— $
1
—
—
—
—
1

— $
—
(5)
(5)

(1) $
(1)
(1)
—
—
—
(3)

715
363
351
1,429

340
74
146
2
2
3
567

Total current marketable securities

$

1,994

$

10

$

(8) $

1,996

(1) These investments are hedged with forward contracts that are not designated in hedging relationships. See Note 15 for offsetting 

statement of consolidated income impact. 

Total current marketable securities that were pledged as collateral for our self-insurance requirements had an estimated 

fair value of $572 and $564 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.  

75

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The gross realized gains on sales of available-for-sale securities totaled $1, $1 and $1 million in 2016, 2015, and 2014, 

respectively. The gross realized losses on sales of available-for-sale securities totaled $1, $1 and $0 million in 2016, 2015, and 
2014, respectively. 

There were no material impairment losses recognized on marketable securities during 2016, 2015 or 2014.

Investment Other-Than-Temporary Impairments

We have concluded that no material other-than-temporary impairment losses existed as of December 31, 2016. In making 
this determination, we considered the financial condition and prospects of the issuer, the magnitude of the losses compared with 
the investments’ cost, the probability that we will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the 
security, the credit rating of the security and our ability and intent to hold these investments until the anticipated recovery in 
market value occurs.

Unrealized Losses

The following table presents the age of gross unrealized losses and fair value by investment category for all securities in a 

loss position as of December 31, 2016 (in millions): 

Less Than 12 Months

12 Months or More

Total

U.S. government and agency debt securities
Mortgage and asset-backed debt securities

Corporate debt securities

Equity securities

Non-U.S. government debt securities

Total marketable securities

Unrealized
Losses

Fair Value

Unrealized
Losses

$

Fair Value
206
$
—

68

—

—

(2) $
—
(1)
—

—
(3) $

— $
—

—

—

—

Fair Value
206
—

— $
—

—

—

—

68

—

—

Unrealized
Losses

$

(2)
—
(1)
—

—
(3)

$

274

$

— $

— $

274

$

The unrealized losses for the U.S. government and agency debt securities are primarily due to changes in market interest 

rates. We have both the intent and ability to hold the securities contained in the previous table for a time necessary to recover 
the cost basis. 

Maturity Information

The amortized cost and estimated fair value of marketable securities at December 31, 2016, by contractual maturity, are 
shown below (in millions). Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because the issuers of the securities may 
have the right to prepay obligations without prepayment penalties.

Due in one year or less
Due after one year through three years
Due after three years through five years
Due after five years

Equity and carbon credit investment securities

Cost

Estimated
Fair Value

$

$

463
450
16
72
1,001
82
1,083

$

$

462
449
16
72
999
92
1,091

76

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Non-Current Investments and Restricted Cash

Investments and Restricted Cash is primarily associated with our self-insurance requirements. We entered into an escrow 
agreement with an insurance carrier to guarantee our self-insurance obligations. This agreement requires us to provide collateral 
to the insurance carrier, which is invested in money market funds and corporate and municipal bonds. Collateral provided is 
reflected in "other investing activities" in the statements of consolidated cash flows. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, we had 
$445 and $442 million in self-insurance investments and restricted cash, respectively.

We held an $18 and $19 million investment in a variable life insurance policy to fund benefits for the UPS Excess 
Coordinating Benefit Plan at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The quarterly change in investment fair value is 
recognized in "investment income and other" on the statements of consolidated income. Additionally, we held escrowed cash 
related to the acquisition and disposition of certain assets, primarily real estate, of $13 and $12 million at December 31, 2016 
and 2015, respectively. 

The amounts described above are classified as “investments and restricted cash” in the consolidated balance sheets. 

Fair Value Measurements

Marketable securities utilizing Level 1 inputs include active exchange-traded equity securities and equity index funds, 
and most U.S. Government debt securities, as these securities all have quoted prices in active markets. Marketable securities 
utilizing Level 2 inputs include asset-backed securities, corporate bonds and municipal bonds. These securities are valued using 
market corroborated pricing, matrix pricing or other models that utilize observable inputs such as yield curves.

We maintain holdings in certain investment partnerships that are measured at fair value utilizing Level 3 inputs (classified 

as “other non-current investments” in the tables below, and as “other non-current assets” in the consolidated balance sheets). 
These partnership holdings do not have quoted prices, nor can they be valued using inputs based on observable market data. 
These investments are valued internally using a discounted cash flow model with two significant inputs:  (1) the after-tax cash 
flow projections for each partnership, and (2) a risk-adjusted discount rate consistent with the duration of the expected cash 
flows for each partnership. The weighted-average discount rates used to value these investments were 8.06% and 8.22% as of 
December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. These inputs and the resulting fair values are updated on a quarterly basis.

77

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table presents information about our investments measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of 
December 31, 2016 and 2015, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized to determine such fair 
value (in millions):

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets
(Level 1)

Significant
Other 
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

2016
Marketable securities:

U.S. government and agency debt securities
Mortgage and asset-backed debt securities
Corporate debt securities
Equity securities
Non-U.S. government debt securities
Carbon credit investments

Total marketable securities

Other non-current investments

Total

$

$

312
—
—
—
—
90
402
18
420

$

$

— $
91
593
2
3
—
689
—
689

$

— $
—
—
—
—
—
—
13
13

$

312
91
593
2
3
90
1,091
31
1,122

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets 
for Identical
Assets 
(Level 1)

Significant Other
Observable 
Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable 
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

2015
Marketable securities:

U.S. government and agency debt securities
Mortgage and asset-backed debt securities
Corporate debt securities
U.S. state and local municipal debt securities

Equity securities

Non-U.S. government debt securities

Carbon credit investments

Total marketable securities

Other non-current investments

Total

$

$

340
—
—
—

—

—
351
691
19
710

$

$

— $
74
861
2

2

366
—
1,305
—
1,305

$

— $
—
—
—

—

—
—
—
32
32

$

340
74
861
2

2

366
351
1,996
51
2,047

78

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table presents the changes in the above Level 3 instruments measured on a recurring basis for the years 

ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions).

Balance on January 1, 2015
Transfers into (out of) Level 3
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses):

Included in earnings (in investment income)
Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (pre-tax)

Purchases
Settlements
Balance on December 31, 2015
Transfers into (out of) Level 3
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses):

Included in earnings (in investment income)
Included in accumulated other comprehensive income (pre-tax)

Purchases
Settlements
Balance on December 31, 2016

Marketable
Securities

Other
Investments

Total

— $
—

—
—
—
—
— $
—

—
—
—
—
— $

$

64
—

(32)
—
—
—
32
—

(19)
—
—
—
13

$

$

64
—

(32)
—
—
—
32
—

(19)
—
—
—
13

$

$

$

79

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 3. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Property, plant and equipment, including both owned assets as well as assets subject to capital leases, consists of the 

following as of December 31 (in millions):

Vehicles
Aircraft
Land
Buildings
Building and leasehold improvements
Plant equipment
Technology equipment
Equipment under operating leases
Construction-in-progress

Less: Accumulated depreciation and amortization

$

2016

2015

$

8,638
15,653
1,397
3,439
3,612
8,430
1,741
29
735
43,674

8,111
15,815
1,263
3,280
3,450
8,026
1,670
30
273
41,918

(24,874)
18,800

$

(23,566)
18,352

$

We continually monitor our aircraft fleet utilization in light of current and projected volume levels, aircraft fuel prices and 

other factors. Additionally, we monitor our other property, plant and equipment categories for any indicators that the carrying 
value of the assets may not be recoverable. No impairment charges on property, plant and equipment were recorded in 2016, 
2015 or 2014. 

NOTE 4. COMPANY-SPONSORED EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

We sponsor various retirement and pension plans, including defined benefit and defined contribution plans which cover 

our employees worldwide.

U.S. Pension Benefits

In the U.S. we maintain the following single-employer defined benefit pension plans: The UPS Retirement Plan, the UPS 

Pension Plan, the UPS IBT Pension Plan and the UPS Excess Coordinating Benefit Plan, a non-qualified plan.

The UPS Retirement Plan is noncontributory and includes substantially all eligible employees of participating domestic 

subsidiaries who are not members of a collective bargaining unit, as well as certain employees covered by a collective 
bargaining agreement. This plan generally provides for retirement benefits based on average compensation levels earned by 
employees prior to retirement. Benefits payable under this plan are subject to maximum compensation limits and the annual 
benefit limits for a tax-qualified defined benefit plan as prescribed by the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”).

The UPS Retirement Plan was closed to new non-union participants effective July 1, 2016. The Company amended the 
UPS 401(k) Savings Plan so that employees who previously would have been eligible for participation in the UPS Retirement 
Plan will, in addition to current benefits under the UPS 401(k) Savings Plan, begin receiving a UPS Retirement Contribution. 
For employees eligible to receive the Retirement Contribution, UPS will contribute 3% to 8% of eligible pay to the UPS 401(k) 
Savings Plan based on years of vesting service and business unit. Contributions will be made annually in cash to the accounts of 
participants who are employed on December 31st of each calendar year.

The UPS Excess Coordinating Benefit Plan is a non-qualified plan that provides benefits to certain participants in the 

UPS Retirement Plan for amounts that exceed the benefit limits described above.

The UPS Pension Plan is noncontributory and includes certain eligible employees of participating domestic subsidiaries 

and members of collective bargaining units that elect to participate in the plan. This plan generally provides for retirement 
benefits based on service credits earned by employees prior to retirement.

80

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The UPS IBT Pension Plan is noncontributory and includes employees that were previously members of the Central 
States Pension Fund, a multiemployer pension plan, in addition to other eligible employees who are covered under certain 
collective bargaining agreements. This plan generally provides for retirement benefits based on service credits earned by 
employees prior to retirement.

During the fourth quarter of 2016, certain former U.S. employees were offered the option to receive a one-time payment 

of their vested pension benefit. Approximately 22,000 participants accepted this option, accelerating $685 million in benefit 
payments during 2016 while reducing the number of participants who are due future payments from U.S. pension plans. As the 
cost of these settlements did not exceed the plans' service cost and interest cost for the year, the impact of the settlement was not 
recognized in earnings.

International Pension Benefits

We also sponsor various defined benefit plans covering certain of our international employees. The majority of our 
international obligations are for defined benefit plans in Canada and the United Kingdom. In addition, many of our international 
employees are covered by government-sponsored retirement and pension plans. We are not directly responsible for providing 
benefits to participants of government-sponsored plans.

U.S. Postretirement Medical Benefits

We also sponsor postretirement medical plans in the U.S. that provide healthcare benefits to our retirees who meet certain 
eligibility requirements and who are not otherwise covered by multiemployer plans. Generally, this includes employees with at 
least 10 years of service who have reached age 55 and employees who are eligible for postretirement medical benefits from a 
Company-sponsored plan pursuant to collective bargaining agreements. We have the right to modify or terminate certain of 
these plans. These benefits have been provided to certain retirees on a noncontributory basis; however, in many cases, retirees 
are required to contribute all or a portion of the total cost of the coverage.

Defined Contribution Plans

We also sponsor several defined contribution plans for all employees not covered under collective bargaining agreements, 

and for certain employees covered under collective bargaining agreements. The Company matches, in shares of UPS common 
stock or cash, a portion of the participating employees’ contributions. Matching contributions charged to expense were $111, 
$104 and $95 million for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Effective July 1, 2016, the UPS Retirement Plan was closed to new non-union participants. The UPS 401(k) Savings Plan 
was amended so that employees who previously would have been eligible for participation in the UPS Retirement Plan will, in 
addition to current benefits under the UPS 401(k) Savings Plan, begin receiving a UPS Retirement Contribution.  Contributions 
associated with this amendment charged to expense were $4 million for 2016.  

Contributions are also made to defined contribution money purchase plans under certain collective bargaining 

agreements. Amounts charged to expense were $82, $83 and $82 million for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

81

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Net Periodic Benefit Cost

Information about net periodic benefit cost for the company-sponsored pension and postretirement benefit plans is as 

follows (in millions):

Net Periodic Benefit Cost:
Service cost
Interest cost
Expected return on assets
Amortization of:

Transition obligation
Prior service cost
Actuarial (gain) loss
Curtailment and settlement loss
Other
Net periodic benefit cost

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International
Pension Benefits

2016

2015

2014

2016

2015

2014

2016

2015

2014

$ 1,412
1,828
(2,516)

$ 1,527
1,694
(2,489)

$ 1,137
1,604
(2,257)

$

28
124
(6)

$

34
117
(17)

$

62
152
(25)

$

$

49
41
(58)

$

48
44
(61)

43
49
(61)

—
166
2,520
—
—
$ 3,410

—
168
70
—
—
$ 970

—
169
991
—
—
$ 1,644

—
5
17
—
—
$ 168

—
5
17
—
—
$ 156

—
—
767
356
—
$ 1,312

—
1
114
—
—
$ 147

$

—
1
31
—
—
63

$

—
1
48
—
4
84

The curtailment and settlement loss in 2014 for the U.S. postretirement medical benefit plans is discussed further in note 5 

under the section entitled "Accounting Impact of Health and Welfare Plan Changes".

Actuarial Assumptions

The table below provides the weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the net periodic benefit cost.

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International
Pension Benefits

Discount rate
Rate of compensation increase
Expected return on assets

2016
4.86%
4.29%
8.75%

2015
4.40%
4.29%
8.75%

2014
5.32%
4.29%
8.75%

2016
4.79%
N/A
8.75%

2015
4.18%
N/A
8.75%

2014
4.89%
N/A
8.75%

2016
3.51%
3.04%
5.73%

2015
3.56%
3.08%
6.03%

2014
4.35%
3.22%
6.29%

The table below provides the weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the benefit obligations of our 

plans.

Discount rate
Rate of compensation increase

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International
Pension Benefits

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

4.41%
4.27%

4.86%
4.29%

4.23%
N/A

4.79%
N/A

2.75%
3.17%

3.51%
3.04%

A discount rate is used to determine the present value of our future benefit obligations. To determine our discount rate for 
our U.S. pension and postretirement benefit plans, we use a bond matching approach to select specific bonds that would satisfy 
our projected benefit payments. We believe the bond matching approach reflects the process we would employ to settle our 
pension and postretirement benefit obligations. For our international plans, the discount rate is determined by matching the 
expected cash flows of a sample plan of similar duration to a yield curve based on long-term, high quality fixed income debt 
instruments available as of the measurement date.  These assumptions are updated each measurement date, which is typically 
annually. 

82

 
 
 
 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As of December 31, 2016, the impact of each basis point change in the discount rate on the projected benefit obligation of 

the pension and postretirement medical benefit plans is as follows (in millions):

One basis point increase in discount rate
One basis point decrease in discount rate

Increase (Decrease) in the Projected Benefit Obligation

Pension Benefits

Postretirement Medical Benefits
(2)
3

(67) $
$
71

$
$

The Society of Actuaries ("SOA") published mortality tables and improvement scales are used in developing the best 

estimate of mortality for U.S. plans. In October 2016, the SOA published an updated improvement scale which reduced 
expected mortality improvements from previously published scales. Based on our perspective of future longevity, we updated 
the mortality assumptions to incorporate this updated scale for purposes of measuring pension and other postretirement benefit 
obligations at December 31, 2016. 

Assumptions for the expected return on plan assets are used to determine a component of net periodic benefit cost for the 

fiscal year. The assumption for our U.S. plans was developed using a long-term projection of returns for each asset class, and 
taking into consideration our target asset allocation. The expected return for each asset class is a function of passive, long-term 
capital market assumptions and excess returns generated from active management. The capital market assumptions used are 
provided by independent investment advisors, while excess return assumptions are supported by historical performance, fund 
mandates and investment expectations. 

For plans outside the U.S., consideration is given to local market expectations of long-term returns. Strategic asset 
allocations are determined by plan based on the nature of liabilities and considering the demographic composition of the plan 
participants.

Actuarial Assumptions - Central States Pension Fund

UPS was a contributing employer to the Central States Pension Fund (“CSPF”) until 2007 when we withdrew from the 

plan and fully funded our allocable share of unfunded vested benefits by paying a $6.1 billion withdrawal liability. Under a 
collective bargaining agreement with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (“IBT”), UPS agreed to provide coordinating 
benefits in the UPS/IBT Full Time Employee Pension Plan (“UPS/IBT Plan”) for UPS participants whose last employer was 
UPS and who had not retired as of January 1, 2008 (“the UPS Transfer Group”) in the event that benefits are lawfully reduced 
by the CSPF in the future consistent with the terms of our withdrawal agreement with the CSPF. 

In December 2014, Congress passed the Multiemployer Pension Reform Act (“MPRA”), which for the first time ever 
allowed multiemployer pension plans to reduce benefit payments to retirees, subject to specific guidelines in the statute and 
government approval. In September 2015, the CSPF submitted a proposed pension benefit reduction plan to the U.S. 
Department of the Treasury under the MPRA. The CSPF plan proposed to reduce retirement benefits to the CSPF participants, 
including the UPS Transfer Group. We vigorously challenged the proposed benefit reduction plan because we believed that it 
did not comply with the law and that the CSPF failed to comply with its contractual obligation to obtain our consent to reduce 
benefits to the UPS Transfer Group under the terms of the withdrawal agreement with the CSPF. On May 6, 2016, the U.S. 
Department of the Treasury rejected the proposed plan submitted by the CSPF, stating that it failed to satisfy a number of 
requirements set forth in the MPRA.

The CSPF has asserted that it will become insolvent in 2025, which could lead to the reduction of retirement benefits. 
Although there are numerous factors that could affect the CSPF’s funding status, if the CSPF were to become insolvent as they 
have projected, UPS may be required to provide coordinating benefits, thereby increasing the current projected benefit 
obligation for the UPS/IBT Plan by approximately $4 billion. The CSPF has said that it believes a legislative solution to its 
funding status is necessary, and we expect that the CSPF will continue to explore options to avoid insolvency. 

The potential obligation to pay coordinating benefits from the UPS/IBT Plan is subject to a number of significant 

uncertainties, including actions that may be taken by the CSPF, the federal government or others. These actions include whether 
the CSPF will submit a revised pension benefit reduction plan or otherwise seek federal government assistance, the extent to 
which benefits are paid by the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, our ability to successfully defend our legal positions as 
well as the effect of discount rates and various other actuarial assumptions. 

83

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We account for this potential obligation under Accounting Standards Codification Topic 715- Compensation- Retirement 
Benefits (“ASC 715”). Under ASC 715 we are required to provide a best estimate of various actuarial assumptions, including 
the eventual outcome of this matter, in measuring our pension benefit obligation at the December 31st measurement date. While 
we currently believe the most likely solution to this matter and the broader systemic problems facing multi-employer pension 
plans is intervention by the federal government, ASC 715 does not permit anticipation of changes in law in making a best 
estimate of pension liabilities. Our best estimate as of the measurement date of December 31, 2016 does not incorporate this 
solution. Rather, our best estimate of the next most likely outcome to resolve the CSPF’s solvency concerns is that the CSPF 
will make another MPRA filing to forestall insolvency without reducing benefits to the UPS Transfer Group. If the CSPF 
attempts to reduce benefits for the UPS Transfer Group under a MPRA filing we would be in a strong legal position to prevent 
that from occurring given that these benefits cannot be reduced without our consent and such a reduction, without first 
exhausting reductions to other groups in the CSPF, would be contrary to the statute. Accordingly, our best estimate as of the 
measurement date of December 31, 2016 is that there is no liability to be recognized for additional coordinating benefits of the 
UPS/IBT Plan. However, the projected benefit obligation could materially increase as these uncertainties are resolved. We will 
continue to assess the impact of these uncertainties on the projected benefit obligation of the UPS/IBT Plan in accordance with 
ASC 715.

