Demystifying UPS Delivery Attempts: A Comprehensive Guide

UPS, the behemoth of brown trucks, is a daily fixture in many of our lives. But what happens when you’re not home to receive that eagerly awaited package? Understanding their delivery policies, especially the number of delivery attempts, can save you a lot of hassle. Let’s dive deep and clarify this crucial aspect of UPS services.

UPS typically makes up to three delivery attempts for a package before it’s returned to the sender. These attempts usually occur on consecutive business days.

Understanding UPS Delivery Attempts: The Nitty-Gritty

While the core answer is three attempts, there’s more to the story. Several factors can influence this number and the overall delivery process. Knowing these nuances empowers you to proactively manage your deliveries.

What Happens After a Failed Delivery?

After a failed delivery attempt, UPS leaves an InfoNotice. This little slip of paper is your key to unlocking the next steps. The InfoNotice will indicate:

• The date and time of the attempted delivery.
• The reason for the failed delivery (e.g., no one was home, signature required).
• Options for rescheduling delivery, redirecting the package, or picking it up at a UPS Access Point.
• The date of the next scheduled delivery attempt.

The Importance of the InfoNotice

Don’t discard that InfoNotice! It contains crucial information for managing your package. Without it, tracking down your parcel and choosing the best course of action becomes significantly harder.

UPS Access Points: Your Alternative Delivery Hub

UPS Access Points are authorized third-party locations (often local businesses like pharmacies or convenience stores) where you can have your packages delivered for convenient pickup. This is an excellent option if you know you won’t be home for deliveries.

Factors Affecting the Number of Delivery Attempts

While three is the standard, exceptions exist:

• Signature Required: If the sender has specified that a signature is required for delivery, UPS will not leave the package without one. This often applies to valuable or sensitive items.
• Restricted Delivery Times: Some senders may request specific delivery windows. If these windows can’t be met, fewer attempts might be made.
• Delivery to Businesses: Business deliveries often have different protocols than residential deliveries. If a business is closed during multiple attempts, the package may be returned to the sender sooner.
• Unforeseen Circumstances: Inclement weather, traffic delays, or other unforeseen events can impact delivery schedules and potentially reduce the number of attempts.
• Specific Service Types: Certain specialized UPS services might have different delivery protocols. Check the specific terms and conditions of the service you’re using.

Tracking Your Package: Stay Informed

The best way to stay on top of your delivery is to utilize the UPS tracking system. By entering your tracking number on the UPS website or app, you can see the current status of your package, including scheduled delivery dates and any delivery exceptions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About UPS Delivery Attempts

Here are 12 commonly asked questions about UPS delivery attempts, designed to give you a complete picture of the process.

1. What happens if I miss all three delivery attempts?

   After three unsuccessful attempts, UPS will hold the package for a limited time (usually five business days) at a UPS facility. If you don’t pick it up or arrange for redelivery within this timeframe, it will be returned to the sender.

2. Can I request UPS to hold my package instead of attempting delivery?

   Yes, using UPS My Choice, you can request to have your package held at a UPS Access Point or a UPS customer center. This is a convenient option if you know you’ll be unavailable during the expected delivery window.

3. How do I reschedule a delivery attempt?

   You can reschedule a delivery online using the tracking number and the InfoNotice number. Alternatively, you can contact UPS customer service to arrange for a new delivery date.

4. Can I redirect my package to a different address after a failed delivery attempt?

   Yes, with UPS My Choice, you can often redirect your package to a different address, a UPS Access Point, or hold it for pickup. However, some restrictions may apply depending on the sender’s instructions and the package’s contents.

5. Does UPS deliver on weekends?

   Standard UPS Ground service generally does not include weekend delivery. However, UPS Saturday Delivery is an option in many areas for an additional fee. Check the specific service details to confirm availability in your location.

6. What time of day does UPS typically make delivery attempts?

   UPS delivery times vary depending on the route and workload of the driver. Deliveries typically occur between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM. However, there is no guaranteed time frame unless you’ve opted for a specific time-definite delivery service.

7. How long does UPS hold a package at a UPS Access Point?

   UPS typically holds packages at Access Points for seven calendar days. If the package isn’t picked up within that time, it will be returned to the sender.

8. What if my package requires a signature, but I won’t be home?

   You have a few options. You can sign the InfoNotice and leave it for the driver, authorizing them to leave the package without a signature (this waives UPS’s liability). Alternatively, you can reschedule the delivery or redirect the package to a UPS Access Point. With UPS My Choice you can authorize the release online.

9. Can I call UPS and request a specific delivery time?

   While you can contact UPS, requesting a precise delivery time is generally not possible with standard services. Time-definite delivery options are available for an extra charge.

10. What happens if my package is damaged during delivery?

    If you receive a damaged package, document the damage with photos and contact UPS customer service immediately. Keep all the original packaging, as UPS may need to inspect it. File a claim with UPS to seek compensation for the damage.

11. Is UPS My Choice free to use?

    UPS My Choice offers both a free and a premium (paid) membership. The free version provides basic tracking and notification features, while the premium version offers more advanced options, such as unlimited free delivery rescheduling and rerouting.

12. How can I prevent missed deliveries in the future?

    • Sign up for UPS My Choice to customize your delivery preferences.
    • Use a UPS Access Point for convenient pickup.
    • Communicate with the sender to ensure accurate address and delivery instructions.
    • Leave a signed note for the driver authorizing them to leave the package.
    • Consider alternative delivery services that offer more flexibility.

By understanding the UPS delivery attempt process and utilizing available resources like UPS My Choice, you can significantly improve your delivery experience and minimize the chances of missing your packages. Stay informed, be proactive, and take control of your deliveries!