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How to Redirect a UPS Package: Your Definitive Guide

So, you need to redirect a UPS package. Life happens! Plans change, addresses shift, and that eagerly awaited parcel is now heading to the wrong location. Don’t panic! Redirecting a UPS package is often possible, but it hinges on several factors, primarily your authorization, the shipper’s restrictions, and the package’s progress. Here’s the core process: You can typically redirect your UPS package through UPS My Choice (if you’re a member), by contacting UPS Customer Service, or, in some cases, by having the shipper initiate the redirection. Let’s dive into the specifics and equip you with everything you need to successfully reroute your delivery.

Understanding UPS Package Redirection

Before we get into the “how,” let’s clarify what package redirection entails. Redirection isn’t just a simple flick of a switch. It involves intercepting a package already in transit and changing its destination. This requires coordination between UPS facilities, drivers, and, potentially, the shipper.

The ability to redirect a package depends on a few crucial things:

Your UPS My Choice membership: This is the most straightforward way for recipients to manage their deliveries, including redirection.
Shipper Restrictions: Some shippers, especially for high-value or sensitive items, restrict redirection to prevent fraud or loss.
Package Status: Redirection is easiest when the package is still early in its journey. The closer it is to the original delivery address, the harder (and potentially more expensive) it becomes to reroute.
Redirection Address: The new delivery address needs to be within the same country as the original address. UPS doesn’t typically offer international redirection.

Methods for Redirecting Your UPS Package

Here are the primary methods you can use to change your package’s destination:

Using UPS My Choice

This is generally the easiest and most convenient option. UPS My Choice is a free service that gives you greater control over your deliveries. Here’s how to use it for redirection:

Sign Up/Log In: If you don’t already have a UPS My Choice account, create one at UPS.com. If you have one, simply log in.
Track Your Package: Locate your package using the tracking number provided by the shipper or through your My Choice dashboard (if the package is automatically linked to your account).
Look for Redirection Options: If redirection is available for your package (and the shipper hasn’t restricted it), you’ll see a “Change Delivery” or “Delivery Options” button. Click it.
Select “Redirect to a UPS Access Point” or “Change Address”: Choose your preferred redirection method. UPS Access Points are convenient locations (like local businesses) where you can pick up your package at your convenience.
Confirm and Pay (if applicable): Some redirection options may involve a fee. Review the details and confirm your request.

Advantages of UPS My Choice:

Convenient online interface.
Ability to choose UPS Access Points.
Automatic tracking updates.

Disadvantages of UPS My Choice:

Requires registration.
Redirection may be restricted by the shipper.
Not all packages are eligible for redirection.

Contacting UPS Customer Service

If you don’t have UPS My Choice or are encountering issues with online redirection, contacting UPS Customer Service directly is the next best step.

Gather Information: Have your tracking number, original delivery address, and desired new delivery address ready.
Call UPS: Find the appropriate UPS Customer Service number for your region on the UPS website.
Explain Your Situation: Clearly explain that you want to redirect your package and provide the necessary information.
Verify Your Identity: UPS will likely ask for information to verify that you are the intended recipient or have the authority to redirect the package.
Follow Instructions: The UPS representative will guide you through the redirection process and inform you of any applicable fees.

Advantages of Contacting Customer Service:

Assistance from a live person.
Can help with complex redirection scenarios.

Disadvantages of Contacting Customer Service:

Potential wait times.
Requires direct communication.
Redirection is still subject to shipper restrictions and package status.

Shipper-Initiated Redirection

In some cases, you might need to have the shipper initiate the redirection. This is common for:

High-value items: Shippers often retain control over redirection for security reasons.
Restricted items: For items with specific shipping regulations, the shipper might need to handle the redirection.
Account-related issues: If the delivery problem stems from an error on the shipper’s side (e.g., incorrect address), they are best positioned to correct it.

To request shipper-initiated redirection:

Contact the Shipper: Explain the situation and request that they contact UPS to redirect the package.
Provide Information: Give the shipper the tracking number and the new delivery address.
Follow Up: Stay in communication with the shipper to ensure the redirection request is processed.

Advantages of Shipper-Initiated Redirection:

Necessary for certain types of shipments.
Can resolve issues stemming from shipper errors.

Disadvantages of Shipper-Initiated Redirection:

Requires coordination with the shipper.
Can be slower than other methods.

Important Considerations and Potential Challenges

Fees: Be prepared for potential redirection fees. The cost varies depending on the distance the package needs to be rerouted and the service level.
Time Sensitivity: Redirection can add time to the delivery. Consider whether the delay is acceptable.
Package Size and Weight: Very large or heavy packages might be more difficult (or impossible) to redirect.
Signature Requirements: If the original delivery required a signature, that requirement will likely still apply to the redirected delivery.
Address Verification: UPS will verify the new address to ensure it is a valid and deliverable location.
Limited Redirection Attempts: UPS typically allows only one or two redirection attempts per package.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some common questions about redirecting UPS packages:

1. How much does it cost to redirect a UPS package?

The cost varies based on factors like the distance of the redirection, the service level of the original shipment (e.g., UPS Ground vs. UPS Next Day Air), and whether you’re redirecting to a UPS Access Point or a different address. Check UPS My Choice or ask Customer Service for specific pricing.

2. Can I redirect a package to a different state?

Yes, as long as it is within the same country and allowed by the shipper. However, it’s crucial to remember that this redirection will likely incur higher fees and add more time to the delivery.

3. Can I redirect a package if it’s already out for delivery?

It’s more challenging, but not always impossible. Your best bet is to immediately contact UPS Customer Service. The sooner you reach out, the higher the chance they can intercept the package.

4. What is a UPS Access Point, and why would I want to redirect there?

A UPS Access Point is a convenient location, often a local business, where you can pick up your package at your leisure. Redirecting to an Access Point is useful if you know you won’t be home for the original delivery or prefer to pick it up on your own schedule.

5. How do I know if the shipper has restricted redirection?

When you attempt to redirect through UPS My Choice or Customer Service, you’ll receive a notification if redirection is prohibited by the shipper. It might say something like, “The shipper has restricted changes to this delivery.”

6. What if I don’t have a UPS My Choice account?

You can still contact UPS Customer Service to attempt a redirection. However, having a My Choice account simplifies the process significantly.

7. What if I don’t have the tracking number?

Contact the shipper! They should be able to provide you with the tracking number. Without it, redirecting the package is extremely difficult, if not impossible.

8. Can I change the delivery date instead of redirecting the package?

Yes! UPS My Choice allows you to reschedule delivery for a different day, even if you keep the same delivery address. This is a good option if you’ll be available on a different date.

9. What happens if my redirection request is denied?

If your redirection request is denied, the package will be delivered to the original address. You can then arrange for someone to receive it or contact UPS to explore other options like holding the package at a UPS facility.

10. How long does it take for a redirected package to arrive?

The delivery timeframe will depend on the distance the package is being redirected, the original shipping service, and the operational constraints of UPS. It will typically take an additional 1-3 business days.

11. Can I redirect a package back to the sender?

Yes, this is often possible. You’ll need to contact UPS Customer Service or the shipper to arrange for the package to be returned to the original sender.

12. What if I move after the package has been shipped?

If you have a mail forwarding service with the USPS, UPS might be able to redirect the package automatically. However, it’s always best to update your address with the shipper and UPS as soon as possible. In addition, it is advisable to sign up for UPS My Choice, which can help you avoid any potential problems.