Other Actuarial Assumptions

Healthcare cost trends are used to project future postretirement benefits payable from our plans. For year-end 2016 U.S. 

plan obligations, future postretirement medical benefit costs were forecasted assuming an initial annual increase of 7.0%, 
decreasing to 4.5% by the year 2021 and with consistent annual increases at those ultimate levels thereafter.

Assumed healthcare cost trends can have a significant effect on the amounts reported for our postretirement medical 

plans. A one percent change in assumed healthcare cost trend rates would have had the following effects on 2016 results (in 
millions):

Effect on total of service cost and interest cost
Effect on postretirement benefit obligation

Funded Status

1% Increase

$
$

3
71

1% Decrease
$
$

(3)
(76)

The following table discloses the funded status of our plans and the amounts recognized in our consolidated balance 

sheets as of December 31st (in millions):

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International
Pension Benefits

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

Funded Status:
Fair value of plan assets
Benefit obligation

Funded status recognized at December 31
Funded Status Recognized in our Balance Sheet:
Other non-current assets

Other current liabilities

Pension and postretirement benefit obligations

Net liability at December 31
Amounts Recognized in AOCI:
Unrecognized net prior service cost
Unrecognized net actuarial gain (loss)
Gross unrecognized cost at December 31
Deferred tax assets (liabilities) at December 31

Net unrecognized cost at December 31

$ 31,215
(41,069)

$ 1,014
(1,219)
$ (9,854) $ (7,959) $ (2,715) $ (2,543) $ (333) $ (205)

$ 28,887
(36,846)

$ 1,092
(1,425)

15
(2,730)

130
(2,673)

$

$

$

— $

— $
(17)
(9,837)

48
(3)
(250)
$ (9,854) $ (7,959) $ (2,715) $ (2,543) $ (333) $ (205)

— $
(16)
(7,943)

— $
(98)
(2,445)

28
(3)
(358)

(216)
(2,499)

$

$ (1,074) $
(4,107)
(5,181)
1,948

(954) $

(3,263)
(4,217)
1,585

$ (3,233) $ (2,632) $

(36) $
(80)
(116)
44
(72) $

84

(3) $

(26) $
32
6
(2)
4

(150)
(153)
37
$ (116) $

(4)
(103)
(107)
26
(81)

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The accumulated benefit obligation for our pension plans as of the measurement dates in 2016 and 2015 was $39.488 and 

$35.320 billion, respectively.

Benefit payments under the pension plans include $22 million paid from employer assets in 2016 and in 2015. Benefit 
payments (net of participant contributions) under the postretirement medical benefit plans include $98 and $111 million paid 
from employer assets in 2016 and 2015, respectively. Such benefit payments from employer assets are also categorized as 
employer contributions.

At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the projected benefit obligation, the accumulated benefit obligation and the fair value of 

plan assets for pension plans with benefit obligations in excess of plan assets were as follows (in millions):

U.S. Pension Benefits:
Projected benefit obligation
Accumulated benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets
International Pension Benefits:
Projected benefit obligation
Accumulated benefit obligation
Fair value of plan assets

Projected Benefit Obligation 
Exceeds the Fair Value of Plan Assets

Accumulated Benefit Obligation 
Exceeds the Fair Value of Plan Assets

2016

2015

2016

2015

$

$

$

$

41,069
38,194
31,215

1,370
1,238
1,020

$

$

36,846
34,210
28,887

493
416
247

$

$

41,069
38,194
31,215

1,365
1,234
1,016

36,846
34,210
28,887

477
401
232

The accumulated postretirement benefit obligation exceeds plan assets for all of our U.S. postretirement medical benefit 

plans.

85

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Benefit Obligations and Fair Value of Plan Assets

The following table provides a reconciliation of the changes in the plans’ benefit obligations and fair value of plan assets 

as of the respective measurement dates in each year (in millions).

Benefit Obligations:
Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year
Service cost
Interest cost
Gross benefits paid
Plan participants’ contributions
Plan amendments(1)
Actuarial (gain)/loss
Foreign currency exchange rate changes
Curtailments and settlements
Other
Projected benefit obligation at end of year

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International
Pension
Benefits

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

$ 36,846
1,412
1,828
(1,885)
—
285
2,583
—
—
—
$ 41,069

$ 37,521
1,527
1,694
(1,056)
—
—
(2,840)
—
—
—
$ 36,846

$

$

2,673
28
124
(264)
27
15
126
—
—
1
2,730

$

$

2,883
34
117
(261)
21
—
(120)
—
—
(1)
2,673

$

$

1,219
49
41
(28)
3
—
208
(67)
(3)
3
1,425

$

$

1,274
48
44
(30)
3
(2)
13
(138)
(3)
10
1,219

(1) Resulting from a new labor contract with the Independent Pilots Association. See "Status of Collective Bargaining Agreements" in note 5.

Fair Value of Plan Assets:
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
Actual return on plan assets
Employer contributions
Plan participants’ contributions
Gross benefits paid
Foreign currency exchange rate changes
Curtailments and settlements
Other
Fair value of plan assets at end of year

Pension and Postretirement Plan Assets

U.S. Pension Benefits

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International
Pension
Benefits

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

$ 28,887
1,735
2,478
—
(1,885)
—
—
—
$ 31,215

$ 28,828
67
1,048
—
(1,056)
—
—
—
$ 28,887

$

$

130
3
119
27
(264)
—
—
—
15

$

$

259
—
111
21
(261)
—
—
—
130

$

$

1,014
108
71
3
(28)
(73)
(3)
—
1,092

$

$

1,042
43
70
3
(30)
(113)
(3)
2
1,014

Under the governance of plan trustees, the Investment Committee establishes investment guidelines and strategies and 

regularly monitors the performance of investments and investment managers. The investment guidelines address items such as 
establishing appropriate governance provisions; defining investment objectives; determining strategic asset allocation; 
monitoring and reporting the investments on a regular basis; appointing/dismissing investment managers, custodians, 
consultants, advisors; risk management; determining/defining the mandates for investment managers; rebalancing of assets; and 
determining investment restrictions/prohibited investments. 

Pension assets are invested in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. The primary long-term investment 
objectives for pension assets are to: (1) provide for a reasonable amount of long-term growth of capital given prudent levels of 
risk exposure while minimizing permanent loss of capital; (2) generate investment results that meet or exceed the long-term rate 
of return assumption for the plans; and (3) match the duration of the liabilities and assets of the plans to reduce the need for 
large employer contributions in the future. In furtherance of these objectives, investment managers are engaged to actively 
manage assets within the guidelines and strategies set forth by the Investment Committee. Active managers are monitored 
regularly and their performance is compared to applicable benchmarks.

86

 
 
 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Fair Value Measurements

Pension assets utilizing Level 1 inputs include equity investments, corporate debt instruments, and U.S. government 

securities. Fair values were determined by closing prices for those securities traded on national stock exchanges, while 
securities traded in the over-the-counter market and listed securities for which no sale was reported on the valuation date are 
valued at the mean between the last reported bid and asked prices.

Level 2 assets include certain bonds that are valued based on yields currently available on comparable securities of other 

issues with similar credit ratings, mortgage-backed securities that are valued based on cash flow and yield models using 
acceptable modeling and pricing conventions, and certain investments that are pooled with other investments in a commingled 
fund. We value our investments in commingled funds by taking the percentage ownership of the underlying assets, each of 
which has a readily determinable fair value.

Fair value estimates for certain investments are based on unobservable inputs that are not corroborated by observable 

market data and are thus classified as Level 3. 

Investments that do not have a readily determinable fair value, and which provide a NAV (or its equivalent) developed 

consistent with FASB measurement principles, are valued using NAV as a practical expedient. These investments are not 
classified in Levels 1, 2, or 3 of the fair value hierarchy, but are included in the totals in the tables shown below. These 
investments include hedge funds, risk parity funds, real estate investments, private debt and private equity funds. Investments in 
hedge funds are valued using reported NAVs as of December 31st. These assets are primarily invested in a portfolio of 
diversified, direct investments, and funds of hedge funds. Real estate investments, private debt and private equity funds are 
valued using fair values per the most recent partnership audited financial reports, adjusted, as appropriate, for any lag between 
the date of the financial reports and December 31st. The fair values may, due to the inherent uncertainty of valuation for those 
alternative investments, differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market for the alternative 
investments existed, and any differences could be material. These investments are described further below:

•  Hedge Funds:  Plan assets are invested in hedge funds that pursue multiple strategies to diversify risk and reduce 

volatility. Most of these hedge funds allow redemptions either quarterly or semi-annually after a two to three month 
notice period, while others allow for redemption after only a brief notification period with no restriction on redemption 
frequency. At December 31, 2016, unfunded commitments to hedge funds totaling approximately $5 million are 
expected to be contributed over the remaining investment period, typically ranging between two and four years. 

•  Risk Parity Funds:  Plan assets are invested in risk parity strategies in order to provide diversification and balance  

risk/return objectives. These strategies reflect a multi-asset class balanced risk approach generally consisting of equity, 
interest rates, credit, and commodities. These funds allow for monthly redemptions with only a brief notification 
period. No unfunded commitments existed with respect to risk parity funds as of December 31, 2016.

•  Real Estate, Private Debt and Private Equity Funds:  Plan assets are invested in limited partnership interests in various 

private equity, private debt and real estate funds. Limited provision exists for the redemption of these interests by the 
limited partners that invest in these funds until the end of the term of the partnerships, typically ranging between 10 
and 15 years from the date of inception. An active secondary market exists for similar partnership interests, although 
no particular value (discount or premium) can be guaranteed. At December 31, 2016, unfunded commitments to such 
limited partnerships totaling approximately $1.908 billion are expected to be contributed over the remaining 
investment period, typically ranging between three and six years.

87

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The fair values of U.S. and international pension and postretirement benefit plan assets by asset category as of 

December 31, 2016 are presented below (in millions), as well as the percentage that each category comprises of our total plan 
assets and the respective target allocations.

Total
Assets

(1)

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Percentage of
Plan Assets -
2016

Target
Allocation
2016

Asset Category (U.S. Plans):
Cash and cash equivalents
Equity Securities:
U.S. Large Cap
U.S. Small Cap
Emerging Markets
Global Equity
International Equity

Total Equity Securities

Fixed Income Securities:

U.S. Government Securities
Corporate Bonds
Global Bonds
Municipal Bonds

Total Fixed Income Securities

Other Investments:
Hedge Funds
Private Equity
Private Debt
Real Estate
Structured Products(2)
Risk Parity Funds
Total U.S. Plan Assets
Asset Category (International Plans):
Cash and cash equivalents
Equity Securities:

Local Markets Equity
U.S. Equity
Emerging Markets
International / Global Equity
Total Equity Securities

Fixed Income Securities:

Local Government Bonds
Corporate Bonds

Total Fixed Income Securities

Other Investments:
Real Estate
Other

Total International Plan Assets
Total Plan Assets

$

304

$

102

$

202

$

4,883
542
1,396
2,603
3,026
12,450

6,173
4,492
161
24
10,850

2,327
393
1,236
2,555
2,197
8,708

5,821
—
—
—
5,821

2,556
149
160
48
829
3,742

352
4,492
59
24
4,927

2,867
1,716
496
1,734
492
321
$ 31,230

—
—
—
122
—
—
$ 14,753

763
—
—
144
492
—
$ 10,270

$

$

54

$

37

$

17

188
20
26
288
522

84
158
242

—
—
26
141
167

22
51
73

188
20
—
147
355

62
107
169

93
181
$ 1,092
$ 32,322

—
—
277
$
$ 15,030

57
175
773
$
$ 11,043

$
$

—

—
—
—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—
—

—
—
—
—
—
—
—

—

—
—
—
—
—

—
—
—

—
—
—
—

1.0%

0-5

39.9

35-55

34.6

25-35

9.2
5.5
1.6
5.6
1.6
1.0
100.0%

5-15
1-10
1-10
1-10
0-5
1-10

4.9

0-15

47.7

50-65

22.2

15-35

8.5
16.7
100.0%

0-17
0-20

(1) In accordance with ASU No. 2015-07, certain investments that are measured at fair value using the NAV per share (or its equivalent) practical 

expedient have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy but are included in the category totals. 

(2) Represents mortgage and asset-backed securities.

88

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The fair values of U.S. and international pension and postretirement benefit plan assets by asset category as of 

December 31, 2015 are presented below (in millions), as well as the percentage that each category comprises of our total plan 
assets and the respective target allocations. 

Total
Assets

(1)

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Percentage of
Plan Assets -
2015

Target
Allocation
2015

Asset Category (U.S. Plans):
Cash and cash equivalents
Equity Securities:
U.S. Large Cap
U.S. Small Cap
Emerging Markets
Global Equity
International Equity

Total Equity Securities

Fixed Income Securities:

U.S. Government Securities
Corporate Bonds
Global Bonds
Municipal Bonds

Total Fixed Income Securities

Other Investments:
Hedge Funds
Private Equity
Real Estate
Structured Products(2)
Risk Parity Funds
Total U.S. Plan Assets
Asset Category (International Plans):
Cash and cash equivalents
Equity Securities:

Local Markets Equity
U.S. Equity
Emerging Markets
International / Global Equity
Total Equity Securities

Fixed Income Securities:

Local Government Bonds
Corporate Bonds

Total Fixed Income Securities

Other Investments:
Real Estate
Other

Total International Plan Assets
Total Plan Assets

$

811

$

716

$

95

$

4,246
352
1,426
2,935
3,089
12,048

3,469
3,961
733
36
8,199

2,542
310
1,271
2,935
2,308
9,366

3,257
—
—
—
3,257

1,704
42
155
—
781
2,682

212
3,682
147
36
4,077

3,617
1,415
1,848
324
755
$ 29,017

—
—
126
—
—
$ 13,465

—
—
155
324
—
$ 7,333

$

$

25

$

9

$

16

240
16
16
176
448

72
149
221

133
16
16
84
249

72
56
128

107
—
—
92
199

—
93
93

111
209
$ 1,014
$ 30,031

—
—
386
$
$ 13,851

69
160
537
$
$ 7,870

$
$

—

—
—
—
—
—
—

—
6
—
—
6

—
—
—
—
—
6

—

—
—
—
—
—

—
—
—

—
49
49
55

2.8%

0-5

41.5

35-55

28.2

25-35

12.5
4.9
6.4
1.1
2.6
100.0%

5-15
1-10
1-10
0-5
1-10

2.5

0-5

44.1

50-65

21.8

15-35

10.9
20.7
100.0%

0-17
0-20

(1) In accordance with ASU No. 2015-07, certain investments that are measured at fair value using the NAV per share (or its equivalent) practical 

expedient have not been classified in the fair value hierarchy but are included in the category totals. 

(2) Represents mortgage and asset-backed securities.

89

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Investments classified in prior years as Level 2 and Level 3 that are measured at fair value using the NAV per share (or its 

equivalent) practical expedient have been removed from the fair value hierarchy in accordance with retrospective adoption of 
Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-07. As a result, a reclassification has been made within the prior year's plan asset 
classification table to conform to the current year's presentation. 

The following table presents the changes in the Level 3 instruments measured on a recurring basis for the years ended 

December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions). 

Balance on January 1, 2015
Actual Return on Assets:

Assets Held at End of Year
Assets Sold During the Year

Purchases
Sales
Transfers Into (Out of) Level 3
Balance on December 31, 2015
Actual Return on Assets:

Assets Held at End of Year
Assets Sold During the Year

Purchases
Sales
Transfers Into (Out of) Level 3
Balance on December 31, 2016

$

$

$

Corporate
Bonds

Other

(1)

Total

8

$

53

$

(1)
—
3
(4)
—
6

$

—
—
—
(6)
—
— $

(4)
—
—
—
—
49

$

—
(49)
—
—
—
— $

61

(5)
—
3
(4)
—
55

—
(49)
—
(6)
—
—

(1) Investments that are measured at fair value using the NAV per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have been removed from the fair value 

hierarchy in accordance with retrospective adoption of Accounting Standards Update No. 2015-07.

There were no UPS class A or B shares of common stock directly held in plan assets as of December 31, 2016 or 

December 31, 2015.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

The estimated amounts of prior service cost in AOCI expected to be amortized and recognized as a component of net 

periodic benefit cost in 2017 are as follows (in millions):

Prior service cost / (benefit)

U.S. Pension Benefits

$

192

$

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International Pension
Benefits

7

$

1

90

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Expected Cash Flows

Information about expected cash flows for the pension and postretirement benefit plans is as follows (in millions):

Expected Employer Contributions:
2017 to plan trusts
2017 to plan participants
Expected Benefit Payments:

2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022-2026

U.S.
Pension Benefits

U.S. Postretirement
Medical Benefits

International Pension
Benefits

$

$

$

$

2,291
17

1,180
1,292
1,412
1,542
1,680
10,627

$

$

154
87

239
235
236
232
225
986

66
3

23
23
26
29
34
235

Our funding policy for U.S. plans is to contribute amounts annually that are at least equal to the amounts required by 

applicable laws and regulations, or to directly fund payments to plan participants, as applicable. International plans will be 
funded in accordance with local regulations. Additional discretionary contributions may be made when deemed appropriate to 
meet the long-term obligations of the plans. Expected benefit payments for pensions will be primarily paid from plan trusts. 
Expected benefit payments for postretirement medical benefits will be paid from plan trusts and corporate assets.

NOTE 5. MULTIEMPLOYER EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

We contribute to a number of multiemployer defined benefit plans under the terms of collective bargaining agreements that 

cover our union-represented employees. These plans generally provide for retirement, death and/or termination benefits for eligible 
employees within the applicable collective bargaining units, based on specific eligibility/participation requirements, vesting periods 
and benefit formulas. The risks of participating in these multiemployer plans are different from single-employer plans in the following 
aspects:

•  Assets contributed to a multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other 

participating employers.

• 

• 

If we negotiate to cease participating in a multiemployer plan, we may be required to pay that plan an amount based on our 
allocable share of its underfunded status, referred to as a "withdrawal liability". However, cessation of participation in a 
multiemployer plan and subsequent payment of any withdrawal liability is subject to the collective bargaining process.

If any of the multiemployer pension plans in which we participate enter critical status, and our contributions are not sufficient 
to satisfy any rehabilitation plan funding schedule, we could be required under the Pension Protection Act of 2006 to make 
additional surcharge contributions to the multiemployer pension plan in the amount of five to ten percent of the existing 
contributions required by our labor agreement. Such surcharges would cease upon the ratification of a new collective 
bargaining agreement, and could not recur unless a plan re-entered critical status at a later date.  

The discussion that follows sets forth the financial impact on our results of operations and cash flows for the years ended 
December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 from our participation in multiemployer benefit plans. As part of the overall collective bargaining 
process for wage and benefit levels, we have agreed to contribute certain amounts to the multiemployer benefit plans during the 
contract period. The multiemployer benefit plans set benefit levels and are responsible for benefit delivery to participants. Future 
contribution amounts to multiemployer benefit plans are determined only through collective bargaining, and we have no additional 
legal or constructive obligation to increase contributions beyond the agreed-upon amounts (except potential surcharges under the 
Pension Protection Act of 2006 as described above).  

The number of employees covered by our multiemployer pension plans has remained consistent over the past three years, and 
there have been no significant changes that affect the comparability of 2016, 2015 and 2014 contributions. We recognize expense for 
the contractually-required contribution for each period, and we recognize a liability for any contributions due and unpaid at the end of 
a reporting period.

