UPS, the ubiquitous brown trucks crisscrossing our neighborhoods, is a cornerstone of modern commerce. We rely on them to deliver everything from essential medications to eagerly awaited online purchases. But what happens when you miss the delivery? How many attempts does UPS actually make before sending your package back to the sender? The answer, while seemingly straightforward, involves nuances and factors that are crucial for both senders and recipients to understand. This article delves deep into UPS’s delivery attempt policy, exploring the reasons behind it, the variables that influence it, and how you can ensure your package reaches you successfully.
Understanding UPS’s Standard Delivery Attempt Policy
Generally, UPS makes up to three delivery attempts to deliver a package to a residential address. This is their standard operating procedure for most shipments. After each unsuccessful attempt, UPS leaves a “UPS InfoNotice,” also known as a delivery attempt notice. This notice provides information about the attempted delivery, including the date and time, and instructions on how to proceed. The InfoNotice is a crucial piece of information for you to track and understand.
The notice will typically outline a few options:
- A date for the next delivery attempt.
- Instructions on how to redirect the package to a UPS Access Point for pickup.
- Information on how to contact UPS to reschedule the delivery or provide specific delivery instructions.
It’s important to note that these three attempts are usually made on consecutive business days, excluding weekends and holidays. However, this can vary depending on the specific service and the sender’s instructions.
Factors Influencing The Number Of Delivery Attempts
While the standard is three attempts, several factors can influence whether UPS adheres strictly to this policy. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate and manage your deliveries more effectively.
The Type Of UPS Service Used
The specific UPS service used for shipping plays a significant role. Certain premium services, like UPS Next Day Air, might receive slightly different handling, potentially leading to a quicker return to sender if delivery is unsuccessful. Conversely, slower, less expensive services might allow for the full three attempts, giving recipients more opportunities to receive their package. Check the specific details associated with the shipping service used by the sender.
The Sender’s Instructions And Agreements
The sender often has the ability to customize delivery instructions. A sender might request that the package only be delivered with a signature required. In such cases, if no one is available to sign for the package after three attempts, it will be returned. Similarly, a sender can specify that the package should be held at a UPS Access Point after the first failed attempt, bypassing subsequent delivery attempts to the recipient’s address. Understanding the sender’s instructions is crucial in preventing delivery issues.
Package Type And Value
The nature and value of the package can also influence the number of delivery attempts. High-value items or packages requiring special handling may be subject to stricter delivery protocols. UPS may be more diligent in attempting to deliver these packages, and might require a signature upon delivery. For fragile items, they may be more cautious about leaving them unattended, potentially leading to more attempted deliveries to ensure proper hand-off.
Local UPS Driver’s Discretion
While UPS has established policies, the local UPS driver also exercises some discretion. Factors like neighborhood safety, weather conditions, and access to the delivery address can influence the driver’s decision-making process. For instance, a driver might be hesitant to leave a package unattended in an area with a high risk of theft, even if the sender has not requested a signature. In such cases, they might attempt delivery on another day.
UPS Access Point Options
UPS Access Points are local businesses, like pharmacies or convenience stores, that partner with UPS to provide package pickup and drop-off services. If you’re not going to be home to receive a delivery, you can often redirect your package to a UPS Access Point. This allows you to pick up your package at your convenience, bypassing the need for multiple delivery attempts to your home. This is often the most reliable way to receive your package without delay.
What Happens After Three Unsuccessful Delivery Attempts?
After three unsuccessful delivery attempts, UPS typically holds the package for five business days at a local UPS facility. During this time, you can contact UPS to arrange for pickup or potentially reschedule delivery. However, this is often dependent on the sender’s original instructions. It’s vital to refer to the InfoNotice left by the driver for precise instructions.
If you fail to pick up the package or make alternative arrangements within the five-business-day holding period, the package will be returned to the sender. The sender is then responsible for deciding whether to reship the package, issue a refund, or take other appropriate action.
How To Ensure Successful UPS Deliveries
Preventing missed deliveries and ensuring your package reaches you successfully requires proactive steps. Here are some effective strategies:
Tracking Your Package
The most important step is to actively track your package using the tracking number provided by the sender. This allows you to monitor its progress and anticipate the estimated delivery date. UPS’s website and mobile app provide real-time updates on your package’s location and delivery status.
