Does UPS Deliver to PO Boxes? The Complete Guide
If you’ve ever tried to ship a package via UPS to a PO Box address, you’ve likely encountered some issues. Many customers wonder, “Can UPS deliver to PO boxes?” The short answer is no, UPS does not typically deliver to PO Box addresses. However, there are a few exceptions and workarounds which we’ll cover in detail.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore:
- UPS’s official policy on PO Box deliveries
- What happens if you try to ship UPS to a PO Box
- Options to get UPS packages delivered to your PO Box
- Best practices for UPS PO Box shipments
- Restrictions and limitations around UPS PO Box deliveries
By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to successfully receive your UPS shipments at a PO Box address. Let’s jump in!
UPS’s Official Policy on PO Box Deliveries
UPS has clearly stated in their policies that they only accept shipments addressed to real, verifiable street addresses. PO Boxes do not meet this criteria.
According to UPS, if a shipment is addressed to a PO Box, a few things can happen:
- The shipment may experience delays in delivery
- It will not be covered by any UPS service guarantees
- An address correction surcharge fee (around $21 ) may be applied
The reason? UPS uses advanced logistics systems that rely on accurate physical address data to optimize delivery routes and services. PO Box addresses simply don’t work with their infrastructure.
However, there are two exceptions to this rule:
- UPS SurePost – This is a hybrid service where UPS handles transit and the final delivery is made by USPS, who can deliver to PO Boxes.
- UPS Mail Innovations – Another UPS service leveraging USPS that allows delivery to PO Boxes, APO/FPO addresses, and more.
So while mainstream UPS Ground, UPS 3 Day Select, etc. won’t deliver to PO Boxes directly, there are still a couple options. But using them may incur extra fees or slower transit times.
What Happens When Shipping UPS to a PO Box Address?
If you accidentally (or intentionally) ship a regular UPS package to a PO Box address, a few different scenarios can play out:
Potential Delays – The UPS system will flag the address as undeliverable to their services. This can cause processing delays as the package gets rerouted or kept at a UPS facility.
Address Correction Fees – As mentioned, you’ll likely have to pay an address correction surcharge fee, usually around $21. This covers the costs of UPS attempting to resolve the delivery address issue.
Service Guarantee Void – Any UPS service guarantees for delivery time or money-back option are void when shipping to PO Boxes. This takes away the main value proposition of UPS’s premium services.
Delivery Failure – In some cases, UPS may simply return the package to the sender if they can’t validate a deliverable street address. This results in more delays and hassle.
To avoid these issues, it’s best to double check the shipping address during checkout if you plan to use UPS services. Catching a PO Box address early can prevent headaches down the line.
Getting UPS Packages Delivered to Your PO Box
Despite UPS’s default policy, there are still a few potential ways to get your packages delivered to your PO Box address. Each has its own process and limitations:
Option 1: See if Your Local Post Office Will Accept UPS Shipments
Some local post offices may be willing to accept UPS (and other carrier) packages addressed to your PO Box number. This requires approval from the postmaster, as it’s not an official service.
The process would look like:
- Address your UPS shipment to the physical street address of the post office
- Include your PO Box number on a second address line
- When UPS attempts delivery to the street address, USPS clerks can accept and place in your PO Box
Advantages: Potentially very convenient for getting everything delivered to one location (your PO Box).
Downsides: Many post offices will not offer this due to the added work for clerks. If approved, it may only be offered infrequently or for small shipments.
Option 2: Use an Alternate Physical Street Address
Since UPS requires an actual street address for delivery, you may be able to use:
- Your home address (if you have one but prefer a PO Box)
- A family member or friend’s home address
- Your workplace address
The biggest advantage is avoiding any PO Box issues with UPS’s system. However, this option is obviously less convenient than direct PO Box delivery. It also requires you to coordinate package receipt or pick-up from the alternate address location.
If using a home address, you can look into UPS delivery instructions like:
- Requesting signature confirmation
- Having it held at a UPS facility for you to pick up
- Asking for a specific delivery window when someone is home
These can help offset any security concerns with home deliveries.
Option 3: Use a Virtual Mailbox Service Like US Global Mail
Another popular workaround is to use a US Global Mail membership, which provides you with an actual street address for receiving packages and mail.
With this service, your packages are delivered by carriers like UPS to a physical US Global Mail address. Their staff then securely stores the packages in your private mailbox.
You can easily manage your shipped packages through US Global Mail’s online dashboard and request forwarding services. This effectively solves the PO Box delivery issue.
Other advantages include:
- Secure receipt of packages when you’re traveling
- Protection from bad weather and theft
- Mail holding and forwarding anywhere
- Check depositing services
For anyone frequently receiving shipments at a PO Box address, the US Global Mail virtual mailbox could be an ideal solution when UPS is the carrier.
Best Practices When Shipping UPS to a PO Box
Whichever option you choose, there are a few best practices to keep in mind for smoother UPS shipments to your PO Box:
Always Include Phone Number on Label – UPS may try to call you to update/validate the shipping address if flagged as a PO Box. Including your phone number makes this process easier.
Use Delivery Instructions if Shipping to Home – Take advantage of UPS delivery instruction options like:
- “Leave at front door”
- “Leave with neighbor”
- “Hold for pickup”
This gives you more control over home deliveries.
Check for Extra Fees – Be aware that there may be additional surcharges or fees for things like:
- Address corrections
- Using UPS SurePost service
- PO Box numbering issues
Factoring in these potential extra costs is important when shopping around for shipping rates.
UPS PO Box Shipping Restrictions
Even if you find a workaround for getting UPS packages delivered to your PO Box, there are still some limitations and restrictions to be aware of:
Size/Weight Limits Any oversized, overweight, or excessive packaging may be subject to additional fees. This applies to all UPS shipping, not just PO Box deliveries.
Geographic Service Limitations UPS’s network and service levels can vary in certain remote or rural areas. Delivery options and fees may differ.
Delivery Speed Differences Using services like UPS SurePost will likely mean slower delivery times compared to mainstream UPS Ground. Make sure to check delivery estimates.
As with any shipping carrier, it’s always a good idea to double check UPS’s latest policies and restrictions before sending anything valuable or time-sensitive. Proper planning prevents delays and issues.
Conclusion
While UPS does not provide direct PO Box delivery as part of their standard services, there are still a few options for receiving UPS packages at your PO Box address:
- Asking your local post office to accept shipments and place in your PO Box
- Using an alternate physical address like your home or workplace
- Signing up for a virtual mailbox service that provides a real street address
Each method has its own process, benefits, and limitations to consider. For frequent shippers, virtual mailbox solutions like US Global Mail offer the most convenient, secure PO Box delivery option.
No matter which route you take, be sure to follow UPS guidelines and check for any potential fees or shipping restrictions. With some flexibility and research, you can absolutely get those UPS packages successfully delivered to your PO Box!