91

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Status of Collective Bargaining Agreements

As of December 31, 2016, we had approximately 268,000 employees employed under a national master agreement and various 

supplemental agreements with local unions affiliated with the Teamsters. During 2014, the Teamsters ratified a new national master 
agreement (“NMA”) with UPS that will expire on July 31, 2018. The economic provisions in the NMA included wage rate increases, 
as well as increased contribution rates for healthcare and pension benefits. Most of these economic provisions were retroactive to 
August 1, 2013, which was the effective date of the NMA. In 2014 and 2015, we remitted $278 and $53 million, respectively, for these 
retroactive economic benefits; this payment had an immaterial impact on net income, as these retroactive economic benefits had been 
accrued since the July 31, 2013 expiration of the prior agreement.  

In addition to the retroactive economic provisions of the NMA, there were certain changes to the delivery of healthcare benefits 

that were effective at various dates. These changes impact approximately 36,000 full-time and 73,000 part-time active employees 
covered by the NMA and the UPS Freight collective bargaining agreement (collectively referred to as the “NMA Group”), as well as 
approximately 16,000 employees covered by other collective bargaining agreements (the “Non-NMA Group”).  These provisions are 
discussed further below in the "Changes to the Delivery of Active and Postretirement Healthcare Benefits" section.  

We have approximately 2,600 pilots who are employed under a collective bargaining agreement with the Independent Pilots 

Association ("IPA"), which became amendable at the end of 2011. On August 31, 2016, the IPA members voted to ratify a new five-
year labor contract. Terms of the agreement became effective September 1, 2016 and run through September 1, 2021. The economic 
provisions in the agreement included pay increases, a signing bonus and enhanced pension benefits.

Our airline mechanics are covered by a collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 2727, which became amendable 

November 1, 2013. We are currently in negotiations with Teamsters Local 2727. In addition, approximately 3,000 of our auto and 
maintenance mechanics who are not employed under agreements with the Teamsters are employed under collective bargaining 
agreements with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (“IAM”) that will expire on July 31, 2019.

Multiemployer Pension Plans

The following table outlines our participation in multiemployer pension plans for the periods ended December 31, 2016, 2015 

and 2014, and sets forth our calendar year contributions and accruals for each plan. The “EIN/Pension Plan Number” column provides 
the Employer Identification Number (“EIN”) and the three-digit plan number. The most recent Pension Protection Act zone status 
available in 2016 and 2015 relates to the plans’ two most recent fiscal year-ends. The zone status is based on information that we 
received from the plans’ administrators and is certified by each plan’s actuary. Among other factors, plans certified in the red zone are 
generally less than 65% funded, plans certified in the orange zone are both less than 80% funded and have an accumulated funding 
deficiency or are expected to have a deficiency in any of the next six plan years, plans certified in the yellow zone are less than 80% 
funded, and plans certified in the green zone are at least 80% funded. The “FIP/RP Status Pending/Implemented” column indicates 
whether a financial improvement plan (“FIP”) for yellow/orange zone plans, or a rehabilitation plan (“RP”) for red zone plans, is 
either pending or has been implemented. As of December 31, 2016, all plans that have either a FIP or RP requirement have had the 
respective FIP or RP implemented.

Our collectively-bargained contributions satisfy the requirements of all implemented FIPs and RPs and do not currently require 

the payment of any surcharges. In addition, minimum contributions outside of the agreed upon contractual rate are not required. For 
the plans detailed in the following table, the expiration date of the associated collective bargaining agreements is July 31, 2018, with 
the exception of the Automotive Industries Pension Plan and the IAM National Pension Fund / National Pension Plan which both have 
a July 31, 2019 expiration date. For all plans detailed in the following table, we provided more than 5% of the total plan contributions 
from all employers for 2016, 2015 and 2014 (as disclosed in the Form 5500 for each respective plan).

92

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Certain plans have been aggregated in the “all other multiemployer pension plans” line in the following table, as the 

contributions to each of these individual plans were not material.

EIN / Pension
Plan

Pension
Protection Act
Zone Status

FIP / RP Status
Pending /

(in millions)
UPS Contributions and 
Accruals

Surcharge

Number

2016

2015

Implemented

2016

2015

2014

Imposed

Yes/Implemented

$

Yes/Implemented

No

No

Yes/Implemented

Yes/Implemented

No

No

Pension Fund

Alaska Teamster-Employer Pension Plan

Automotive Industries Pension Plan

Central Pennsylvania Teamsters Defined Benefit Plan

Eastern Shore Teamsters Pension Fund

Employer-Teamsters Local Nos. 175 & 505 Pension
Trust Fund

Hagerstown Motor Carriers and Teamsters Pension Fund

92-6003463-024

94-1133245-001

23-6262789-001

52-0904953-001

55-6021850-001

52-6045424-001

Red

Red

Green

Green

Red

Red

Red

Red

Green

Green

Red

Red

I.A.M. National Pension Fund / National Pension Plan

51-6031295-002

Green

Green

International Brotherhood of Teamsters Union Local
No. 710 Pension Fund

Local 705, International Brotherhood of Teamsters
Pension Plan

Local 804 I.B.T. & Local 447 I.A.M.—UPS
Multiemployer Retirement Plan

36-2377656-001

Green

Green

36-6492502-001

Red

Red

Yes/Implemented

51-6117726-001

Red

Red

Yes/Implemented

Milwaukee Drivers Pension Trust Fund

39-6045229-001

Green

Green

No

New England Teamsters & Trucking Industry Pension
Fund

New York State Teamsters Conference Pension and
Retirement Fund

16-6063585-074

Red

Red

Yes/Implemented

Teamster Pension Fund of Philadelphia and Vicinity

23-1511735-001

Yellow Yellow

Yes/Implemented

Teamsters Joint Council No. 83 of Virginia Pension Fund

54-6097996-001

Yellow Yellow

Yes/Implemented

Teamsters Local 639—Employers Pension Trust

Teamsters Negotiated Pension Plan

Truck Drivers and Helpers Local Union No. 355
Retirement Pension Plan

United Parcel Service, Inc.—Local 177, I.B.T.
Multiemployer Retirement Plan

53-0237142-001

43-6196083-001

Green

Green

Green

Green

No

No

52-6043608-001

Yellow Yellow

Yes/Implemented

13-1426500-419

Red

Red

Yes/Implemented

Western Conference of Teamsters Pension Plan

91-6145047-001

Green

Green

No

Western Pennsylvania Teamsters and Employers Pension
Fund

All Other Multiemployer Pension Plans

25-6029946-001

Red

Red

Yes/Implemented

5

4

38

5

11

7

31

$

5

4

36

4

11

7

29

107

106

88

103

36

91

97

35

$

5

5

33

4

10

6

27

89

69

92

32

91

56

61

51

31

19

83

694

28

56

86

53

57

48

30

17

83

646

26

42

81

50

52

45

27

16

85

604

24

53

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

No

04-6372430-001

Red

Red

Yes/Implemented

114

110

108

Total Contributions

$1,719

$1,623

$1,517

Agreement with the New England Teamsters and Trucking Industry Pension Fund

In 2012, we reached an agreement with the New England Teamsters and Trucking Industry Pension Fund ("NETTI Fund"), a 

multiemployer pension plan in which UPS is a participant, to restructure the pension liabilities for approximately 10,200 UPS 
employees represented by the Teamsters. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, we had $866 and $872 million, respectively, recognized 
in "other non-current liabilities" on our consolidated balance sheets representing the remaining balance of the NETTI Fund withdrawal 
liability. Based on the borrowing rates currently available to the Company for long-term financing of a similar maturity, the fair value 
of the NETTI Fund withdrawal liability as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $861 and $841 million. We utilized Level 2 inputs in 
the fair value hierarchy of valuation techniques to determine the fair value of this liability.

93

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Multiemployer Health and Welfare Plans

We also contribute to several multiemployer health and welfare plans that cover both active and retired employees. Health care 

benefits are provided to participants who meet certain eligibility requirements as covered under the applicable collective bargaining 
unit. The following table sets forth our calendar year plan contributions and accruals. Certain plans have been aggregated in the “all 
other multiemployer health and welfare plans” line in the table, as the contributions to each of these individual plans are not material.

Health and Welfare Fund
Central States, South East & South West Areas Health and Welfare Fund
Teamsters Western Region & Local 177 Health Care Plan
Health & Welfare Insurance Fund Teamsters Local 653
Bay Area Delivery Drivers
Central Pennsylvania Teamsters Health & Pension Fund
Delta Health Systems—East Bay Drayage Drivers
Employer—Teamster Local Nos. 175 & 505
Joint Council #83 Health & Welfare Fund
Local 191 Teamsters Health Fund
Local 401 Teamsters Health & Welfare Fund
Local 804 Welfare Trust Fund
Milwaukee Drivers Pension Trust Fund—Milwaukee Drivers Health and Welfare Trust Fund
Montana Teamster Employers Trust
New York State Teamsters Health & Hospital Fund
North Coast Benefit Trust
Northern California General Teamsters (DELTA)
Northern New England Benefit Trust
Oregon / Teamster Employers Trust
Teamsters 170 Health & Welfare Fund
Teamsters Benefit Trust
Teamsters Local 251 Health & Insurance Plan
Teamsters Local 404 Health & Insurance Plan
Teamsters Local 638 Health Fund
Teamsters Local 639—Employers Health & Pension Trust Funds
Teamsters Local 671 Health Services & Insurance Plan
Teamsters Union 25 Health Services & Insurance Plan
Teamsters Union Local 677 Health Services & Insurance Plan
Truck Drivers and Helpers Local 355 Baltimore Area Health & Welfare Fund
Utah-Idaho Teamsters Security Fund
Washington Teamsters Welfare Trust
All Other Multiemployer Health and Welfare Plans
Total Contributions

(in millions)
UPS Contributions and Accruals

2016
$ 2,268
571
6
35
25
27
11
33
12
8
79
36
8
56
8
116
47
34
16
43
14
7
40
27
17
50
10
16
26
47
68
$ 3,761

2015
$ 2,081
515
6
34
23
27
10
28
11
7
75
34
7
53
8
108
42
31
15
36
13
7
39
26
15
46
10
15
25
44
95
$ 3,486

2014
$ 1,306
239
5
32
21
24
9
26
11
7
70
32
7
51
9
96
39
29
15
40
12
7
35
26
14
44
9
15
22
36
64
$ 2,352

The increases in 2015 contributions to the Central States, South East & South West Areas Health and Welfare Fund and to the 

Teamsters Western Region & Local 177 Health Care Plan are related to the changes to the delivery of active and postretirement 
healthcare benefits described below.

94

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Changes to the Delivery of Active and Postretirement Healthcare Benefits

Prior to ratification, the NMA Group and Non-NMA Group employees received their healthcare benefits through UPS-sponsored 

active and postretirement health and welfare benefit plans. Effective June 1, 2014, we ceased providing healthcare benefits to active 
NMA Group employees through these UPS-sponsored benefit plans, and the responsibility for providing healthcare benefits for active 
employees was assumed by three separate multiemployer healthcare funds (the “Funds”). The responsibility for providing healthcare 
benefits for the active Non-NMA Group employees was also assumed by the Funds on various dates up to January 1, 2015, depending 
on the ratification date of the applicable collective bargaining agreement. We will make contributions to the Funds based on negotiated 
fixed hourly or monthly contribution rates for the duration of the NMA and other applicable collective bargaining agreements.  

Additionally, the Funds assumed the obligation to provide postretirement healthcare benefits to the employees in the NMA 

Group who retire on or after January 1, 2014. The postretirement healthcare benefit obligation for the employees in the Non-NMA 
Group was assumed by the Funds for employees retiring on or after January 1, 2014 or January 1, 2015, depending on the applicable 
collective bargaining agreement. In exchange for the assumption of the obligation to provide postretirement healthcare benefits to the 
NMA Group and Non-NMA Group, we transferred cash totaling $2.271 billion to the Funds in the second quarter of 2014.  UPS-
sponsored health and welfare benefit plans retained responsibility for providing postretirement healthcare coverage for employees in 
the NMA Group who retired from UPS prior to January 1, 2014, and for employees in the Non-NMA Group who retired from UPS 
prior to the January 1, 2014 or January 1, 2015 effective date in the applicable collective bargaining agreement.  

Accounting Impact of Health and Welfare Plan Changes

Income Statement Impact:

We recorded a pre-tax charge of $1.066 billion ($665 million after-tax) in the second quarter of 2014 for the health and welfare 

plan changes described above. The components of this charge, which was included in "compensation and benefits" expense in the 
statement of consolidated income, are as follows:

•  Partial Plan Curtailment:  We recorded a $112 million pre-tax curtailment loss due to the elimination of future service 

benefit accruals. This curtailment loss represents the accelerated recognition of unamortized prior service costs.

•  Remeasurement of Postretirement Obligation:  We recorded a $746 million pre-tax loss due to the remeasurement of the 

postretirement benefit obligations of the affected UPS-sponsored health and welfare benefit plans.  

•  Settlement:  We recorded a $208 million pre-tax settlement loss, which represents the recognition of unamortized actuarial 

losses associated with the postretirement obligation for the NMA Group.  

We recorded an additional pre-tax charge of $36 million ($22 million after-tax) in the fourth quarter of 2014 upon ratification of 

the collective bargaining agreements covering the Non-NMA Group, related to the remeasurement and settlement of the postretirement 
benefit obligation associated with those employees.

Balance Sheet and Cash Flow Impact:

During 2014, as part of the health and welfare plan changes described previously, we transferred cash totaling $2.271 billion to 

the Funds, which was accounted for as a settlement of our postretirement benefit obligations. We received approximately $854 million 
of cash tax benefits (through reduced U.S. Federal and state quarterly income tax payments) in 2014.

For NMA Group employees who retired prior to January 1, 2014 and remained with the UPS-sponsored health and welfare 
plans, the changes to the contributions, benefits and cost sharing provisions in these plans resulted in an increase in the postretirement 
benefit obligation and a corresponding decrease in pre-tax AOCI of $13 million upon ratification.

95

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 6. GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS

The following table indicates the allocation of goodwill by reportable segment (in millions):

Balance on January 1, 2015

Acquired
Currency / Other

Balance on December 31, 2015

Acquired
Currency / Other

Balance on December 31, 2016

2016 Goodwill Activity:

U.S. Domestic
Package

International
Package

Supply Chain &
Freight

$

$

$

6
709
—
715
—
—
715

$

$

$

449
—
(24)
425
—
(18)
407

$

$

$

1,729
585
(35)
2,279
359
(3)
2,635

Consolidated
2,184
$
1,294
(59)
3,419
359
(21)
3,757

$

$

The goodwill acquired in the Supply Chain & Freight segment is related to our December 2016 acquisition of Maze 1 

Limited ("Marken"). See note 7 for further discussion of this acquisition. 

The purchase price allocation for acquired companies can be modified for up to one year from the date of acquisition. 

2015 Goodwill Activity:

The goodwill acquired in the U.S. Domestic Package segment was related to our August 2015 acquisition of Coyote 
Logistics Midco, Inc ("Coyote"). The goodwill acquired in the Supply Chain & Freight segment was related to our March 2015 
acquisition of Poltraf Sp. z.o.o. ("Poltraf"), our May 2015 acquisition of Parcel Pro, Inc. ("Parcel Pro"), our June 2015 
acquisition of the Insured Parcel Services division of G4S International Logistics ("IPS") and our August 2015 acquisition of 
Coyote.  

Goodwill Impairment

We test our goodwill for impairment annually, as of October 1st, on a reporting unit basis which we own at the testing 

date. Our reporting units are comprised of the U.S. Domestic Package reporting unit, the Europe, Asia, Americas and ISMEA 
(Indian Subcontinent, Middle East and Africa) reporting units in the International Package reporting segment and the 
Forwarding, Logistics, UPS Mail Innovations, UPS Freight, The UPS Store, UPS Capital, Coyote Logistics and Marken 
reporting units in the Supply Chain & Freight reporting segment.

In assessing our goodwill for impairment, we initially evaluate qualitative factors to determine if it is more likely than not 

that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount. If the qualitative assessment is not conclusive and it is 
necessary to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit, then we utilize a two-step process to test goodwill for impairment. First, 
a comparison of the fair value of the applicable reporting unit with the aggregate carrying value, including goodwill, is 
performed. We primarily determine the fair value of our reporting units using a discounted cash flow model, and supplement 
this with observable valuation multiples for comparable companies, as applicable. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit 
exceeds the reporting unit’s fair value, we perform the second step of the goodwill impairment test to determine the amount of 
impairment loss. The second step includes comparing the implied fair value of the affected reporting unit’s goodwill with the 
carrying value of that goodwill.

In 2016, we utilized a qualitative assessment to determine that it was more likely than not that the reporting unit fair value 

exceeded the carrying value for our Europe, Asia, Americas, ISMEA, The UPS Store and UPS Capital reporting units. For the 
remaining reporting units owned at the annual goodwill impairment testing date, we utilized the two-step process to test 
goodwill for impairment. We did not have any goodwill impairment charges in 2016, 2015 or 2014. Cumulatively, our Supply 
Chain & Freight reporting segment has recorded $622 million of goodwill impairment charges, while our International and U.S. 
Domestic Package segments have not recorded any goodwill impairment charges.

96

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Intangible Assets

The following is a summary of intangible assets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions):

December 31, 2016

Capitalized software
Licenses
Franchise rights
Customer relationships
Trade name
Trademarks, patents and other
Total Intangible Assets, Net

December 31, 2015

Capitalized software
Licenses
Franchise rights
Customer relationships
Trade name
Trademarks, patents and other
Total Intangible Assets, Net

Weighted-
Average
Amortization
Period
(in years)

5.0
4.1
20.0
10.8
NA
6.9
6.5

Gross Carrying
Amount

Accumulated
Amortization

Net Carrying
Value

$

$

$

$

2,933
131
128
724
200
67
4,183

2,739
189
125
511
200
61
3,825

$

$

$

$

(2,157) $
(70)
(90)
(85)
—
(23)
(2,425) $

(2,026) $
(116)
(83)
(35)
—
(16)
(2,276) $

776
61
38
639
200
44
1,758

713
73
42
476
200
45
1,549

A trade name and licenses with a carrying value of $200 and $4 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2016 are 
deemed to be indefinite-lived intangible assets, and therefore are not amortized. Impairment tests for indefinite-lived intangible 
assets are performed on an annual basis. All of our other recorded intangible assets are deemed to be finite-lived intangibles, 
and are thus amortized over their estimated useful lives. Impairment tests for these intangible assets are only performed when a 
triggering event occurs that may indicate that the carrying value of the intangible may not be recoverable. There were no 
impairments of any finite-lived or indefinite-lived intangible assets in 2016 or 2015. 

Amortization of intangible assets was $321, $261 and $195 million during 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Expected 

amortization of finite-lived intangible assets recorded as of December 31, 2016 for the next five years is as follows (in 
millions): 2017—$378; 2018—$304; 2019—$249; 2020—$186; 2021—$126. Amortization expense in future periods will be 
affected by business acquisitions, software development, licensing agreements, franchise rights purchases and other factors.

97

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 7. BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS

In December 2016, we acquired Marken, a global provider of supply chain solutions to the life sciences industry and 

leader in clinical trials material storage and distribution, which was added to our Supply Chain & Freight reporting segment. 
The financial results of the acquired business were not material to our results of operations. 

The estimates of fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are subject to change based on completion of our 

purchase accounting. The purchase price allocation for acquired companies can be modified for up to one year from the date of 
acquisition. The acquisition was funded using cash from operations. 