UPS My Choice
Sign up for UPS My Choice. This free service gives you greater control over your deliveries. With UPS My Choice, you can:
- Redirect packages to a UPS Access Point.
- Reschedule deliveries for a more convenient day.
- Authorize the driver to leave the package with a neighbor.
- Receive estimated delivery times.
UPS My Choice is an invaluable tool for managing your deliveries and minimizing the risk of missed attempts.
Signature Required Options
If you’re concerned about package theft or require secure delivery, consider requesting a “signature required” option when placing your order. This ensures that the package will only be delivered to someone who can sign for it. Keep in mind that if no one is available to sign, UPS will attempt delivery on subsequent days, or redirect to a UPS Access Point.
Communicating With UPS
If you anticipate being unavailable during the delivery window, contact UPS directly. You can provide specific delivery instructions, such as requesting that the package be left with a neighbor or at a specific location on your property. Clear and timely communication with UPS can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful delivery.
Address Verification
Ensure that the sender has your correct and complete delivery address. Errors in the address, such as a misspelled street name or an incorrect apartment number, can lead to delivery delays or failures. Double-check your address when placing an order and confirm it with the sender.
Consider UPS Access Points
If you have a busy schedule or unpredictable availability, the easiest solution is to designate a UPS Access Point as your delivery location. You can then pick up your package at your convenience, eliminating the need for home delivery attempts.
Special Considerations For Certain Shipments
Certain types of shipments may be subject to different delivery protocols. Understanding these nuances can help you prepare for and manage these deliveries more effectively.
UPS SurePost
UPS SurePost is a service where UPS handles the package for most of the journey, but the final delivery is made by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The number of delivery attempts for SurePost packages depends on the USPS’s policies, which generally involve one delivery attempt, followed by holding the package at the local post office for pickup.
International Shipments
International shipments are subject to customs clearance procedures and may require additional documentation or payment of duties and taxes. If there are issues with customs clearance, UPS may attempt to contact you to resolve the matter. However, delays or failures to comply with customs regulations can lead to the package being returned to the sender.
High-Value Or Sensitive Items
For high-value or sensitive items, such as jewelry, electronics, or medications, UPS may require a signature upon delivery. In some cases, UPS may also offer additional insurance coverage or security measures to protect these shipments.
Navigating Delivery Issues And Resolving Problems
Despite your best efforts, delivery issues can sometimes arise. If you encounter problems with your UPS delivery, here are some steps you can take to resolve them:
Contact UPS Customer Service
The first step is to contact UPS customer service to report the issue and seek assistance. You can reach UPS customer service by phone, email, or online chat. Be prepared to provide your tracking number and any relevant details about the delivery problem.
File A Claim
If your package is lost, damaged, or delayed, you may be able to file a claim with UPS. The claims process typically requires you to provide documentation, such as proof of value and a description of the damage.
Contact The Sender
In some cases, it may be more effective to contact the sender directly to resolve delivery issues. The sender may be able to provide additional information about the shipment or assist you in contacting UPS.
Document Everything
Keep a record of all communication with UPS and the sender, including dates, times, and the names of the individuals you spoke with. This documentation can be helpful if you need to escalate the issue or file a claim.
Be Patient And Persistent
Resolving delivery issues can sometimes take time and effort. Be patient and persistent in your efforts to communicate with UPS and the sender, and don’t give up until the problem is resolved.
Conclusion
UPS’s standard practice of making up to three delivery attempts provides a reasonable opportunity for recipients to receive their packages. However, various factors, including the type of service, the sender’s instructions, and the driver’s discretion, can influence the actual number of attempts made. By understanding UPS’s delivery policies, utilizing tools like UPS My Choice, and taking proactive steps to manage your deliveries, you can significantly increase the likelihood of a successful and hassle-free delivery experience. And knowing what happens after those attempts – the holding period and eventual return – empowers you to stay informed and in control. Ultimately, successful delivery is a collaborative effort, requiring both UPS and the recipient to play their part.
How Many Delivery Attempts Will UPS Typically Make Before Returning A Package To The Sender?
