Will UPS Call Me for a Signature? The Definitive Guide

The short answer is no, UPS generally does not call you directly to request a signature. However, that’s not the whole story. While they won’t pick up the phone, there are situations where a signature might be required, and UPS employs various methods to inform you about it. Let’s delve into the nuances of UPS signature requirements and how they communicate them.

Understanding UPS Signature Requirements

A signature requirement on a UPS package means that the driver needs someone at the delivery address to physically sign for the package before releasing it. This adds a layer of security, ensuring the package isn’t simply left unattended. The shipper (the sender of the package) determines whether a signature is required. They might choose this option for valuable items, sensitive documents, or anything they want to ensure is received by a specific person.

Here’s a breakdown of the common types of signature requirements UPS offers:

• No Signature Required: This is the default setting for many packages. The driver can leave the package at the door if it’s deemed safe.
• Signature Required: Someone at the delivery address must sign for the package.
• Adult Signature Required: The person signing must be 21 years of age or older and provide valid photo identification. This is typically used for alcohol or other age-restricted items.

How UPS Communicates Signature Needs (Without Calling)

While you won’t get a phone call from a UPS representative asking for your signature, UPS uses other methods to inform you if a signature is required for your delivery. Here are the key ways they’ll let you know:

• UPS Tracking: The most reliable way to find out about a signature requirement is through the UPS tracking system. Use the tracking number provided by the shipper to check the status of your package on the UPS website or app. The tracking information will often indicate if a signature is required.
• UPS My Choice: This is a free service offered by UPS that allows you to manage your deliveries. With UPS My Choice, you can receive alerts about upcoming deliveries, including notifications if a signature is required. You can even authorize release in some cases, which we’ll discuss later.
• InfoNotice: If a delivery attempt is made while you’re not home, the driver will leave a UPS InfoNotice (a paper slip) on your door. This notice will indicate that a signature is required and provide instructions on how to reschedule delivery or pick up the package at a UPS Access Point.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the signature process and address common concerns:

1. How do I know if my package requires a signature before it’s shipped?

Ideally, the shipper should inform you if a signature is required for your package. Check the order confirmation or shipping details they provide. However, you can also proactively use the tracking number they provide to check the UPS tracking system. The tracking information often indicates the signature requirement.

2. Can I waive the signature requirement after the package has been shipped?

Yes, in many cases, you can waive the signature requirement, but it depends on the shipper’s restrictions. Using UPS My Choice, you may be able to authorize release, allowing the driver to leave the package without a signature, even if one was initially required. However, the shipper might have specifically disallowed this option. If the shipper requires a signature, that is final.

3. What happens if I miss the delivery attempt and a signature is required?

The UPS driver will leave a UPS InfoNotice. You have several options:

• Reschedule Delivery: Use the InfoNotice or UPS My Choice to reschedule delivery for a day when you’ll be home.
• Authorize Release: If the shipper allows it, you may be able to authorize release online, allowing the driver to leave the package on the next attempt without a signature.
• Pick Up at a UPS Access Point: The InfoNotice will often indicate the location of a nearby UPS Access Point where you can pick up your package. You’ll need to bring a valid photo ID.

4. What is a UPS Access Point, and how does it work?

A UPS Access Point is a designated location (often a retail store, pharmacy, or other business) where you can pick up your packages. If you miss a delivery or prefer to pick up your package at your convenience, you can have it redirected to a UPS Access Point. You’ll receive a notification when your package is ready for pickup, and you’ll need to present a valid photo ID.

5. Can someone else sign for my package if a signature is required?

Yes, in most cases, anyone at the delivery address can sign for your package if a standard signature is required. However, if an Adult Signature Required is specified, the person signing must be 21 years of age or older and provide valid photo identification.

6. What if I live in an apartment building?

The UPS driver will typically attempt to deliver the package to your door. If you’re not home and a signature is required, they’ll leave a UPS InfoNotice. If your building has a concierge or mailroom, the driver may leave the package there, depending on the building’s policies.

7. Is UPS My Choice free to use?

Yes, the basic UPS My Choice service is free. It provides features like delivery alerts, the ability to track packages, and the option to authorize release in some cases. There is a premium version called UPS My Choice Premium that offers additional features, such as precise delivery time windows and unlimited free address changes.

8. What if I don’t want to sign for a package?

If you don’t want to sign for a package, the simplest solution is to waive the signature requirement if the shipper allows it, using UPS My Choice. If you can’t waive the signature, the package will be returned to the sender after a certain number of delivery attempts.

9. How long will UPS hold a package if I miss the delivery?

UPS will typically hold a package for 5 business days after the initial delivery attempt. After that, the package will be returned to the sender. Check the UPS InfoNotice for the specific date by which you need to pick up your package.

10. What kind of ID is accepted for Adult Signature Required deliveries?

For Adult Signature Required deliveries, UPS accepts valid government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or state-issued ID card. The ID must clearly show the recipient’s name and date of birth.

11. Can I change the delivery address after a package has been shipped?

Yes, with UPS My Choice, you can often change the delivery address of a package after it has been shipped, but there might be restrictions depending on the shipper and the destination. Address changes may also incur a fee if you have UPS My Choice Premium.

12. What happens if the shipper specifically requires my signature, and I’m not available?

If the shipper requires your specific signature, you’ll need to either reschedule the delivery for a time when you’ll be available or arrange for someone else who can legitimately act on your behalf (with proper identification and authorization, if needed) to sign for it. If you’re consistently unavailable, the package will eventually be returned to the shipper.