The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the Marken assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the 

acquisition date (in millions): 

Marken Assets Acquired and (Liabilities) Assumed

Cash and cash equivalents

Accounts receivable

Other current assets

Deferred tax assets
Property, plant, and equipment

Goodwill

Intangible assets

Accounts payable and other current liabilities

Deferred tax liability

    Total purchase price

$

$

26

36

3

4
7

359

233
(31)
(67)
570

The goodwill recognized of approximately $359 million is attributable to expected synergies from future growth of 

Marken. None of the goodwill is deductible for income tax purposes.

The intangible assets acquired of approximately $233 million primarily consist of $216 million of customer 
relationships (amortized over 12 years), $10 million of trade name (amortized over 3 years), $6 million capitalized software 
(amortized over 3-5 years) and $1 million agent network (amortized over 4 years).  The carrying value of accounts receivable 
approximates fair value. 

We recognized approximately $8 million of acquisition related costs that were expensed in 2016. These costs are 

included in "other expenses" within the statements of consolidated income.

In March 2015, we acquired Poltraf, a Polish-based pharmaceutical logistics company recognized for its temperature-

sensitive warehousing and transportation solutions. In May 2015 and June 2015, we acquired Parcel Pro and IPS, respectively. 
These businesses provide services and insurance coverage for the transport of high value luxury goods. These acquisitions were 
funded with cash from operations. These acquisitions were not material to our consolidated balance sheets.

98

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In August 2015, we acquired Coyote, a U.S.-based truckload freight brokerage company for $1.829 billion. This 
acquisition allows us to expand our existing portfolio by adding large scale truckload freight brokerage and transportation 
management services to our Supply Chain & Freight reporting segment. In addition, we benefit from synergies in purchased 
transportation, backhaul utilization, cross-selling to customers, as well as technology systems and industry best practices. The 
acquisition was funded using cash from operations and issuances of commercial paper.

The following table summarizes the fair values of the Coyote assets acquired and liabilities assumed at the acquisition 

date (in millions): 

Coyote Assets Acquired and (Liabilities) Assumed

Cash and cash equivalents

Accounts receivable

Other current assets

Property, plant, and equipment

Goodwill
Intangible assets

Other non-current assets
Accounts payable and other current liabilities

Other non-current liabilities
Deferred tax liability

    Total purchase price

$

$

18

249

1

17

1,241
664

2
(132)
(11)
(212)
1,837

The goodwill recognized of approximately $1.241 billion is attributable to synergies anticipated from more efficient 

usage of our existing transportation networks and the assembled workforce of Coyote. We have allocated $709 and $532 
million of the recognized goodwill to the U.S. Domestic Package and Supply Chain & Freight segments, respectively. None of 
the goodwill is deductible for income tax purposes.

The intangible assets acquired of approximately $664 million primarily consist of $426 million of customer relationships 
(amortized over 10 years), $27 million of non-compete agreements (amortized over 4 years), and $200 million of trade name, 
which has an indefinite useful life. The carrying value of acquired accounts receivable approximated fair value.

We recognized approximately $17 million of acquisition related costs that were expensed in 2015. These costs are 

included in "other expenses" within the statements of consolidated income.  

99

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 8. DEBT AND FINANCING ARRANGEMENTS

The following table sets forth the principal amount, maturity or range of maturities, as well as the carrying value of our 

debt obligations, as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions).  The carrying value of these debt obligations can differ from 
the principal amount due to the impact of unamortized discounts or premiums and valuation adjustments resulting from interest 
rate swap hedging relationships.

Commercial paper
Fixed-rate senior notes:
1.125% senior notes
5.50% senior notes
5.125% senior notes
3.125% senior notes
2.45% senior notes
2.40% senior notes
6.20% senior notes
4.875% senior notes
3.625% senior notes
3.40% senior notes

8.375% Debentures:

8.375% debentures
8.375% debentures
Pound Sterling Notes:
     5.50% notes
     5.125% notes
Euro Senior Notes:
1.625% notes
1.000% notes
Floating rate senior notes

Floating rate senior notes
Capital lease obligations
Facility notes and bonds
Other debt
Total debt
Less: current maturities
Long-term debt

Principal

Amount

$

3,250

Maturity
2017

Carrying Value

2016

2015

$

3,250

$

2,965

375
750
1,000
1,500
1,000
500
1,500
500
375
500

424
276

82
560

2017
2018
2019
2021
2022
2026
2038
2040
2042
2046

2020
2030

2031
2050

374
769
1,043
1,584
986
497
1,481
489
367
491

461
282

76
535

372
787
1,064
1,613
991
—
1,481
489
367
—

474
282

92
638

738
527
527
833
447
320
20
$ 16,004

2025
2028
2020
2049 – 2066
2017– 3005
2029 – 2045
2017 – 2022

732
523
525
824
447
319
20
16,075
(3,681)
$ 12,394

759
—
544
600
475
319
22
14,334
(3,018)
$ 11,316

100

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Debt Issuances

On October 19, 2016, we issued U.S. and Euro senior rate notes in two separate transactions. These senior notes 

consist of three separate series, as follows: 

•  Two series of notes, each in the principal amount of $500 million, were issued.  These notes bear interest at 2.4% and 
3.4% fixed rates and are due November 2026 and November 2046, respectively.  Interest on these notes is payable 
semi-annually, in each case beginning in May 2017. Each note is callable at our option at a redemption price equal to 
the greater of 100% of the principal amount, or the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of 
principal and interest thereon discounted to the redemption date at a benchmark treasury yield plus 10 and 15 basis 
points, respectively, and accrued interest. 

•  Notes in the principal amount of €500 million ($549 million) were issued.  These notes bear interest at a 1.0% fixed 
rate and are due November 2028.  Interest on these notes is payable annually, beginning in November 2017. The 
notes are callable at our option at a redemption price equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount, or the sum 
of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest thereon discounted to the date of 
redemption at a benchmark comparable German government bond yield plus 15 basis points and accrued interest. 

Commercial Paper

We are authorized to borrow up to $10.0 billion under a U.S. commercial paper program and €5.0 billion (in a variety of 
currencies) under a European commercial paper program. We had the following amounts outstanding under these programs as 
of December 31, 2016: $2.406 billion with an average interest rate of 0.49% and €801 million ($844 million) with an average 
interest rate of -0.36%.  The amount of commercial paper outstanding under these programs in 2017 is expected to fluctuate. 

Fixed Rate Senior Notes

We have completed several offerings of fixed rate senior notes.  All of the notes pay interest semiannually, and allow for 

redemption of the notes by UPS at any time by paying the greater of the principal amount or a “make-whole” amount, plus 
accrued interest.  We subsequently entered into interest rate swaps on several of these notes, which effectively converted the 
fixed interest rates on the notes to variable LIBOR-based interest rates. The average interest rate payable on these notes, 
including the impact of the interest rate swaps, for 2016 and 2015, respectively, were as follows:

1.125% senior notes
5.50% senior notes
5.125% senior notes
3.125% senior notes
2.45% senior notes

Principal

Value

375
750
1,000
1,500
1,000

$
$
$
$
$

Maturity
2017
2018
2019
2021
2022

Average Effective
Interest Rate

2016
1.04%
2.94%
2.49%
1.40%
1.26%

2015
0.68%
2.54%
2.06%
1.04%
0.87%

101

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

8.375% Debentures

The 8.375% debentures consist of two separate tranches, as follows:

• 

$276 million of the debentures have a maturity of April 1, 2030. These debentures have an 8.375% interest rate until 
April 1, 2020, and, thereafter, the interest rate will be 7.62% for the final 10 years. These debentures are redeemable in 
whole or in part at our option at any time. The redemption price is equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount 
and accrued interest, or the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payout of principal and interest 
thereon discounted to the date of redemption (at a benchmark treasury yield plus five basis points) plus accrued 
interest. 

• 

$424 million of the debentures have a maturity of April 1, 2020.  These debentures are not subject to redemption prior 
to maturity. 

Interest is payable semiannually in April and October for both tranches and neither tranche is subject to sinking fund 

requirements. We subsequently entered into interest rate swaps on the 2020 debentures, which effectively converted the fixed 
interest rates on the debentures to variable LIBOR-based interest rates. The average interest rate payable on the 2020 
debentures, including the impact of the interest rate swaps, for 2016 and 2015 was 5.43% and 5.04%, respectively.

Floating Rate Senior Notes

The floating rate senior notes bear interest at either one or three-month LIBOR, less a spread ranging from 30 to 45 basis 

points. The average interest rate for 2016 and 2015 was 0.21% and 0.01%, respectively. These notes are callable at various 
times after 30 years at a stated percentage of par value, and putable by the note holders at various times after 10 years at a stated 
percentage of par value. The notes have maturities ranging from 2049 through 2066. 

In March, June and August 2016, we issued floating rate senior notes in principal balances of $118, $74 and $35 million, 

respectively. These notes bear interest at three-month LIBOR less 30 basis points and mature in 2066. 

Capital Lease Obligations

We have certain property, plant and equipment subject to capital leases. Some of the obligations associated with these 
capital leases have been legally defeased. The recorded value of our property, plant and equipment subject to capital leases is as 
follows as of December 31 (in millions): 

Vehicles
Aircraft
Buildings
Accumulated amortization
Property, plant and equipment subject to capital leases

2016

2015

68
2,291
190
(896)
1,653

$

$

74
2,289
207
(849)
1,721

$

$

These capital lease obligations have principal payments due at various dates from 2017 through 3005.

102

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Facility Notes and Bonds

We have entered into agreements with certain municipalities to finance the construction of, or improvements to, facilities 

that support our U.S. Domestic Package and Supply Chain & Freight operations in the United States. These facilities are 
located around airport properties in Louisville, Kentucky; Dallas, Texas; and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Under these 
arrangements, we enter into a lease or loan agreement that covers the debt service obligations on the bonds issued by the 
municipalities, as follows:

•  Bonds with a principal balance of $149 million issued by the Louisville Regional Airport Authority associated with our 
Worldport facility in Louisville, Kentucky. The bonds, which are due in January 2029, bear interest at a variable rate, 
and the average interest rates for 2016 and 2015 were 0.37% and 0.03%, respectively.

•  Bonds with a principal balance of $42 million and due in November 2036 issued by the Louisville Regional Airport 

Authority associated with our air freight facility in Louisville, Kentucky. The bonds bear interest at a variable rate, and 
the average interest rates for 2016 and 2015 were 0.36% and 0.02%, respectively.

•  Bonds with a principal balance of $29 million issued by the Dallas / Fort Worth International Airport Facility 

Improvement Corporation associated with our Dallas, Texas airport facilities. The bonds are due in May 2032 and bear 
interest at a variable rate, however the variable cash flows on the obligation have been swapped to a fixed 5.11%.

•  Bonds with a principal balance of $100 million issued by the Delaware County, Pennsylvania Industrial Development 

Authority associated with our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania airport facilities. The bonds, which were due in December 
2015, had a variable interest rate, and the average interest rates for 2016 and 2015 were 0.00% and 0.02%, 
respectively. As of December 2015, these $100 million bonds were repaid in full. 

• 

In September 2015, we entered into an agreement with the Delaware County, Pennsylvania Industrial Development 
Authority, associated with our Philadelphia, Pennsylvania airport facilities, for bonds issued with a principal balance 
of $100 million. These bonds, which are due September 2045, bear interest at a variable rate. The average interest rate 
for 2016 and 2015 was 0.40% and  0.00%, respectively. 

Pound Sterling Notes

The Pound Sterling notes consist of two separate tranches, as follows:

•  Notes with a principal amount of £66 million accrue interest at a 5.50% fixed rate, and are due in February 2031.  

These notes are not callable.  

•  Notes with a principal amount of £455 million accrue interest at a 5.125% fixed rate, and are due in February 2050.  
These notes are callable at our option at a redemption price equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount and 
accrued interest, or the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payout of principal and interest thereon 
discounted to the date of redemption at a benchmark U.K. government bond yield plus 15 basis points and accrued 
interest.  

Euro Senior Notes

The euro senior notes consist of two separate issuances, as follows:

•  Notes with a principal amount of €500 million accrue interest at a variable rate equal to three-month EURIBOR plus 

43 basis points and are due in July 2020. Interest is payable quarterly on the notes, commencing in April 2016. These 
notes are not callable. The senior notes bear interest at a variable rate, and the average interest rates for 2016 and 2015 
were 0.19% and 0.34%, respectively.

•  Notes with a principal amount of €700 million accrue interest at a 1.625% fixed rate and are due in November 2025. 

Interest is payable annually on the notes, commencing in November 2016. These notes are callable at our option at a 
redemption price equal to the greater of 100% of the principal amount, or the sum of the present values of the 
remaining scheduled payout of principal and interest thereon discounted to the date of redemption at a benchmark 
German government bond yield plus 20 basis points and accrued interest.

Contractual Commitments

We lease certain aircraft, facilities, land, equipment and vehicles under operating leases, which expire at various dates 
through 2038. Certain of the leases contain escalation clauses and renewal or purchase options. Rent expense related to our 
operating leases was $686, $669 and $676 million for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. 

103

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table sets forth the aggregate minimum lease payments under capital and operating leases, the aggregate 

annual principal payments due under our long-term debt and the aggregate amounts expected to be spent for purchase 
commitments (in millions).

Year
2017
2018
2019
2020
2021
After 2021
Total
Less: imputed interest
Present value of minimum capitalized lease payments
Less: current portion
Long-term capitalized lease obligations

Capital
Leases

Operating
Leases

Debt
Principal

Purchase
Commitments

368
302
221
168
111
300
1,470

$

$

3,635
756
1,001
528
1,501
8,136
15,557

$

$

1,358
1,151
758
286
17
45
3,615

$

$

$

$

72
70
62
56
39
370
669
(222)
447
(46)
401

As of December 31, 2016, we had outstanding letters of credit totaling approximately $1.890 billion issued in connection 
with our self-insurance reserves and other routine business requirements. We also issue surety bonds as an alternative to letters 
of credit in certain instances, and as of December 31, 2016, we had $730 million of surety bonds written.

Available Credit

We maintain two credit agreements with a consortium of banks. One of these agreements provides revolving credit 

facilities of $1.5 billion, and expires on March 24, 2017. Generally, amounts outstanding under this facility bear interest at a 
periodic fixed rate equal to LIBOR for the applicable interest period and currency denomination, plus an applicable margin. 
Alternatively, a fluctuating rate of interest equal to the highest of (1) JPMorgan Chase Bank’s publicly announced prime rate, 
(2) the Federal Funds effective rate plus 0.50%, and (3) LIBOR for a one month interest period plus 1.00%, plus an applicable 
margin, may be used at our discretion.  In each case, the applicable margin for advances bearing interest based on LIBOR is a 
percentage determined by quotations from Markit Group Ltd. for our 1-year credit default swap spread, subject to a minimum 
rate of 0.10% and a maximum rate of 0.75%. The applicable margin for advances bearing interest based on the prime rate is 
1.00% below the applicable margin for LIBOR advances (but not lower than 0.00%). We are also able to request advances 
under this facility based on competitive bids for the applicable interest rate. There were no amounts outstanding under this 
facility as of December 31, 2016.

The second agreement provides revolving credit facilities of $3.0 billion, and expires on March 21, 2021. Generally, 

amounts outstanding under this facility bear interest at a periodic fixed rate equal to LIBOR for the applicable interest period 
and currency denomination, plus an applicable margin. Alternatively, a fluctuating rate of interest equal to the highest of (1) 
JPMorgan Chase Bank’s publicly announced prime rate, (2) the Federal Funds effective rate plus 0.50%, and (3) LIBOR for a 
one month interest period plus 1.00%, plus an applicable margin, may be used at our discretion.  In each case, the applicable 
margin for advances bearing interest based on LIBOR is a percentage determined by quotations from Markit Group Ltd. for our 
1-year credit default swap spread, interpolated for a period from the date of determination of such credit default swap spread in 
connection with a new interest period until the latest maturity date of this facility then in effect (but not less than a period of one 
year). The minimum applicable margin rate is 0.10% and the maximum applicable margin rate is 0.75% per annum. The 
applicable margin for advances bearing interest based on the prime rate is 1.00% below the applicable margin for LIBOR 
advances (but not less than 0.00%). We are also able to request advances under this facility based on competitive bids. There 
were no amounts outstanding under this facility as of December 31, 2016.

104

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Debt Covenants

Our existing debt instruments and credit facilities subject us to certain financial covenants. As of December 31, 2016 and 

for all prior periods presented, we have satisfied these financial covenants. These covenants limit the amount of secured 
indebtedness that we may incur, and limit the amount of attributable debt in sale-leaseback transactions, to 10% of net tangible 
assets. As of December 31, 2016, 10% of net tangible assets is equivalent to $2.313 billion; however, we have no covered sale-
leaseback transactions or secured indebtedness outstanding. We do not expect these covenants to have a material impact on our 
financial condition or liquidity.

Fair Value of Debt

Based on the borrowing rates currently available to the Company for long-term debt with similar terms and maturities, the 

fair value of long-term debt, including current maturities, is approximately $17.134 and $15.524 billion as of December 31, 
2016 and 2015, respectively.  We utilized Level 2 inputs in the fair value hierarchy of valuation techniques to determine the fair 
value of all of our debt instruments.

NOTE 9. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AND CONTINGENCIES

We are involved in a number of judicial proceedings and other matters arising from the conduct of our business activities.

Although there can be no assurance as to the ultimate outcome, we have generally denied, or believe we have a 

meritorious defense and will deny, liability in all litigation pending against us, including (except as otherwise noted herein) the 
matters described below, and we intend to defend vigorously each case. We have accrued for legal claims when, and to the 
extent that, amounts associated with the claims become probable and can be reasonably estimated. The actual costs of resolving 
legal claims may be substantially higher or lower than the amounts accrued for those claims.

For those matters as to which we are not able to estimate a possible loss or range of loss, we are not able to determine 
whether the loss will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations or liquidity. For 
matters in this category, we have indicated in the descriptions that follow the reasons that we are unable to estimate the possible 
loss or range of loss. 

Judicial Proceedings 

We are a defendant in a number of lawsuits filed in state and federal courts containing various class action allegations 

under state wage-and-hour laws. At this time, we do not believe that any loss associated with these matters would have a 
material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. 

UPS and our subsidiary The UPS Store, Inc., are defendants in Morgate v. The UPS Store, Inc. et al., an action in the Los 

Angeles Superior Court brought on behalf of a certified class of all franchisees who chose to rebrand their Mail Boxes Etc. 
franchises to The UPS Store in March 2003. Plaintiff alleges that UPS and The UPS Store, Inc. misrepresented and omitted 
facts to the class about the market tests that were conducted before offering the class the choice of whether to rebrand to The 
UPS Store. Trial is scheduled for mid-2017.

105

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

There are multiple factors that prevent us from being able to estimate the amount of loss, if any, that may result from the 

remaining aspects of this case, including: (1) we are vigorously defending ourselves and believe we have a number of 
meritorious legal defenses; and (2) it remains uncertain what evidence of damages, if any, plaintiffs will be able to present. 
Accordingly, at this time, we are not able to estimate a possible loss or range of loss that may result from this matter or to 
determine whether such loss, if any, would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or 
liquidity. 

