UPS Delivery Attempted: What to Do When You Miss a Delivery

September 27, 2024
Written by
Anthony Robinson

Understanding the UPS Delivery Process

When you place an order with a retailer and select UPS as your delivery method, the retailer notifies UPS about the package destined for your address. UPS then generates a shipping label and schedules a delivery date, which is communicated to you by the retailer. On the scheduled delivery day, a UPS driver attempts to deliver the package to your specified address. If you’re not available to receive the package, the driver will leave a delivery notice detailing your options for obtaining your package.

UPS offers several delivery options to accommodate various schedules and preferences:

  • UPS My Choice: A free service that allows you to track your package and receive delivery alerts.
  • Hold for Pickup: Your package can be held at a UPS location for you to pick up at your convenience.
  • Reschedule Deliveries: Choose a specific date and time for delivery that suits your availability.

Reasons You Might Miss Your UPS Delivery

Several factors can lead to a missed UPS delivery:

  • Unavailable at Delivery Time: Being at work, running errands, or otherwise away from home during delivery attempts.
  • Incorrect Address: Providing an incorrect or incomplete address, such as missing apartment or suite numbers.
  • Access Issues: Difficulty accessing your delivery location, such as gated communities or locked apartment complexes.
  • Signature Requirements: Packages that require a signature upon delivery can’t be left unattended.

According to the Statista report, missed deliveries account for a significant percentage of delivery inefficiencies, highlighting the importance of accurate address information and convenient delivery options.

Tracking and Managing Your UPS Delivery

Tracking your UPS package is straightforward with the tracking number provided at shipment. Use the UPS Tracking tool on their website or the UPS mobile app to monitor your package's status in real-time.

UPS My Choice

By enrolling in UPS My Choice, you gain enhanced control over your deliveries. Features include:

  • Real-time delivery alerts via email or text message.
  • Ability to reroute packages to different addresses.
  • Options to reschedule deliveries to times when you’re available.

Options After Missing a UPS Delivery

Rescheduling a Delivery

If you miss a UPS delivery, you can reschedule it by:

  • Visiting the UPS Tracking page and entering your tracking number.
  • Selecting the option to reschedule your delivery to a more convenient date and time.

Redirecting Your Delivery

You can redirect your package to another address by:

  • Accessing the UPS tracking page.
  • Choosing the redirect option and entering the new delivery address.
  • Note that some fees may apply, and not all packages are eligible for redirection.

Holding a Package for Pickup

If you prefer to pick up your package personally, you can:

  • Select the "Hold for Pickup" option on the UPS tracking page.
  • Choose a nearby UPS location for pickup.

Ensure you bring a government-issued ID and your tracking number when picking up the package.

Preventing Future Missed Deliveries

To minimize the chances of missing future UPS deliveries, consider the following tips:

  • Provide Accurate Information: Double-check your shipping address for completeness and accuracy.
  • Use UPS My Choice: Take advantage of UPS My Choice to customize your delivery preferences and receive timely notifications.
  • Secure Delivery Locations: Ensure that delivery locations are accessible and not obstructed by gates or locked entries.
  • Schedule Deliveries Strategically: Align delivery times with your availability to receive packages in person.

What to Do If Your Package Is Lost or Stolen

In the unfortunate event that your UPS package is lost or stolen:

  • Contact UPS Customer Service: Reach out to UPS Customer Service promptly to report the issue.
  • File a Claim: If the package is insured, you can file a claim for reimbursement.
  • Notify the Sender: Inform the retailer or sender about the missing package so they can assist in resolving the issue.

According to UPS, most lost packages are recovered within a few days, so immediate action increases the likelihood of retrieval.

Common Reasons for Failed Deliveries and How to Avoid Them

Understanding the common causes of failed UPS deliveries can help you take proactive measures:

  • Incorrect Address Details: Always provide complete and accurate address information, including apartment or suite numbers.
  • Inaccessible Delivery Locations: Ensure that delivery access points, such as gates or apartment doors, are not obstructed or locked during delivery times.
  • Unavailable for Signature: If a package requires a signature, make sure someone is available to receive it or use UPS My Choice to authorize a signature on your behalf.

Tips for Ensuring Successful UPS Deliveries

To enhance the success rate of your UPS deliveries, implement the following strategies:

  • Provide Detailed Shipping Information: Include all necessary address details and any special instructions for delivery.
  • Enroll in UPS My Choice: Utilize the features offered by UPS My Choice to manage and customize your delivery preferences effectively.
  • Monitor Package Tracking: Regularly check the status of your package to anticipate delivery times and make necessary arrangements.
  • Secure a Safe Delivery Location: Designate a secure and accessible spot for package delivery, or consider using a UPS Access Point location for added security.

Utilizing UPS Resources

Leverage the tools and services provided by UPS to streamline your delivery experience:

By proactively managing your UPS deliveries and utilizing the available resources, you can significantly reduce the chances of missed or failed deliveries, ensuring that your packages arrive safely and on time.

About the Author

Anthony Robinson is the CEO of ShipScience, a pioneering company dedicated to helping e-commerce leaders optimize their shipping decisions, reduce costs, and automate tedious processes. With a Bachelors Degree in Economics from Stanford University, Anthony brings over two decades of expertise in logistics, business development, and operational efficiency to the table.
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