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Will UPS Text You About a Package? Your Comprehensive Guide

The short answer is yes, UPS will text you about a package, but only if you’ve opted in to receive these notifications or if the sender provided your mobile number during the shipping process. Let’s dive into the specifics of how UPS uses text messaging and what you need to know to manage your deliveries effectively.

Understanding UPS Text Notifications

UPS understands the importance of real-time updates in today’s fast-paced world. Receiving a text message about your package can save you time and reduce the anxiety of waiting for a delivery. However, it’s crucial to differentiate between legitimate UPS texts and potential scams, which we’ll cover later.

How UPS Utilizes Text Messaging

UPS leverages text messages for various reasons, all aimed at improving your delivery experience. These include:

Delivery Notifications: The most common type of text you’ll receive is a delivery notification. This informs you that a package is on its way and may include an estimated delivery time.
Delivery Updates: If there are any changes to the delivery schedule, such as delays due to weather or unforeseen circumstances, UPS will often send a text message to keep you informed.
Delivery Exceptions: If the delivery driver encounters an issue, such as a closed gate or a lack of a secure location to leave the package, you’ll receive a text notifying you of the exception and any actions required from your end.
UPS My Choice Enrollment: After a package is shipped to your address, you might receive a text prompting you to enroll in UPS My Choice. This free service provides greater control over your deliveries.
Confirmation Texts: You may receive a text to confirm changes you’ve made to your delivery preferences through UPS My Choice or their website.

Opting In for UPS Text Notifications

The easiest way to ensure you receive UPS text notifications is to sign up for UPS My Choice. This free service allows you to manage your deliveries, track packages, and customize your delivery preferences. When you sign up, you’ll be asked to provide your mobile number and opt into text notifications.

Alternatively, the sender of your package may provide your mobile number to UPS when they create the shipping label. In this case, you might receive a text message even without being a UPS My Choice member. You can usually reply with “STOP” to opt out of these notifications.

Identifying Legitimate UPS Texts vs. Scams

Unfortunately, scammers often impersonate legitimate companies like UPS to steal personal information. Here’s how to spot the difference between a real UPS text and a phishing attempt:

Look for Tracking Numbers: Legitimate UPS texts will almost always include a valid tracking number. Verify this number on the official UPS website.
Avoid Clicking Suspicious Links: Be wary of links in text messages that ask for personal information such as your social security number, bank account details, or credit card numbers. UPS will not ask for this information via text.
Check for Grammatical Errors: Scam texts often contain typos and grammatical errors. Legitimate UPS messages are usually professionally written.
Contact UPS Directly: If you’re unsure whether a text is legitimate, contact UPS customer service directly through their official website or phone number.
Never Pay for “Delivery Fees” via Text: UPS will never ask you to pay delivery fees or other charges via text message. Any text asking for payment is almost certainly a scam.
Be Skeptical of Urgent Requests: Scammers often try to create a sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly without thinking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About UPS Text Notifications

Here are some commonly asked questions about receiving text messages from UPS.

1. How do I sign up for UPS My Choice to receive text notifications?

Visit the UPS website and create a free account. You’ll need to provide your address and other contact information. During the registration process, you can opt in to receive text notifications.

2. Can I customize the types of text notifications I receive from UPS?

Yes, through UPS My Choice, you can customize the types of notifications you receive. You can choose to receive alerts for delivery confirmations, schedule changes, and delivery exceptions.

3. What if I don’t want to receive text messages from UPS anymore?

You can opt out of receiving text messages from UPS by replying “STOP” to any text message you receive from them. You can also manage your notification preferences within your UPS My Choice account.

4. Is there a charge for receiving text notifications from UPS?

No, UPS does not charge for sending text notifications. However, standard message and data rates from your mobile carrier may apply. Check with your mobile provider for details.

5. What should I do if I receive a suspicious text message claiming to be from UPS?

Do not click on any links or provide any personal information. Report the suspicious text to UPS through their website or by contacting their customer service. You can also report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

6. What information will a legitimate UPS text message contain?

A legitimate UPS text message will typically include your tracking number, an estimated delivery date, and potentially a link to track your package on the UPS website.

7. How accurate are the delivery estimates provided in UPS text messages?

UPS strives to provide accurate delivery estimates, but they are subject to change due to various factors, such as weather, traffic, and unforeseen circumstances. Always refer to the tracking information for the most up-to-date details.

8. Can I track my package directly from a UPS text message?

Yes, most UPS text messages include a link that will take you directly to the UPS website or app to track your package.

9. What if I have multiple packages being delivered by UPS? Will I receive separate text messages for each?

Yes, you will typically receive a separate text message for each package being delivered by UPS, provided that the sender has your mobile number associated with each shipment or you have set up the notifications in your UPS My Choice account.

10. I didn’t sign up for UPS My Choice, but I received a text message about a package. Why?

The sender of the package likely provided your mobile number to UPS when they created the shipping label. UPS uses this information to provide delivery updates. You can opt out by replying “STOP.”

11. Does the UPS app provide the same information as text notifications?

Yes, the UPS app provides the same information as text notifications, and often more. You can track your packages, manage your deliveries, and customize your notification preferences within the app.

12. Are UPS text notifications available in all countries?

UPS text notifications are generally available in most countries where UPS operates. However, availability may vary depending on the country and local regulations. Check the UPS website for information specific to your region.

By understanding how UPS uses text messaging and how to identify legitimate notifications, you can take control of your deliveries and avoid falling victim to scams. Always be vigilant and prioritize your online security.