In AFMS LLC v. UPS and FedEx Corporation, a lawsuit filed in federal court in the Central District of California in 
August 2010, the plaintiff asserts that UPS and FedEx violated U.S. antitrust law by conspiring to refuse to negotiate with third-
party negotiators retained by shippers and by individually imposing policies that prevent shippers from using such negotiators. 
The Court granted summary judgment motions filed by UPS and FedEx, entered judgment in favor of UPS and FedEx, and 
dismissed the case. Plaintiff appealed to the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, briefing is complete and oral argument has 
been scheduled for March 2017. The Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice (“DOJ”) opened a civil investigation 
of our policies and practices for dealing with third-party negotiators. We have cooperated with this investigation. We deny any 
liability with respect to these matters and intend to vigorously defend ourselves. There are multiple factors that prevent us from 
being able to estimate the amount of loss, if any, that may result from these matters including: (1) the DOJ investigation is 
pending; (2) the Court granted our motion for summary judgment; and (3) the appeal remains pending. Accordingly, at this 
time, we are not able to estimate a possible loss or range of loss that may result from these matters or to determine whether such 
loss, if any, would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

We are a defendant in Ryan Wright and Julia Zislin v. United Parcel Service Canada Ltd., an action brought on behalf of 
a certified class of customers in the Superior Court of Justice in Ontario, Canada. Plaintiffs filed suit in February 2007, alleging 
inadequate disclosure concerning the existence and cost of brokerage services provided by us under applicable provincial 
consumer protection legislation and infringement of interest restriction provisions under the Criminal Code of Canada. Partial 
summary judgment was granted to us and the plaintiffs by the Ontario motions court in August 2011, when it dismissed 
plaintiffs' complaint under the Criminal Code and granted plaintiffs' complaint of inadequate disclosure. We appealed the 
Court's decision pertaining to inadequate disclosure in September 2011 and continue to vigorously defend all other allegations. 
There are multiple factors that prevent us from being able to estimate the amount of loss, if any, that may result from this 
matter, including: (1) we are vigorously defending ourselves and believe that we have a number of meritorious legal defenses; 
and (2) there are unresolved questions of law and fact that could be important to the ultimate resolution of this matter. 
Accordingly, at this time, we are not able to estimate a possible loss or range of loss that may result from this matter or to 
determine whether such loss, if any, would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or 
liquidity. 

In February 2015, the State and City of New York filed suit against UPS in the U.S. District Court for the Southern 
District of New York, arising from alleged shipments of cigarettes to New York State and City residents. The complaint asserts 
claims under various federal and state laws.  The complaint also includes a claim that UPS violated the Assurance of 
Discontinuance it entered into with the New York Attorney General in 2005 concerning cigarette deliveries. Trial was held in 
September 2016, and closing arguments were held in November 2016. There are multiple factors that prevent us from being 
able to estimate the amount of loss, if any, that may result from this case, including: (1) we are vigorously defending ourselves 
and believe we have a number of meritorious factual and legal defenses; and (2) it remains uncertain how the Court will resolve 
the State and City’s various claims and our defenses. Accordingly, at this time, we are not able to estimate a possible loss or 
range of loss that may result from this matter or to determine whether such loss, if any, would have a material adverse effect on 
our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

In May 2016, a purported shareowner derivative suit was filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery naming certain of 

UPS’s current and former officers and directors as defendants, alleging that they breached their fiduciary duties by failing to 
monitor UPS’s compliance with the Assurance of Discontinuance and other federal and state laws relating to cigarette 
deliveries. The Company’s and individual defendants’ motion to dismiss was heard in October 2016. On January 19, 2017, the 
Court of Chancery dismissed the plaintiffs' suit in its entirety. 

We are a defendant in various other lawsuits that arose in the normal course of business. We do not believe that the 
eventual resolution of these other lawsuits (either individually or in the aggregate), including any reasonably possible losses in 
excess of current accruals, will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

106

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Other Matters 

In August 2010, competition authorities in Brazil opened an administrative proceeding to investigate alleged 

anticompetitive behavior in the freight forwarding industry. Approximately 45 freight forwarding companies and individuals are 
named in the proceeding, including UPS, UPS SCS Transportes (Brasil) S.A., and a former employee in Brazil. UPS submitted 
its written defenses to these allegations in April 2014. These allegations have been settled for an immaterial amount. 

NOTE 10. SHAREOWNERS’ EQUITY

Capital Stock, Additional Paid-In Capital, and Retained Earnings

We maintain two classes of common stock, which are distinguished from each other by their respective voting rights. 

Class A shares of UPS are entitled to 10 votes per share, whereas class B shares are entitled to one vote per share. Class A 
shares are primarily held by UPS employees and retirees, as well as trusts and descendants of the Company’s founders, and 
these shares are fully convertible into class B shares at any time. Class B shares are publicly traded on the New York Stock 
Exchange (“NYSE”) under the symbol “UPS”.  Class A and B shares both have a $0.01 par value, and as of December 31, 
2016, there were 4.6 billion class A shares and 5.6 billion class B shares authorized to be issued. Additionally, there are 
200 million preferred shares authorized to be issued, with a par value of $0.01 per share; as of December 31, 2016, no preferred 
shares had been issued.

The following is a rollforward of our common stock, additional paid-in capital, and retained earnings accounts (in 

millions, except per share amounts):

2016

2015

2014

Shares

Dollars

Shares

Dollars

Shares

Dollars

Class A Common Stock:

Balance at beginning of year
Common stock purchases
Stock award plans
Common stock issuances
Conversions of class A to class B common stock
Class A shares issued at end of year

Class B Common Stock:

Balance at beginning of year
Common stock purchases
Conversions of class A to class B common stock
Class B shares issued at end of year

194
(4)
5
2
(17)
180

693
(21)
17
689

Additional Paid-In Capital:

Balance at beginning of year
Stock award plans
Common stock purchases
Common stock issuances
Option premiums received (paid)
Balance at end of year

Retained Earnings:

Balance at beginning of year
Net income attributable to controlling interests
Dividends ($3.12, $2.92 and $2.68 per share)
Common stock purchases
Balance at end of year

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2
—
—
—
—
2

7
—
—
7

—
541
(898)
303
54
—

6,001
3,431
(2,771)
(1,782)
4,879

201
(4)
5
3
(11)
194

705
(23)
11
693

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2
—
—
—
—
2

7
—
—
7

—
492
(791)
316
(17)
—

5,726
4,844
(2,649)
(1,920)
6,001

212
(5)
5
3
(14)
201

712
(21)
14
705

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

2
—
—
—
—
2

7
—
—
7

—
656
(918)
309
(47)
—

6,925
3,032
(2,487)
(1,744)
5,726

107

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we repurchased a total of 25.2, 26.8 and 26.4 million shares of 

class A and class B common stock for $2.680, $2.711 and $2.662 billion, respectively ($2.678, $2.702 and $2.695 billion in 
repurchases for 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, are reported on the cash flow statement due to the timing of settlements).  
During the first quarter of 2016, we also exercised a capped call option that we entered in 2015 for which we received 0.2 
million UPS class B shares. The $25 million premium payment for this capped call option reduced shareowners' equity in 2015. 
In total, shares repurchased and received the twelve months ended December 31, 2016 were 25.4 million shares for $2.705 
billion. In May 2016, the Board of Directors approved a new share repurchase authorization of $8.0 billion, which replaced an 
authorization previously announced in 2013.   This new share repurchase authorization has no expiration date.  As of 
December 31, 2016, we had $6.155 billion of this share repurchase authorization remaining.    

From time to time, we enter into share repurchase programs with large financial institutions to assist in our buyback of 
company stock. These programs allow us to repurchase our shares at a price below the weighted average UPS share price for a 
given period. During the fourth quarter of 2016, we entered into an accelerated share repurchase program, which allowed us to 
repurchase $300 million of shares (2.6 million shares). The program was completed in December 2016.

In order to lower the average cost of acquiring shares in our ongoing share repurchase program, we periodically enter into 

structured repurchase agreements involving the use of capped call options for the purchase of UPS class B shares. We pay a 
fixed sum of cash upon execution of each agreement in exchange for the right to receive either a pre-determined amount of cash 
or stock. Upon expiration of each agreement, if the closing market price of our common stock is above the pre-determined 
price, we will have our initial investment returned with a premium in either cash or shares (at our election). If the closing 
market price of our common stock is at or below the pre-determined price, we will receive the number of shares specified in the 
agreement. We received (paid) net premiums of $54 and $(17) million during 2016 and 2015, respectively, related to entering 
into and settling capped call options for the purchase of class B shares. As of  December 31, 2016, we had outstanding options 
for the purchase of 1.0 million shares with an average strike price of $97.27 per share that will settle in the first quarter of 2017.

108

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

We incur activity in AOCI for unrealized holding gains and losses on available-for-sale securities, foreign currency 

translation adjustments, unrealized gains and losses from derivatives that qualify as hedges of cash flows and unrecognized 
pension and postretirement benefit costs. The activity in AOCI is as follows (in millions):

Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss):

Balance at beginning of year
Translation adjustment (net of tax effect of $32, $0, and $105)
Balance at end of year

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Marketable Securities, Net of Tax:

Balance at beginning of year
Current period changes in fair value (net of tax effect of $0, $(1), and $1)
Reclassification to earnings (no tax impact in any period)
Balance at end of year

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedges, Net of Tax:

Balance at beginning of year
Current period changes in fair value (net of tax effect of $75, $103, and $133)
Reclassification to earnings (net of tax effect of $(142), $(99), and $35)
Balance at end of year

Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs, Net of Tax:

Balance at beginning of year
Reclassification to earnings (net of tax effect of $1,040, $97, and $870)
Net actuarial gain (loss) and prior service cost resulting from remeasurements of
plan assets and liabilities (net of tax effect of $(1,460), $197, and $(2,714))
Balance at end of year

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at end of year

2016

2015

2014

$

(897) $
(119)
(1,016)

(457) $
(440)
(897)

(126)
(331)
(457)

(1)
—
—
(1)

67
124
(236)
(45)

—
(1)
—
(1)

61
171
(165)
67

(2,709)
1,783

(3,198)
195

(2,495)
(3,421)
(4,483) $

294
(2,709)
(3,540) $

$

(1)
2
(1)
—

(219)
220
60
61

(114)
1,462

(4,546)
(3,198)
(3,594)

109

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Detail of the gains (losses) reclassified from AOCI to the statements of consolidated income for the years ended  

December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 is as follows (in millions):

2016 Amount
Reclassified
from AOCI

2015 Amount
Reclassified
from AOCI

2014 Amount
Reclassified
from AOCI

Affected Line Item in the Income
Statement

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Marketable Securities:

Realized gain (loss) on sale of securities

Income tax (expense) benefit
Impact on net income

Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedges:

Interest rate contracts

Foreign exchange contracts

Foreign exchange contracts

Income tax (expense) benefit

Impact on net income

—

—

—

(26)
—

404
(142)
236

Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs:

Prior service costs

Curtailment and settlement loss

Remeasurement of benefit obligation
Income tax (expense) benefit

Impact on net income

(172)
—
(2,651)
1,040
(1,783)

—

—

—

(24)
(25)
313
(99)
165

(174)
—
(118)
97
(195)

1

—

1

(23)
(48)
(24)
35
(60)

Investment income

Income tax expense

Net income

Interest expense

Interest expense

Revenue

Income tax expense

Net income

(170) Compensation and benefits
(356) Compensation and benefits
(1,806) Compensation and benefits

870
(1,462)

Income tax expense

Net income

Total amount reclassified for the period

$

(1,547) $

(30) $

(1,521)

Net income

110

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Deferred Compensation Obligations and Treasury Stock

We maintain a deferred compensation plan whereby certain employees were previously able to elect to defer the gains on 

stock option exercises by deferring the shares received upon exercise into a rabbi trust. The shares held in this trust are 
classified as treasury stock, and the liability to participating employees is classified as “deferred compensation obligations” in 
the shareowners’ equity section of the consolidated balance sheets. The number of shares needed to settle the liability for 
deferred compensation obligations is included in the denominator in both the basic and diluted earnings per share calculations. 
Employees are generally no longer able to defer the gains from stock options exercised subsequent to December 31, 2004. 

Activity in the deferred compensation program for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 is as follows (in 

millions):

Deferred Compensation Obligations:

Balance at beginning of year
Reinvested dividends
Options exercise deferrals
Benefit payments
Balance at end of year

Treasury Stock:

Balance at beginning of year
Reinvested dividends
Options exercise deferrals
Benefit payments
Balance at end of year

Noncontrolling Interests

2016

2015

2014

Shares

Dollars

Shares

Dollars

Shares

Dollars

$

$

(1) $
—
—
—
(1) $

51
3
—
(9)
45

(51)
(3)
—
9
(45)

$

$

(1) $
—
—
—
(1) $

59
3
—
(11)
51

(59)
(3)
—
11
(51)

$

$

(1) $
—
—
—
(1) $

69
2
—
(12)
59

(69)
(2)
—
12
(59)

We have noncontrolling interests in certain consolidated subsidiaries in our International Package and Supply Chain & 

Freight segments. Noncontrolling interests increased $3 and $4 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, 
respectively.

NOTE 11. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

The UPS Incentive Compensation Plan permits the grant of non-qualified and incentive stock options, stock appreciation 
rights, restricted stock and stock units, and restricted performance shares and units to eligible employees. The number of shares 
reserved for issuance under the Incentive Compensation Plan is 27 million. Each share issued pursuant to restricted stock units 
and restricted performance units (collectively referred to as "Restricted Units"), stock options and other permitted awards will 
reduce the share reserve by one share. We had 17 million shares available to be issued under the Incentive Compensation Plan 
as of December 31, 2016.

The primary compensation programs offered under the UPS Incentive Compensation Plan include the UPS Management 
Incentive Award program, the Coyote Restricted Stock Award, the UPS Long-Term Incentive Performance Award program and 
the UPS Stock Option program. These awards are discussed in the following paragraphs. The total expense recognized in our 
income statement under all stock compensation award programs was $591, $574 and $536 million during 2016, 2015 and 2014, 
respectively.  The associated income tax benefit recognized in our income statement was $219, $215 and $199 million during 
2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The cash income tax benefit received from the exercise of stock options and the lapsing of 
Restricted Units was $207, $252 and $261 million during 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. 

111

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Management Incentive Award Program ("MIP")

Non-executive management earning the right to receive the Management Incentive Award are determined annually by the 

Salary Committee, which is comprised of executive officers of UPS. Awards granted to executive officers are determined 
annually by the Compensation Committee of the UPS Board of Directors. Our Management Incentive Award program provides, 
with certain exceptions, that one-half to two-thirds of the annual Management Incentive Award will be made in Restricted Units 
(depending upon the level of management involved). The other one-third to one-half of the award is electable in the form of 
cash or unrestricted shares of class A common stock, and is fully vested at the time of grant.

Upon vesting, Restricted Units result in the issuance of the equivalent number of UPS class A common shares after 
required tax withholdings. Except in the case of death, disability, or retirement, Restricted Units granted for our Management 
Incentive Award generally vest over a five-year period with approximately 20% of the award vesting at each anniversary date of 
the grant. The entire grant is expensed on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period. All Restricted Units granted are 
subject to earlier cancellation or vesting under certain conditions. Dividends earned on Restricted Units are reinvested in 
additional Restricted Units at each dividend payable date.

Coyote Restricted Stock Award

In August 2015 we acquired Coyote, a U.S.-based truckload freight brokerage company. During the third quarter of 

2015, we granted Restricted Units to certain eligible Coyote management employees. The vesting of Restricted Units granted 
under this award will vary between one and four years with an equal number of restricted units vesting at each anniversary date.  
The entire grant is expensed on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period (except in the case of death, disability or 
retirement, in which case immediate vesting occurs).

Long-Term Incentive Performance Award granted prior to 2014 

We award Restricted Units in conjunction with our Long-Term Incentive Performance Award program to certain eligible 

employees. The Restricted Units ultimately granted under the Long-Term Incentive Performance Award program were based 
upon the achievement of certain performance measures, including growth in consolidated revenue and operating return on 
invested capital during the performance award cycle, and other measures, including the achievement of an adjusted earnings per 
share target over the entire three-year performance award cycle. The last award granted under this program fully vested in the 
first quarter of 2016.

As of December 31, 2016, we had the following Restricted Units outstanding, including reinvested dividends, that were 

granted under our Management Incentive Award program, Coyote Restricted Stock Award and Long-Term Incentive 
Performance Award program (granted prior to 2014): 

Nonvested at January 1, 2016
Vested
Granted
Reinvested Dividends
Forfeited / Expired
Nonvested at December 31, 2016
Restricted Units Expected to Vest

Shares
(in thousands)
11,012
(5,180)
5,446
348
(151)
11,475
11,129

Weighted-Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

Weighted-Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)

Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (in millions)

$

$
$

90.71
87.79
97.04
N/A
95.23
94.32
94.33

1.42
1.41

$
$

1,315
1,276

The fair value of each Restricted Unit is the NYSE closing price of class B common stock on the date of grant. The 
weighted-average grant date fair value of Restricted Units granted during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $97.04, $100.63 and 
$92.35, respectively. The total fair value of Restricted Units vested was $445, $564 and $579 million in 2016, 2015 and 2014, 
respectively. As of December 31, 2016, there was $512 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested 
Restricted Units. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of three years and two months.

112

 
 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Long-Term Incentive Performance Award granted after 2013

We award Restricted Units in conjunction with our Long-Term Incentive Performance Award program to certain eligible 
employees. Beginning with the Long-Term Incentive Performance grant in 2014, the performance targets are equally-weighted 
among consolidated operating return on invested capital, growth in currency-constant consolidated revenue and total 
shareowner return relative ("RTSR") to a peer group of companies. The Restricted Units granted under this award generally 
vest at the end of a three-year period (except in the case of death disability or retirement, in which case immediate vesting 
occurs on a prorated basis). The number of Restricted Units earned will be based on the percentage achievement of the 
performance targets set forth on the grant date. The range of percentage achievement can vary from 0% to 200% of the target 
award.

For the two-thirds of the award related to consolidated operating return on invested capital and growth in currency-
constant consolidated revenue, we recognize the grant date fair value of these units (less estimated forfeitures) as compensation 
expense ratably over the vesting period, based on the number of awards expected to be earned. The remaining one-third of the 
award related to RTSR is valued using a Monte Carlo model. This portion of the award is recognized as compensation expense 
(less estimated forfeitures) ratably over the vesting period.  

The weighted-average assumptions used, by year, and the calculated weighted-average fair values of the RTSR portion of 

the grants, are as follows:

Risk-free interest rate
Expected volatility
Weighted-average fair value of units granted
Share payout

2016

2015

2014

$

1.00%
16.46%
136.18
129.08%

$

0.89%
15.53%
63.64
65.86%

$

0.65%
17.02%
106.52
109.84%

There is no expected dividend yield as units earn dividend equivalents.

As of December 31, 2016, we had the following Restricted Units outstanding, including reinvested dividends, that were 

granted under our Long-Term Incentive Performance Award program (granted after 2013): 

Nonvested at January 1, 2016
Vested
Granted
Reinvested Dividends
Forfeited / Expired
Nonvested at December 31, 2016
Performance Units Expected to Vest

Shares
(in thousands)
1,615
(800)
926
70
(128)
1,683
1,590

Weighted-Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

Weighted-Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)

Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (in millions)

$

$
$

96.80
97.02
105.50
N/A
99.70
101.36
101.44

1.53
1.56

$
$

193
182

The fair value of each Restricted Unit is the NYSE closing price of class B common stock on the date of grant. The 
weighted-average grant date fair value of Restricted Units granted during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $105.50, $96.64 and 
$96.98, respectively. The total fair value of Restricted Units vested was $13 and $5 million in 2016 and 2015, respectively. As 
of December 31, 2016, there was $92 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested Restricted Units. 
That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of one year and nine months.