UPS typically makes up to three delivery attempts on consecutive business days, excluding weekends and holidays. After each unsuccessful attempt, the driver will leave an InfoNotice, which is a notification indicating the attempted delivery and providing options for you to retrieve your package or reschedule delivery. This applies to most residential addresses.
If all three delivery attempts are unsuccessful, or if the package requires a signature and no one is available to sign, the package will be held at a local UPS facility or Access Point for a limited time, typically five business days. After this holding period, the package will be returned to the sender. It’s crucial to check the InfoNotice for specific instructions and deadlines to avoid the package being returned.
What Factors Might Influence The Number Of Delivery Attempts UPS Makes?
Several factors can influence the number of delivery attempts UPS will make. For example, if a package requires a direct signature, UPS might be less flexible and only make one or two attempts if no one is available to sign. The sender can also specify delivery requirements that affect the number of attempts.
The type of service used, such as UPS SurePost (where UPS hands off the package to the USPS for final delivery), can also impact the delivery process and number of attempts made directly by UPS. Furthermore, weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances could lead to delays and potentially reduce the number of planned attempts, although UPS will usually resume delivery as soon as possible.
What Is A UPS InfoNotice, And What Information Does It Contain?
A UPS InfoNotice is a notification slip left by a UPS driver after an unsuccessful delivery attempt. It serves as your primary source of information regarding your package and how to proceed. It’s important to retain the notice as it contains essential information needed to track and retrieve your package.
The InfoNotice typically includes the date and time of the attempted delivery, the reason for the failed delivery (e.g., “No one was home,” “Business closed”), your package’s tracking number, and instructions on how to reschedule delivery, pick up the package at a UPS Access Point, or provide delivery instructions. It also includes the date after which the package will be returned to the sender if no action is taken.
What Happens If I Miss All The Delivery Attempts And My Package Is Held At A UPS Access Point?
If you miss all UPS delivery attempts, your package will usually be held at a designated UPS Access Point, or sometimes a local UPS facility. You will receive notification of this, usually on the InfoNotice left after the last delivery attempt, or potentially through email or text if you have tracking notifications set up.
The holding period at a UPS Access Point is typically five business days. During this time, you can pick up your package by presenting a valid government-issued photo ID that matches the name on the shipping label. If the package is not claimed within this time frame, it will be returned to the sender, so it is crucial to retrieve your package promptly.
Can I Reschedule A UPS Delivery If I Know I Won’t Be Home?
Yes, you can reschedule a UPS delivery if you know you won’t be available to receive it. UPS offers several options for rescheduling, making it convenient to manage your deliveries according to your schedule. The easiest way is often using the tracking number on the UPS website.
You can reschedule online through the UPS website or app, or by calling UPS customer service. Options for rescheduling include specifying a different delivery date, holding the package at a UPS Access Point for pickup, or requesting delivery to a neighbor. Keep in mind that some options might not be available depending on the specific shipment.
What Is A UPS Access Point, And How Can It Help Me Receive My Packages More Conveniently?
A UPS Access Point is a designated location, typically a local business like a convenience store or grocery store, where you can pick up or drop off UPS packages. This provides a more convenient alternative to home delivery, particularly if you’re often not home during delivery hours.
UPS Access Points offer extended hours and weekend availability, making it easier to retrieve your packages at your convenience. You can have your packages redirected to a UPS Access Point directly from the UPS website using your tracking number, or instruct UPS to hold your packages there if a delivery attempt is unsuccessful. This ensures you don’t miss your delivery and provides a secure location for your package.
What Can I Do To Ensure Successful UPS Delivery And Avoid Missed Attempts?
To ensure successful UPS delivery and minimize missed attempts, there are several proactive steps you can take. First, ensure that your shipping address is accurate and complete, including apartment numbers or suite numbers, and any specific delivery instructions.
Secondly, sign up for UPS My Choice, which allows you to track your packages, receive delivery alerts, and customize your delivery preferences, such as rescheduling or redirecting deliveries. Finally, consider utilizing UPS Access Points if you frequently miss deliveries at your home address. By taking these measures, you can significantly increase the likelihood of successful and timely delivery.