Non-qualified Stock Options

We maintain fixed stock option plans, under which options are granted to purchase shares of UPS class A common stock. 
Stock options granted in connection with the UPS Incentive Compensation Plan must have an exercise price at least equal to the 
NYSE closing price of UPS class B common stock on the date the option is granted.

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UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Executive officers and certain senior managers receive a non-qualified stock option grant annually, in which the value 

granted is determined as a percentage of salary. Options granted generally vest over a five-year period with approximately 20% 
of the award vesting at each anniversary date of the grant. All options granted are subject to earlier cancellation or vesting under 
certain conditions. The options granted will expire ten years after the date of the grant. Option holders may exercise their 
options via the tender of cash or class A common stock and new class A shares are issued upon exercise. 

The following is an analysis of options to purchase shares of class A common stock issued and outstanding:

Shares
(in thousands)

Weighted-Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted-Average Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)

Aggregate Intrinsic
Value (in millions)

Outstanding at January 1, 2016
Exercised
Granted
Forfeited / Expired
Outstanding at December 31, 2016
Options Vested and Expected to Vest
Exercisable at December 31, 2016

2,771
(1,186)
259
(16)
1,828
1,828
1,410

$

$
$
$

77.33
77.63
100.92
80.88
80.45
80.45
75.07

4.26
4.26
3.01

$
$
$

62
62
56

The fair value of each option grant is estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. The weighted-average 

assumptions used, by year, and the calculated weighted-average fair values of options, are as follows:

Expected dividend yield
Risk-free interest rate
Expected life in years
Expected volatility
Weighted-average fair value of options granted

2016

2015

2014

2.95%
1.62%
7.5
22.40%
16.46

$

2.63%
2.07%
7.5
20.61%
18.07

$

2.56%
2.40%
7.5
24.26%
20.48

$

Expected volatilities are based on the historical returns on our stock and the implied volatility of our publicly-traded 
options. The expected dividend yield is based on the recent historical dividend yields for our stock, taking into account changes 
in dividend policy. The risk-free interest rate is based on the term structure of interest rates at the time of the option grant. The 
expected life represents an estimate of the period of time options are expected to remain outstanding, and we have relied upon a 
combination of the observed exercise behavior of our prior grants with similar characteristics, the vesting schedule of the grants 
and an index of peer companies with similar grant characteristics in estimating this variable.

We received cash of $72, $56 and $85 million during 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, from option holders resulting 

from the exercise of stock options. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $24, $31 and 
$47 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2016, there was $1 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to 
nonvested options. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of three years and seven months.

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at December 31, 2016:

Exercise Price Range
$55.01 - $70.00
$70.01 - $80.00
$80.01 - $90.00
$90.01 - $110.00

Options Outstanding

Options Exercisable

Shares
(in thousands)

Average Life
(in years)

Weighted-Average
Exercise
Price

Shares
(in thousands)

Weighted-Average
Exercise
Price

201
937
147
543
1,828

2.93
1.79
6.17
8.49
4.26

$

$

62.42
72.42
82.94
100.31
80.45

201
921
115
173
1,410

$

$

62.42
72.34
82.92
99.14
75.07

114

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Discounted Employee Stock Purchase Plan

We maintain an employee stock purchase plan for all eligible employees. Under this plan, shares of UPS class A common 

stock may be purchased at quarterly intervals at 95% of the NYSE closing price of UPS class B common stock on the last day 
of each quarterly period. Employees purchased 0.9, 0.9 and 0.9 million shares at average prices of $99.27, $95.41 and $95.67 
per share during 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. This plan is not considered to be compensatory, and therefore no 
compensation cost is measured for the employees’ purchase rights. 

115

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 12. SEGMENT AND GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION

We report our operations in three segments: U.S. Domestic Package operations, International Package operations and 

Supply Chain & Freight operations. Package operations represent our most significant business and are broken down into 
regional operations around the world. Regional operations managers are responsible for both domestic and export products 
within their geographic area.

U.S. Domestic Package

Domestic Package operations include the time-definite delivery of letters, documents and packages throughout the United 

States.

International Package

International Package operations include delivery to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, including 
shipments wholly outside the United States, as well as shipments with either origin or destination outside the United States. Our 
International Package reporting segment includes the operations of our Europe, Asia, Americas and ISMEA (Indian 
Subcontinent, Middle East and Africa) operating segments.

Supply Chain & Freight

Supply Chain & Freight includes our Forwarding, Logistics, Coyote, Marken, UPS Mail Innovations, UPS Freight and 
other aggregated business units. Our forwarding, logistics and Coyote units provide services in more than 195 countries and 
territories worldwide and include international air and ocean freight forwarding, customs brokerage, truckload freight 
brokerage, distribution and post-sales services, mail and consulting services. UPS Freight offers a variety of LTL and TL 
services to customers in North America. Other aggregated business units within this segment include The UPS Store and UPS 
Capital.

In evaluating financial performance, we focus on operating profit as a segment’s measure of profit or loss. Operating 
profit is before investment income and other, interest expense and income taxes. The accounting policies of the reportable 
segments are the same as those described in the summary of accounting policies (see note 1), with certain expenses allocated 
between the segments using activity-based costing methods. Unallocated assets are comprised primarily of cash, marketable 
securities and certain investment partnerships.

116

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Segment information as of, and for the years ended, December 31 is as follows (in millions):

Revenue:

U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain & Freight

Consolidated
Operating Profit:

U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain & Freight

Consolidated

Assets:

U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain & Freight
Unallocated

Consolidated

Depreciation and Amortization Expense:

U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain & Freight

Consolidated

2016

2015

2014

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

38,301
12,350
10,255
60,906

3,017
2,044
406
5,467

23,191
8,193
7,806
1,187
40,377

1,479
491
254
2,224

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

36,747
12,149
9,467
58,363

4,767
2,137
764
7,668

21,701
7,858
7,728
1,024
38,311

1,408
475
201
2,084

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

$

35,851
12,988
9,393
58,232

2,859
1,677
432
4,968

20,708
7,850
6,004
878
35,440

1,276
478
169
1,923

117

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Revenue by product type for the years ended December 31 is as follows (in millions):

U.S. Domestic Package:

Next Day Air
Deferred
Ground

Total U.S. Domestic Package

International Package:

Domestic
Export
Cargo

Total International Package

Supply Chain & Freight:

Forwarding and Logistics
Freight
Other

Total Supply Chain & Freight

Consolidated

2016

2015

2014

$

$

6,752
4,082
27,467
38,301

2,441
9,374
535
12,350

6,793
2,736
726
10,255
60,906

$

$

6,570
3,903
26,274
36,747

2,425
9,092
632
12,149

5,900
2,881
686
9,467
58,363

$

$

6,581
3,672
25,598
35,851

2,784
9,586
618
12,988

5,758
3,048
587
9,393
58,232

Geographic information as of, and for the years ended, December 31 is as follows (in millions):

United States:
Revenue
Long-lived assets

International:
Revenue
Long-lived assets

Consolidated:
Revenue
Long-lived assets

2016

2015

2014

$
$

$
$

$
$

48,013
19,253

12,893
5,898

60,906
25,151

$
$

$
$

$
$

45,309
18,196

13,054
5,828

58,363
24,024

$
$

$
$

$
$

43,840
15,902

14,392
6,105

58,232
22,007

Long-lived assets include property, plant and equipment, pension and postretirement benefit assets, long-term 

investments, goodwill and intangible assets.

No countries outside of the United States, nor any individual customers, provided 10% or more of consolidated revenue 

for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014.

118

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 13. INCOME TAXES

The income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended December 31 consists of the following (in millions):

Current:

U.S. Federal
U.S. State and Local
Non-U.S.

Total Current

Deferred:

U.S. Federal
U.S. State and Local
Non-U.S.

Total Deferred
Total Income Tax Expense

Income before income taxes includes the following components (in millions):

United States
Non-U.S.
Total Income Before Income Taxes:

2016

2015

2014

$

$

$

$

1,338
67
177
1,582

103
31
(11)
123
1,705

2016

4,322
814
5,136

$

$

$

$

1,634
88
236
1,958

469
65
6
540
2,498

2015

6,348
994
7,342

$

$

$

$

932
103
185
1,220

427
(11)
(31)
385
1,605

2014

3,819
818
4,637

A reconciliation of the statutory federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate for the years ended December 31 

consists of the following:

Statutory U.S. federal income tax rate
U.S. state and local income taxes (net of federal benefit)
Non-U.S. tax rate differential
Nondeductible/nontaxable items
U.S. federal tax credits
Other
Effective income tax rate

2016

2015

2014

35.0%
1.5
(2.4)
0.8
(1.2)
(0.5)
33.2%

35.0%
1.7
(1.2)
0.2
(1.3)
(0.4)
34.0%

35.0%
1.2
(2.4)
1.3
(1.5)
1.0
34.6%

Our effective tax rate is affected by recurring factors, such as statutory tax rates in the jurisdictions we operate in and the 

relative amounts of taxable income we earn in those jurisdictions. It is also affected by discrete items that may occur in any 
given year, but may not be consistent from year to year. 

Our effective tax rate decreased to 33.2% in 2016, compared with 34.0% in 2015 and 34.6% in 2014, primarily due to the 

effects of the aforementioned recurring factors and the following discrete tax items:

2016 Discrete Items

         In the fourth quarter of 2016, we recognized an income tax benefit of $978 million related to pre-tax mark-to-market 
losses of $2.651 billion on our pension and postretirement defined benefit plans. This income tax benefit was generated at a 
higher average statutory tax rate than the U.S. federal statutory tax rate because it included the effect of U.S. state and local 
taxes. 

2015 Discrete Items

During the third quarter of 2015 and after the filing of our annual federal tax returns, we reconciled our deferred tax 
balances and identified adjustments to be made with respect to prior years’ deferred tax balances. The adjustments resulted in a 
reduction of income tax expense of $66 million.

119

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In connection with our acquisition of Coyote Logistics (see note 7), we distributed $500 million of cash held by a 
Canadian subsidiary to its U.S. parent during the fourth quarter of 2015. As a result of the distribution, we recorded additional 
net income tax expense of $28 million. 

In the fourth quarter of 2015, we recognized an income tax benefit of $39 million related to pre-tax mark-to-market losses 

of $118 million on our pension and postretirement defined benefit plans. This income tax benefit was generated at a lower 
average statutory tax rate than our U.S. federal statutory tax rate because it was due, in part, to non-U.S. benefit plans. 

Other favorable rate impacting items in 2015 include: resolution of several U.S. state and local tax matters; the extension 

of favorable U.S. federal tax provisions associated with the Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes Act of 2015 related to 
research and development tax credits and work opportunity tax credits; and the execution of two bilateral advance pricing 
agreements. These agreements established intercompany transfer pricing arrangements between the U.S. and certain non-U.S. 
jurisdictions related to our small package operations for tax years 2010 through 2019. 

2014 Discrete Items

In 2014, we recorded a $415 million tax benefit related to a pre-tax charge of $1.102 billion for certain health and welfare 

plan changes (see note 5). This income tax benefit was generated at a higher average statutory tax rate than our U.S. federal 
statutory tax rate because it included the effect of U.S. state and local taxes. 

In the fourth quarter of 2014, we recognized an income tax benefit of $392 million related to pre-tax mark-to-market 
losses of $1.062 billion on our pension and postretirement defined benefit plans. This income tax benefit was generated at a 
higher average statutory tax rate than the U.S. federal statutory tax rate because it included the effect of U.S. state and local 
taxes. 

Other Items

Beginning in 2012, we were granted a tax incentive for certain of our non-U.S. operations, which is effective through 
December 31, 2017 and may be extended through December 31, 2022 if additional requirements are satisfied. The tax incentive 
is conditional upon our meeting specific employment and investment thresholds. The impact of this tax incentive decreased 
non-U.S. tax expense by $21, $25 and $21 million for 2016, 2015, and 2014, respectively.

120

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are comprised of the following at December 31 (in millions):

Fixed assets and capitalized software
Other
Deferred tax liabilities

Pension and postretirement benefits
Loss and credit carryforwards
Insurance reserves
Stock compensation
Other
Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax assets valuation allowance
Deferred tax asset (net of valuation allowance)

Net deferred tax asset

Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets:
Deferred tax assets
Deferred tax liabilities
Net deferred tax asset

$

2016
(4,782) $
(756)
(5,538)

2015
(4,776)
(699)
(5,475)

4,236
229
733
297
681
6,176
(159)
6,017

3,915
261
730
256
650
5,812
(197)
5,615

$

$

$

479

$

140

591
(112)
479

$

$

255
(115)
140

The valuation allowance changed by $(38), $(11) and $(43) million during the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 

2014, respectively.

We have a U.S. federal capital loss carryforward of $33 million as of December 31, 2016 which expires December 31, 

2021. In addition, we have U.S. state and local operating loss and credit carryforwards as follows (in millions):

U.S. state and local operating loss carryforwards
U.S. state and local credit carryforwards

2016

2015

$
$

603
70

$
$

894
53

The U.S. state and local operating loss carryforwards expire at varying dates through 2036. The U.S. state and local 
credits can be carried forward for periods ranging from three years to indefinitely. We also have non-U.S. loss carryforwards of 
$479 million as of December 31, 2016, the majority of which may be carried forward indefinitely. As indicated in the table 
above, we have established a valuation allowance for certain non-U.S. and state carryforwards, due to the uncertainty resulting 
from a lack of previous taxable income within the applicable tax jurisdictions.

Undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries amounted to $5.504 billion at December 31, 2016. Those earnings are 

considered to be indefinitely reinvested and, accordingly, no deferred income taxes have been provided thereon. Upon 
distribution of those earnings in the form of dividends or otherwise, we would be subject to income taxes and withholding taxes 
payable in various jurisdictions, which could potentially be offset by foreign tax credits. Determination of the amount of 
unrecognized deferred income tax liability is not practicable because of the complexities associated with its hypothetical 
calculation.

121

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following table summarizes the activity related to our unrecognized tax benefits (in millions):

Tax

Interest

Penalties

Balance at January 1, 2014
Additions for tax positions of the current year
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Reductions for tax positions of prior years for:
Changes based on facts and circumstances
Settlements during the period
Lapses of applicable statute of limitations

Balance at December 31, 2014
Additions for tax positions of the current year
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Reductions for tax positions of prior years for:
Changes based on facts and circumstances
Settlements during the period
Lapses of applicable statute of limitations

Balance at December 31, 2015
Additions for tax positions of the current year
Additions for tax positions of prior years
Reductions for tax positions of prior years for:
Changes based on facts and circumstances
Settlements during the period
Lapses of applicable statute of limitations

Balance at December 31, 2016

$

$

191
15
51

(74)
(10)
(1)
172
24
45

(85)
(6)
(2)
148
17
20

(41)
—
—
144

$

$

$

40
—
13

(8)
(2)
(1)
42
—
21

(8)
(2)
—
53
—
10

(13)
—
—
50

$

4
—
—

—
—
(1)
3
—
3

—
—
—
6
—
—

—
—
—
6

The total amount of  gross unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 that, if recognized, would 
affect the effective tax rate were $142, $147 and $166 million, respectively. Our continuing policy is to recognize interest and 
penalties associated with income tax matters as a component of income tax expense.

We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, most U.S. state and local jurisdictions, and many non-U.S. 

jurisdictions. We have substantially resolved all U.S. federal income tax matters for tax years prior to 2013. 

A number of years may elapse before an uncertain tax position is audited and ultimately settled. It is difficult to predict the 

ultimate outcome or the timing of resolution for uncertain tax positions. It is reasonably possible that the amount of 
unrecognized tax benefits could significantly increase or decrease within the next twelve months. Items that may cause changes 
to unrecognized tax benefits include the timing of interest deductions and the allocation of income and expense between tax 
jurisdictions. These changes could result from the settlement of ongoing litigation, the completion of ongoing examinations, the 
expiration of the statute of limitations or other unforeseen circumstances. At this time, an estimate of the range of the 
reasonably possible change cannot be made.

122

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 14. EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share (in millions, except per share 

amounts):

Numerator:

2016

2015

2014

Net income attributable to common shareowners

$

3,431

$

4,844

$

3,032

Denominator:

Weighted-average shares
Deferred compensation obligations
Vested portion of restricted shares
Denominator for basic earnings per share
Effect of Dilutive Securities:

Restricted performance units
Stock options

Denominator for diluted earnings per share
Basic Earnings Per Share
Diluted Earnings Per Share

878
1
4
883

3
1
887
3.89
3.87

$
$

896
1
4
901

4
1
906
5.38
5.35

$
$

913
1
2
916

7
1
924
3.31
3.28

$
$

Diluted earnings per share for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 exclude the effect of 0.2, 0.2 and 
0.1 million shares, respectively, of common stock that may be issued upon the exercise of employee stock options because such 
effect would be antidilutive.

NOTE 15. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT

Risk Management Policies

We are exposed to market risk, primarily related to foreign exchange rates, commodity prices and interest rates. These 
exposures are actively monitored by management. To manage the volatility relating to certain of these exposures, we enter into a 
variety of derivative financial instruments. Our objective is to reduce, where it is deemed appropriate to do so, fluctuations in 
earnings and cash flows associated with changes in foreign currency rates, commodity prices and interest rates. It is our policy and 
practice to use derivative financial instruments only to the extent necessary to manage exposures. As we use price sensitive 
instruments to hedge a certain portion of our existing and anticipated transactions, we expect that any loss in value for those 
instruments generally would be offset by increases in the value of those hedged transactions. We do not hold or issue derivative 
financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Credit Risk Management

The forward contracts, swaps and options discussed below contain an element of risk that the counterparties may be unable to 
meet the terms of the agreements. However, we minimize such risk exposures for these instruments by limiting the counterparties to 
banks and financial institutions that meet established credit guidelines and by monitoring counterparty credit risk to prevent 
concentrations of credit risk with any single counterparty.

We have agreements with all of our active counterparties (covering the majority of our derivative positions) containing early 

termination rights and/or zero threshold bilateral collateral provisions whereby cash is required based on the net fair value of 
derivatives associated with those counterparties. Events such as a counterparty credit rating downgrade (depending on the ultimate 
rating level) could also allow us to take additional protective measures such as the early termination of trades.  At December 31, 
2016 and 2015, we held cash collateral of $575 and $717 million, respectively, under these agreements; this collateral is included in 
"cash and cash equivalents" on the consolidated balance sheets and its use by UPS is not restricted.

In connection with the agreements described above, we could also be required to provide additional collateral or terminate 

transactions with certain counterparties in the event of a downgrade of our credit rating. The amount of collateral required would be 
determined by the net fair value of the associated derivatives with each counterparty. At December 31, 2016 and 2015, no collateral 
was required to be posted with any of our counterparties; however, the aggregate fair value of instruments not covered by the zero 
threshold bilateral collateral provisions that were in a net liability position was $10 million at December 31, 2016.

We have not historically incurred, and do not expect to incur in the future, any losses as a result of counterparty default.
123

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Accounting Policy for Derivative Instruments

We recognize all derivative instruments as assets or liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets at fair value. The accounting 
for changes in the fair value of a derivative instrument depends on whether it has been designated and qualifies as part of a hedging 
relationship and, further, on the type of hedging relationship. For those derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as 
hedging instruments, a company must designate the derivative, based upon the exposure being hedged, as a cash flow hedge, a fair 
value hedge or a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation.

A cash flow hedge refers to hedging the exposure to variability in expected future cash flows that is attributable to a particular 
risk. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the gain or loss on the 
derivative instrument is reported as a component of AOCI, and reclassified into earnings in the same period during which the 
hedged transaction affects earnings. The remaining gain or loss on the derivative instrument in excess of the cumulative change in 
the present value of future cash flows of the hedged item, or hedge components excluded from the assessment of effectiveness, are 
recognized in the statements of consolidated income during the current period.

A fair value hedge refers to hedging the exposure to changes in the fair value of an existing asset or liability on the 

consolidated balance sheets that is attributable to a particular risk. For derivative instruments that are designated and qualify as a fair 
value hedge, the gain or loss on the derivative instrument is recognized in the statements of consolidated income during the current 
period, as well as the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged item.

A net investment hedge refers to the use of cross currency swaps, forward contracts or foreign currency denominated debt to 

hedge portions of our net investments in foreign operations. For hedges that meet the effectiveness requirements, the net gains or 
losses attributable to changes in spot exchange rates are recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment within AOCI. The 
remainder of the change in value of such instruments is recorded in earnings.

Types of Hedges

Commodity Risk Management

Currently, the fuel surcharges that we apply to our domestic and international package and LTL services are the primary 
means of reducing the risk of adverse fuel price changes on our business. We periodically enter into option and future contracts on 
energy commodity products to manage the price risk associated with forecasted transactions involving refined fuels, principally jet-
A, diesel and unleaded gasoline. The objective of the hedges is to reduce the variability of cash flows, due to changing fuel prices, 
associated with the forecasted transactions involving those products. We have designated and account for these contracts as cash 
flow hedges of the underlying forecasted transactions involving these fuel products and, therefore, the resulting gains and losses 
from these hedges are recognized as a component of fuel expense or revenue when the underlying transactions occur. 

Foreign Currency Risk Management

To protect against the reduction in value of forecasted foreign currency cash flows from our international package business, 

we maintain a foreign currency cash flow hedging program. Our most significant foreign currency exposures relate to the Euro, 
British Pound Sterling, Canadian Dollar, Chinese Renminbi and Hong Kong Dollar. We hedge portions of our forecasted revenue 
denominated in foreign currencies with foreign currency option and forward contracts. We have designated and account for these 
contracts as cash flow hedges of anticipated foreign currency denominated revenue and, therefore, the resulting gains and losses 
from these hedges are recognized as a component of international package revenue when the underlying sales transactions occur.

We also hedge portions of our anticipated cash settlements of intercompany transactions subject to foreign currency 

remeasurement using foreign currency forward contracts. We have designated and account for these contracts as cash flow hedges of 
forecasted foreign currency denominated transactions, and therefore the resulting gains and losses from these hedges are recognized 
as a component of investment income and other when the underlying transactions are subject to currency remeasurement.

We hedge our net investment in certain foreign operations with foreign currency denominated debt instruments. The use of 
foreign denominated debt as the hedging instrument allows the debt to be remeasured to cumulative translation adjustment within 
AOCI to offset the translation risk from those investments. Any ineffective portion of net investment hedging is recognized as a 
component of investment income and other. Balances in the cumulative translation adjustment accounts remain until the sale or 
liquidation of the foreign entity. 

124

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Interest Rate Risk Management

Our indebtedness under our various financing arrangements creates interest rate risk. We use a combination of derivative 

instruments as part of our program to manage the fixed and floating interest rate mix of our total debt portfolio and related overall 
cost of borrowing. The notional amount, interest payment date and maturity date of the swaps match the terms of the associated debt 
being hedged. Interest rate swaps allow us to maintain a target range of floating rate debt within our capital structure.

We have designated and account for the majority of our interest rate swaps that convert fixed rate interest payments into 

floating rate interest payments as hedges of the fair value of the associated debt instruments. Therefore, the gains and losses 
resulting from fair value adjustments to the interest rate swaps and fair value adjustments to the associated debt instruments are 
recorded to interest expense in the period in which the gains and losses occur. We have designated and account for interest rate 
swaps that convert floating rate interest payments into fixed rate interest payments as cash flow hedges of the forecasted payment 
obligations. The gains and losses resulting from fair value adjustments to the interest rate swaps are recorded to AOCI.

We periodically hedge the forecasted fixed-coupon interest payments associated with anticipated debt offerings, using forward 
starting interest rate swaps, interest rate locks or similar derivatives. These agreements effectively lock a portion of our interest rate 
exposure between the time the agreement is entered into and the date when the debt offering is completed, thereby mitigating the 
impact of interest rate changes on future interest expense. These derivatives are settled commensurate with the issuance of the debt, 
and any gain or loss upon settlement is amortized as an adjustment to the effective interest yield on the debt.

Outstanding Positions

The notional amounts of our outstanding derivative positions were as follows as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions):

Currency Hedges:
Euro
British Pound Sterling
Canadian Dollar
Indian Rupee
Mexican Peso
Japanese Yen
Singapore Dollar

Interest Rate Hedges:
Fixed to Floating Interest Rate Swaps
Floating to Fixed Interest Rate Swaps

Investment Market Price Hedges:
Marketable Securities

2016

2015

3,702
1,380
1,053
76
—
3,972
32

5,799
778

3,750
1,140
177
—
3,863
20,000
—

5,799
778

76

496

EUR
GBP
CAD
INR
MXN
JPY
SGD

USD
USD

EUR

As of December 31, 2016, we had no outstanding commodity hedge positions. 

The maximum term over which we are hedging exposures to the variability of cash flow is 16 years.

125

 
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Balance Sheet Recognition

The following table indicates the location on the consolidated balance sheets in which our derivative assets and liabilities have 

been recognized, and the related fair values of those derivatives as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions). The table is 
segregated between those derivative instruments that qualify and are designated as hedging instruments and those that are not, as 
well as by type of contract and whether the derivative is in an asset or liability position.

We have master netting arrangements with substantially all of our counterparties giving us the right of offset for our derivative 

positions. However, we have not elected to offset the fair value positions of our derivative contracts recorded on our consolidated 
balance sheets. The columns labeled "net amounts if right of offset had been applied" indicate the potential net fair value positions 
by type of contract and location on the consolidated balance sheets had we elected to apply the right of offset.

Gross Amounts Presented in
Consolidated Balance Sheets

Net Amounts if Right of
Offset had been Applied

Asset Derivatives
Derivatives designated as hedges:

Foreign exchange contracts
Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts
Derivatives not designated as hedges:

Foreign exchange contracts

Investment market price contracts

Interest rate contracts

Total Asset Derivatives

Balance Sheet Location

2016

2015

2016

2015

Other current assets
Other non-current assets

Other non-current assets

$

Other current assets

Other current assets

Other non-current assets

$

176
131

137

1

—

42

$

408
92

204

2

5

57

$

176
126

119

1

—

40

$

487

$

768

$

462

$

408
92

185

—

—

53

738

Gross Amounts Presented in
Consolidated Balance Sheets

Net Amounts if Right of 
Offset had been Applied

Liability Derivatives
Derivatives Designated As Hedges:

Interest rate contracts

Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts
Derivatives Not Designated As Hedges:

Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

Investment market price contracts

Interest rate contracts

Total Liability Derivatives

Balance Sheet Location

2016

2015

2016

2015

Other current liabilities

Other non-current liabilities

Other non-current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Other non-current liabilities

$

1

6

21

—

—

10

7

45

$

—

—

19

12

—

9

13

53

$

1

1

3

—

—

10

5

20

$

—

—

—

10

—

4

9

23

126

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Income Statement and AOCI Recognition

The following table indicates the amount of gains and losses that have been recognized in AOCI within "unrealized gain (loss) 

on cash flow hedges" for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 for those derivatives designated as cash flow hedges (in 
millions):

Derivative Instruments in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships
Interest rate contracts

Foreign exchange contracts

Total

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on 
Derivative (Effective Portion)

2016

2015

$

$

1

198

199

$

$

(1)

275

274

As of December 31, 2016, $92 million of pre-tax gains related to cash flow hedges that are currently deferred in AOCI are 

expected to be reclassified to income over the 12 month period ended December 31, 2017. The actual amounts that will be 
reclassified to income over the next 12 months will vary from this amount as a result of changes in market conditions.

The amount of ineffectiveness recognized in income on derivative instruments designated in cash flow hedging relationships 

was immaterial for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

The following table indicates the amount of gains and losses that have been recognized in AOCI within "foreign currency 
translation gain (loss)" for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 for those instruments designated as net investment hedges 
(in millions):

Non-derivative Instruments in Net Investment Hedging Relationships
Foreign denominated debt

Total

Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on 
Debt (Effective Portion)

2016

2015

$

$

119

119

$

$

(33)
(33)

The amount of ineffectiveness recognized in income on non-derivative instruments designated in net investment hedging 

relationships was immaterial for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

The following table indicates the amount and location in the statements of consolidated income in which derivative gains and 
losses, as well as the associated gains and losses on the underlying exposure, have been recognized for those derivatives designated 
as fair value hedges for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions):

Derivative Instruments
in Fair Value Hedging
Relationships

Interest rate
contracts

Location of 
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in
Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) 
Recognized in Income

2016

2015

Hedged Items in
Fair Value Hedging
Relationships

Location of 
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in
Income

Amount of Gain (Loss) 
Recognized in Income

2016

2015

Interest Expense

$

(71) $

Fixed-Rate Debt
and Capital Leases

(7)

Interest Expense

$

71

$

7

Additionally, we maintain some interest rate swaps, foreign currency forwards, investment market price forwards and 

commodity contracts that are not designated as hedges. These interest rate swap contracts are intended to provide an economic 
hedge of portions of our outstanding debt. These foreign exchange forward contracts are intended to provide an economic offset to 
foreign currency remeasurement risks for certain assets and liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets. These investment market 
price forward contracts are intended to provide an economic offset to fair value fluctuations of certain investments in marketable 
securities. These commodity contracts are intended to provide a short-term economic offset to fuel expense changes due to price 
fluctuations. 

We also periodically terminate interest rate swaps and foreign currency options by entering into offsetting swap and foreign 

currency positions with different counterparties. As part of this process, we de-designate our original swap and foreign currency 
contracts. These transactions provide an economic offset that effectively eliminates the impact of changes in market valuation.

127

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following is a summary of the amounts recorded in the statements of consolidated income related to fair value changes 

and settlements of these foreign currency forwards, interest rate swaps, investment market price and commodity contracts not 
designated as hedges for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 (in millions):

Derivative Instruments Not Designated in
Hedging Relationships
Commodity contracts

Foreign exchange contracts

Foreign exchange contracts

Investment market price contracts

Foreign exchange contracts

Interest rate contracts

Total

Location of Gain
(Loss) Recognized
in Income

Fuel Expense

Other Operating Expenses

Investment income and other

Investment income and other

Interest Expense

Interest Expense

Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in Income

2016

2015

$

$

— $

—
(145)
(5)
—
(8)
(158) $

(2)

22

43

(5)

(14)

(7)

37

128

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Fair Value Measurements

Our foreign currency, interest rate and investment market price derivatives are largely comprised of over-the-counter 
derivatives, which are primarily valued using pricing models that rely on market observable inputs such as yield curves, currency 
exchange rates and commodity forward prices, and therefore are classified as Level 2. The fair values of our derivative assets and 
liabilities as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 by hedge type are as follows (in millions):

2016
Assets:
Foreign Exchange Contracts

Interest Rate Contracts

Total
Liabilities:
Foreign Exchange Contracts

Investment Market Price Contracts

Interest Rate Contracts

Total

2015
Assets:
Foreign Exchange Contracts

Investment Market Price Contracts

Interest Rate Contracts

Total
Liabilities:
Foreign Exchange Contracts

Investment Market Price Contracts
Interest Rate Contracts

Total

308

179

487

6

10

29

45

502

5

261

768

12

9

32

53

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets 
for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)

Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

$

$

$

$

— $

—

— $

— $

—

—

— $

308

179

487

6

10

29

45

$

$

$

$

— $

—

— $

— $

—

—

— $

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets 
for
Identical Assets
(Level 1)

Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)

Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)

Total

— $

502

$

— $

—

—

— $

— $

—

—

— $

5

261

768

12

9

32

53

$

$

$

—

—

— $

— $

—

—

— $

$

$

$

$

129

  
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

NOTE 16. QUARTERLY INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

Our revenue, segment operating profit, net income, basic and diluted earnings per share on a quarterly basis are presented 

below (in millions, except per share amounts):

Revenue:

U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain & Freight

Total revenue
Operating Profit (Loss):
U.S. Domestic Package
International Package
Supply Chain & Freight
Total operating profit

Net Income
Net Income Per Share:

Basic
Diluted

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Third Quarter

Fourth Quarter

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

2016

2015

$ 9,084
2,914
2,420
14,418

$ 8,814
2,970
2,193
13,977

$ 9,015
3,077
2,537
14,629

$ 8,808
3,045
2,242
14,095

$ 9,289
3,024
2,615
14,928

$ 8,860
2,959
2,418
14,237

$ 10,913
3,335
2,683
16,931

$ 10,265
3,175
2,614
16,054

1,102
574
147
1,823
$ 1,131

1,024
498
151
1,673
$ 1,026

1,233
613
192
2,038
$ 1,269

1,201
552
207
1,960
$ 1,230

1,252
576
206
2,034
$ 1,270

1,258
507
219
1,984
$ 1,257

$

(570)
1,284
580
281
(139)
187
(428)
2,051
(239) $ 1,331

$
$

1.27
1.27

$
$

1.13
1.12

$
$

1.43
1.43

$
$

1.37
1.35

$
$

1.44
1.44

$
$

1.40
1.39

$ (0.27) $
$ (0.27) $

1.49
1.48

Operating profit for the quarter ended December 31, 2016 was impacted by a mark-to-market loss of $2.651 billion on 
our pension and postretirement benefit plans related to the remeasurement of plan assets and liabilities recognized outside of a 
10% corridor (allocated as follows—U.S. Domestic Package $1.908 billion, International Package $425 million and Supply 
Chain & Freight $318 million). This loss reduced fourth quarter net income by $1.673 billion, and basic and diluted earnings 
per share by $1.91.

Operating profit for the quarter ended December 31, 2015 was impacted by a mark-to-market loss of $118 million on our 
pension and postretirement benefit plans related to the remeasurement of plan assets and liabilities recognized outside of a 10% 
corridor (allocated as follows—U.S. Domestic Package $62 million, International Package $44 million and Supply Chain & 
Freight $12 million). This loss reduced net income by $79 million, and basic and diluted earnings per share by $0.09.

130

 
 
Item 9.  Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

None.

Item 9A. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures:

As of the end of the period covered by this report, management, including our chief executive officer and chief financial 
officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures and internal controls 
over financial reporting. Based upon, and as of the date of, the evaluation, our chief executive officer and chief financial officer 
concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the 
reports we file and submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported as and when required and 
is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as 
appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Changes in Internal Control:

There were no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 

2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial 
reporting.

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting:

UPS management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting for 

United Parcel Service, Inc. and its subsidiaries (the “Company”). Based on the criteria for effective internal control over 
financial reporting established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring 
Organizations of the Treadway Commission, management has assessed the Company’s internal control over financial reporting 
as effective as of December 31, 2016. The independent registered public accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche LLP, as auditors 
of the consolidated balance sheets of United Parcel Service, Inc. and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2016 and the related 
statements of consolidated income, consolidated comprehensive income and consolidated cash flows for the year ended 
December 31, 2016, has issued an attestation report on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting, which is 
included herein.

/s/   United Parcel Service, Inc.
February 20, 2017 

131

 
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Board of Directors and Shareowners
United Parcel Service, Inc.
Atlanta, Georgia

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of United Parcel Service, Inc. and subsidiaries (the 

"Company") as of  December 31, 2016, based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued 
by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is responsible for 
maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over 
financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our 
responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 

States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective 
internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding 
of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design 
and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we 
considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the 

company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the 
company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of 
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted 
accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) 
pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of 
the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of 
financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the 
company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide 
reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's 
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or 
improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a 
timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future 
periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of 
compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as 

of December 31, 2016, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the 
Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United 
States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2016 of the Company and our report 
dated February 20, 2017 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements. 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Atlanta, Georgia
February 20, 2017

132

Item 9B. 

Other Information

None.

PART III

133

 
Item 10.  Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance  
Executive Officers of the Registrant 

Name and Office
David P. Abney

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

James J. Barber, Jr.

Senior Vice President and President, UPS International

Norman M. Brothers, Jr.

Senior Vice President, General Counsel and
Corporate Secretary

Teresa M. Finley
        Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing and

Business Services Officer

Alan Gershenhorn

Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer

Principal Occupation
and Employment For
the Last Five Years

Age

61 Chief Executive Officer (2014 - present),  Chairman 
(2016 - present) Senior Vice President and Chief 
Operating Officer (2007 - 2014).

56 Senior Vice President and President, UPS

International (2013 - present), President and Chief
Operating Officer, UPS Europe, Middle East, and
Africa (2010 - 2013).

49 Senior Vice President, General Counsel and 

Corporate Secretary (2016 - present)

56 Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing and

Business Services Officer (2016 - present), Senior
Vice President of Global Marketing (2015 - 2016),
Corporate Controller and Treasurer (2010 - 2015),
International Chief Financial Officer (2010).

58 Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial

Officer (2014 - present), Senior Vice President,
Worldwide Sales, Marketing and Strategy (2011 -
2014).

Myron A. Gray

Senior Vice President and President, United States 
Operations

59 Senior Vice President and President, United States
Operations (2014 - present), Senior Vice President,
United States Operations (2009 - 2014).

Kate M. Gutmann

Senior Vice President, Chief Sales and Solutions Officer

48 Senior Vice President, Chief Sales and Solutions 

Officer (2014 - present), President, Worldwide Sales 
(2011 - 2014).

Teri P. McClure

Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer,
Labor Relations

Richard N. Peretz

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and 
Treasurer

53 Senior Vice President, Chief Human Resources

Officer, Labor Relations (2016 - present), Senior
Vice President and Chief Legal, Communications,
and Human Resources Officer (2015 - 2016), Senior
Vice President of Legal, Compliance and Public
Affairs, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
(2006 - 2014).

55 Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and

Treasurer (2015 - present), Corporate Controller and
Treasurer (2014-2015), Corporate Controller (2013 -
2015), Vice President of Corporate Finance and
Accounting (2008 - 2013).

Juan R. Perez

Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer

50 Senior Vice President, Chief Information Officer
(2016 - present), Vice President, Information
Services (2011 - 2016).

Mark R. Wallace

Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and 
Sustainability

54 Senior Vice President, Global Engineering and

Sustainability (2015 - present), President, Global
Logistics & Distribution (2013 - 2015), Corporate
U.S. Engineering Coordinator (2012 - 2013),
Corporate I.E. International Coordinator (2007 -
2012).

134

 
Information about our directors is presented under the caption “Your Board of Directors" in our definitive Proxy 
Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareowners to be held on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Information about our Audit Committee is presented under the caption “Your Board of Directors - Committees of the 
Board of Directors” and "Audit Committee Matters" in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareowners 
to be held on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Information about our Code of Business Conduct is presented under the caption “Where You Can Find More Information” 

in Part I, Item 1 of this report.

Information about our compliance with Section 16 of the Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, is presented under the 

caption “Ownership of Our Securities - Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in our definitive Proxy 
Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareowners to be held on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 11.  Executive Compensation

Information about our board and executive compensation is presented under the captions “Your Board of Directors - 

Director Compensation" and "Executive Compensation" in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of 
Shareowners to be held on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters

Information about security ownership is presented under the caption “Ownership of Our Securities - Securities 
Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of 
Shareowners to be held on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Information about our equity compensation plans is presented under the caption “Executive Compensation - Equity 
Compensation Plans” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareowners to be held on May 4, 2017 and 
is incorporated herein by reference.

Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence

Information about transactions with related persons is presented under the caption “Corporate Governance - Conflicts of 
Interest and Related Person Transactions” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareowners to be held 
on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference.

Information about director independence is presented under the caption “Corporate Governance - Director Independence” 
in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareowners to be held on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein 
by reference.

Item 14.  Principal Accounting Fees and Services

Information about aggregate fees billed to us by our principal accountant is presented under the caption “Audit 
Committee Matters - Principal Accounting Firm Fees” in our definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meetings of 
Shareowners to be held on May 4, 2017 and is incorporated herein by reference.

135

 
 
 
 
 
PART IV

Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

(a) 1. Financial Statements.

See Item 8 for the financial statements filed with this report.

2. Financial Statement Schedules.

None.

3. List of Exhibits.

See the Exhibit Index for a list of the exhibits incorporated by reference into or filed with this report.

(b) Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K.

See the Exhibit Index for a list of the exhibits incorporated by reference into or filed with this report.

(c) Financial Statement Schedules.

None.

136

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, United Parcel Service, Inc. has 

duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

SIGNATURES

UNITED PARCEL SERVICE, INC.
(REGISTRANT)

By:

/S/    DAVID P. ABNEY   
David P. Abney

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following 

persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Signature

Title

Date

/S/  DAVID P. ABNEY

   Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer)   February 20, 2017

Date: February 20, 2017 

David P. Abney

/S/ RODNEY C. ADKINS      

Rodney C. Adkins

/S/  MICHAEL J. BURNS           

Michael J. Burns

/S/  WILLIAM R. JOHNSON          

William R. Johnson

/S/  Dr. CANDACE KENDLE          

Candace Kendle

/S/  ANN M. LIVERMORE          

Ann M. Livermore

/S/  RUDY H. P. MARKHAM          

Rudy H. P. Markham

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

Director

February 20, 2017

  February 20, 2017

  February 20, 2017

  February 20, 2017

  February 20, 2017

  February 20, 2017

/S/  RICHARD N. PERETZ        

Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

February 20, 2017

Richard N. Peretz

 (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

/S/  CLARK T. RANDT, JR.          

Clark T. Randt, Jr.

/S/  JOHN T. STANKEY 

John T. Stankey

/S/  CAROL B. TOMÉ        

Carol B. Tomé

/S/  KEVIN M. WARSH      

Kevin M. Warsh

Director

Director

Director

Director

137

  February 20, 2017

February 20, 2017

February 20, 2017

February 20, 2017

 
 
 
  
 
EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
No.

  Description

3.1

— Form of Restated Certificate of Incorporation of United Parcel Service, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to

Form 8-K filed on May 12, 2010).

3.2

— Amended and Restated Bylaws of United Parcel Service, Inc. as of February 14, 2013 (incorporated by reference to

Exhibit 3.1 to Form 8-K, filed on February 19, 2013).

4.1

4.2

— Indenture relating to 8 3/8% Debentures due April 1, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(c) to Registration 

Statement No. 33-32481, filed December 7, 1989).

— Indenture dated as of December 18, 1997 relating to 8 3/8% Debentures due 2030 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 

T-3C to Form T-3 filed December 18, 1997).

4.3

— Indenture dated as of January 26, 1999 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to

Form S-3 (No. 333-08369), filed on January 26, 1999).

4.4

— Form of Supplemental Indenture dated as of March 27, 2000 to Indenture dated January 26, 1999 (incorporated by

reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Form S-3 (No. 333-08369-01), filed on March 15, 2000).

4.5

— Form of Second Supplemental Indenture dated as of September 21, 2001 to Indenture dated January 26, 1999

(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to Form 10-Q for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2001).

4.6

— Form of Indenture dated as of August 26, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form S-3 (No. 333-108272),

filed on August 27, 2003).

4.7

— Form of First Supplemental Indenture dated as of November 15, 2013 to Indenture dated as of August 26, 2003
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form S-3ASR (No. 333-192369) filed on November 15, 2013).

4.8

— Form of Note for 5.50% Senior Notes due January 15, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K filed

on January 15, 2008).

4.9

— Form of Note for 6.20% Senior Notes due January 15, 2038 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form 8-K filed

on January 15, 2008).

4.10 — Form of Note for 5.125% Senior Notes due April 1, 2019 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K filed on

March 24, 2009).

4.11 — Form of Note for 3.125% Senior Notes due January 15, 2021 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K

filed on November 12, 2010).

4.12 — Form of Note for 4.875% Senior Notes due November 15, 2040 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K

filed on November 12, 2010).

4.13 — Form of Note for 1.125% Senior Notes due October 1, 2017 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K filed

on September 27, 2012).

4.14 — Form of Note for 2.450% Senior Notes due October 1, 2022 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K filed

on September 27, 2012).

4.15 — Form of Note for 3.625% Senior Notes due October 1, 2042 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form 8-K filed

on September 27, 2012).

4.16 — Form of Note for Floating Rate Senior Notes due December 15, 2064 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form

8-K filed on December 15, 2014).

4.17 — Form of Note for Floating Rate Senior Notes due September 15, 2065 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form

8-K filed on September 17, 2015).

4.18 — Form of Note for Floating Rate Senior Notes due July 15, 2020 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 and Exhibit 4.2

to Form 8-K filed on November 20, 2015).

4.19 — Form of Note for 1.625% Senior Notes due November 15, 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 and Exhibit

4.2 to Form 8-K filed on November 20, 2015).

4.20 — Form of Note for Floating Rate Senior Notes due September 15, 2065 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form

8-K filed on December 15, 2015).

138

 
4.21 — Form of Note for Floating Rate Senior Notes due March 15, 2066 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K

filed on April 1, 2016).

4.22 — Form of Note for Floating Rate Senior Notes due March 15, 2066 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K

filed on June 15, 2016).

4.23 — Form of Note for Floating Rate Senior Notes due March 15, 2066 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K

filed on August 24, 2016).

4.24 — Form of Note for 2.40% Senior Notes Due November 2026 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to Form 8-K filed

on October 24, 2016).

4.25 — Form of Note for 3.40% Senior Notes Due November 2046 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to Form 8-K filed

on October 24, 2016).

4.26 — Form of Note for 1.00% Senior Notes Due November 2028 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to Form 8-K filed

on October 24, 2016).

10.1 — Amendment No. 1 to UPS Retirement Plan, as Amended and Restated, effective as of June 30, 2016 (incorporated by

reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 10-Q for the Quarter Ended June 30, 2016).

10.2 —

UPS 401(k) Savings Plan, Amendment and Restatement effective as of July 1, 2016 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the Quarter Ended September 30, 2016).

10.5 — UPS Excess Coordinating Benefit Plan, as amended and restated, effective as of January 1, 2012 (incorporated by

reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

10.6 — United Parcel Service, Inc. 2012 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex II to the

Definitive Proxy Statement, filed on March 12, 2012).

(1) Form of Long-Term Incentive Performance Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2011).

(2) Form of Non-Management Director Restricted Stock Unit Award (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010).

(3) UPS Management Incentive Program Terms and Conditions effective as of January 1, 2011 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.10(3) to the 2010 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

(4) UPS Stock Option Program Terms and Conditions effective as of January 1, 2012 (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.7(4) to the 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

(5) UPS Long-Term Incentive Performance Program Terms and Conditions effective as of January 1, 2012 (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.7(5) to the 2011 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

10.7 — Form of UPS Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to the 2010 Annual Report on

Form 10-K).

(1) Amendment No. 1 to the UPS Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7(1) to the 2012
Annual Report on Form 10-K).

10.8 — United Parcel Service, Inc. Nonqualified Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.1 to

the registration statement on Form S-8 (No. 333-34054), filed on April 5, 2000).

10.9 — Discounted Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended and restated, effective October 1, 2002.

(1) Amendment No. 1 to the Discounted Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12(1)
to the 2005 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

(2) Amendment No. 2 to the Discounted Employee Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13(2)
to the 2009 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

(3) Amendment No. 3 to the Discounted Employee Stock Purchase Plan  (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9(3)
to the 2012 Annual Report on Form 10-K).

10.10 — 2015 Omnibus Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Annex A to the Definitive Proxy Statement

filed on March 24, 2015).

11

— Statement regarding Computation of per Share Earnings (incorporated by reference to note 14 to Part I, Item 8

“Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K).

139

†12 — Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges.

†21 — Subsidiaries of the Registrant.

†23 — Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.

†31.1 — Certificate of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

†31.2 — Certificate of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the

Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

†32.1 — Certification of the Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

†32.2 —   Certification of the Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

†101 —   The following financial information from the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2016,

formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets, (ii) the
Consolidated Statements of Income, (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, (iv) the Consolidated
Statements of Cash Flows, and (v) the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements.

__________________________

†

Filed herewith.

140

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures
(amounts in millions, except per share amounts)

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

2016

2015

2014

2013

2012

2011

Net Income

Diluted Earnings Per Share

$    

$    

$    

$    

$       

$    

$      

$      

$      

$      

$      

$      

$    

$    

$    

$    

$    

$    

$      

$      

$      

$      

$      

$      

3,431
2,651
-
-
-
-
-
(978)
5,104

5,467
2,651
-
-
-
-
-
8,118

4,844
118
-
-
-
-
-
(39)
4,923

7,668
118
-
-
-
-
-
7,786

3,032
1,062
-
-
-
-
1,102
(807)
4,389

4,968
1,062
-
-
-
-
1,102
7,132

4,372
-
284
(245)
-
-
-
(75)
4,336

7,034
-
284
(245)
-
-
-
7,073

807
4,831
-
-
-
896
-
(2,145)
4,389

1,343
4,831
-
-
-
896
-
7,070

3,804
827
-
-
(33)
-
-
(287)
4,311

6,080
827
-
-
(33)
-
-
6,874

$    

$    

$    

$    

$    

$    

3.87
2.98
-
-
-
-
-
(1.10)
5.75

5.35
0.12
-
-
-
-
-
(0.04)
5.43

3.28
1.15
-
-
-
-
1.19
(0.87)
4.75

4.61
-
0.30
(0.26)
-
-
-
(0.08)
4.57

0.83
4.99
-
-
-
0.92
-
(2.21)
4.53

3.84
0.83
-
-
(0.03)
-
-
(0.29)
4.35

9.0%
4.3%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
13.3%

13.1%
0.2%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
13.3%

8.5%
1.8%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
1.9%
12.2%

12.7%
0.0%
0.5%
-0.4%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
12.8%

2.5%
8.9%
0.0%
0.0%
0.0%
1.7%
0.0%
13.1%

11.4%
1.6%
0.0%
0.0%
-0.1%
0.0%
0.0%
12.9%

2016

2015

Operating Profit
2014
2013

2012

2011

2016

2015

Operating Margin
2014
2013

2012

2011

$    

$    

$    

$    

$    

$    

U.S. Domestic Package
2016
2015

Operating Profit
International Package
2016
2015

Supply Chain & Freight
2016
2015

U.S. Domestic Package
2016
2015

$    

$    

3,017
1,908
4,925

$    

$    

4,767
62
4,829

$    

$    

2,044
425
2,469

$    

$    

2,137
44
2,181

$       

$       

$       

$       

406
318
724

764
12
776

7.9%
5.0%
12.9%

13.0%
0.1%
13.1%

Operating Margin
International Package
2016
2015

16.6% #
3.4%
20.0%

17.6%
0.4%
18.0%

Supply Chain & Freight
2016
2015

4.0% #
3.1%
7.1%

8.1%
0.1%
8.2%

Return on Assets
2015
35,440
35,744
38,311
-
-

$  
$  
$  

$  
$  
$  

39
38,350
36,876
37,047
13.1%
13.3%

$  
$  
$  

$  
$  
$  

2016
38,311
38,350
40,377
-
-
978
41,355
39,344
39,853
8.7%
12.8%

Adjusted Shareowners' Equity
2016
2014
2015

$    
$    
$       

2,491
5,200
429
3,421
-
-
3,850

$    

$    
$    
$    

2,158
5,356
2,491
2,709
-
-
5,200

$    
$    
$    

6,488
6,566
2,158
3,198
-
-
5,356

$    

$    

$  
$  
$  

$  
$  
$  

2014
35,553
35,517
35,440
-
1,417
(1,113)
35,744
35,497
35,631
8.5%
12.3%

2016

2015

2014

Reported
5,467
$    
(1,815)
3,652

$    

Adjusted
8,118
$    
(2,801)
5,317

$    

Reported
7,668
$    
(2,607)
5,061

$    

Adjusted
7,786
$    
(2,647)
5,139

$    

Reported
4,968
$    
(1,719)
3,249

$    

Adjusted
7,132
$    
(2,532)
4,600

$    

$  

11,316
12,394
2,491
429
13,315

$  

$  

11,316
12,394
5,200
3,850
16,380

$  

$    

9,856
11,316
2,158
2,491
12,911

$  

$    

9,856
11,316
5,356
5,200
15,864

$  

$  

10,824
9,856
6,488
2,158
14,663

$  

$  

10,824
9,856
6,566
5,356
16,301

$  

27.4%

32.5%

39.2%

32.4%

22.2%

28.2%

Reported / GAAP

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charge
TNT Termination Fee and Related Expenses
Gain Upon Liquidation of Foreign Subsidiary
Gains on Real Estate Transactions
Multiemployer Pension Plan Withdrawal Charge
Health & Welfare Plan Charges
Income Tax Expense (Benefit) from the Items Above

Adjusted

Reported / GAAP

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charge
TNT Termination Fee and Related Expenses
Gain Upon Liquidation of Foreign Subsidiary
Gains on Real Estate Transactions
Multiemployer Pension Plan Withdrawal Charge
Health & Welfare Plan Charges

Adjusted

Reported / GAAP

Defined Benefit Plans Mark-to-Market Charge

Adjusted

Beginning Balance (Reported / GAAP)
Beginning Balance (Adjusted)
Ending Balance (Reported / GAAP)

Unrecognized Pension and Postretirement Benefit Costs (Net of Tax)
Health & Welfare Plan Charges
Long-Term U.S. Deferred Tax Assets

Adjusted Ending Balance
Average Reported Balance ((Reported Beginning + Reported Ending) / 2)
Average Adjusted Balance ((Adjusted Beginning + Adjusted Ending) / 2)
Return on Reported Balance (Reported Net Income / Average Reported Balance)
Return on Adjusted Balance (Adjusted Net Income / Average Adjusted Balance)

Return on Invested Capital

Operating Profit
Less: Taxes 

Beginning LT Debt
Ending LT Debt
Beginning Shareowners' Equity
Ending Shareowners' Equity
Average Invested Capital

Return on Invested Capital

Note:  The adjustments denoted in the tables above are further described in our annual reports on Form 10-K for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011, as well as in the historical financial
            schedules on our investor relations website.  The taxes deducted from operating profit in the return on invested capital calculation are based on the reported and adjusted effective tax rates noted 
            on page 46 of our 2016 annual report on Form 10-K.

Note:  We supplement the reporting of our financial information determined under Generally Accepted Accounting Principles ("GAAP") with certain non-GAAP financial measures, including net income,
            earnings per share, operating profit, operating margin, return on assets, and return on invested capital adjusted for the non-comparable items listed in the tables above.  We
            believe these adjusted measures provide meaningful information to assist investors and analysts in understanding our financial results and assessing our prospects for future performance.  We
            believe these adjusted financial measures are important indicators of our recurring results of operations because they exclude items that may not be indicative of, or are unrelated to, our core
            operating results, and provide a better baseline for analyzing trends in our underlying businesses.

A1

      
         
      
          
      
         
        
        
        
          
        
        
          
          
          
         
          
          
          
          
          
        
          
          
          
          
          
        
          
          
          
          
          
       
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
       
          
          
          
          
         
          
          
          
          
          
        
          
          
          
      
          
          
          
          
          
        
          
          
          
        
          
        
          
     
        
       
       
       
       
       
       
      
         
      
          
      
         
          
          
          
         
          
          
          
          
          
        
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
          
         
          
          
          
      
          
          
          
      
           
         
           
         
           
          
          
          
      
      
      
          
          
      
          
          
          
         
           
     
          
          
          
     
     
     
     
     
     
    
    
    
    
      
      
      
      
      
      
      
      
         
      
      
      
      
      
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INVE STOR INFOR M ATION

Annual Meeting 
Our annual meeting of shareowners will be held at 8 a.m. 
on May 4, 2017, at the Hotel DuPont, 11th and Market Street, 
Wilmington, DE. Shareowners of record as of March 6, 2017, 
are entitled to vote at the meeting.

Investor Relations 
You can contact our Investor Relations Department at:

UPS 
55 Glenlake Parkway, NE 
Atlanta, GA 30328-3474 
800.877.1503 or 404.828.6059 
investors.ups.com

Exchange Listing 
Our Class B common stock is listed on the New York  
Stock Exchange under the symbol “UPS”.

Transfer Agent and Registrar 
Computershare 
Send notices of address changes or questions regarding  
account status, stock transfer, lost certificates, or  
dividend payments to:

 Regular Mail: 
UPS 
c/o Computershare 
PO Box 30169 
College Station, TX 77842-3169

or:

 Expedited Delivery: 
UPS 
c/o Computershare 
250 Royall Street 
Canton, MA 02021

Form 10-K  
Our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended  
December 31, 2016, forms part of the UPS 2016 Annual  
Report. If you would like an additional copy of our Form  
10-K, you can access it through the Investor Relations  
website at www.investors.ups.com or at the Securities  
and Exchange Commission website, sec.gov. The Form 10-K 
also is available free of charge by calling, contacting via the 
website, or writing to the Investor Relations Department.

UPS Shareowner Services  
Convenient access 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 Class A Common Shareowners 
www.computershare.com/ups 
888.663.8325

 Class B Common Shareowners 
www.computershare.com/ups 
800.758.4674

Calls from outside the United States: 201.680.6612 
TDD for hearing impaired: 800.231.5469 
TDD for non-U.S. shareowners: 201.680.6610

Direct Stock Purchase Plan  
To make an initial purchase of UPS Class B Common Stock 
online, visit www.computershare.com/Investor and go 
to “Buy stock direct-search and enroll in available plans”. 
Follow the instructions provided to search for Investment 
Plans and access the Enrollment Wizard.

Current Class B shareowners can enroll in the  
plan online by accessing their accounts through  
www.computershare.com/ups or by calling 800.758.4674.

Dividend Reinvestment Plan 
To reinvest dividends in the purchase of additional  
UPS shares:

Class A and B Shareowners  
www.computershare.com/ups

Online Access to Shareowner Account Materials  
Enroll in E-Communications, a self-service program 
that provides electronic notification and secure access 
to shareowner communications. To enroll, access your 
account at www.computershare.com/ups. After accessing 
your account select the “View Account” link to manage your 
holdings. Then click on “My Profile,” select “Update” under 
“Communications” and follow the enrollment instructions.

UPS Websites 
Investor Relations . . . . . . . . . . . . investors.ups.com

UPS Corporate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ups.com

Sustainability/ 
Corporate Responsibility . . . . sustainability.ups.com

Services and Solutions . . . . . . . ups.com/businesssolutions

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
55 Glenlake Parkway, NE, Atlanta, GA 30328-3474

www.ups.com

© 2017 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. UPS, the UPS brandmark and the color brown are trademarks of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.