How to Intercept Third Party Packages with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery

May 14, 2023
Written by
Anthony Robinson
How to Intercept Third Party Packages with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery

How to Intercept Third-Party Packages with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery

If you need to intercept a package that is being delivered to a third party, UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery allows you to do so. Intercepting packages can be necessary for various reasons, such as preventing fraud, retrieving a package mistakenly delivered to the wrong address, or ensuring timely delivery. In this article, we will explore every aspect of intercepting third-party packages with UPS, including the steps you need to take and the associated costs.

Why Intercepting Third-Party Packages is Necessary

There are several reasons why intercepting a package being delivered to a third party may be necessary:

  • Preventing Fraud: If you suspect that a package is fraudulent, intercepting it can prevent unauthorized access to your goods.
  • Misdelivery Correction: Packages are sometimes delivered to incorrect addresses. Intercepting them ensures they reach the intended recipient.
  • Secure Deliveries: Ensuring that packages are delivered to secure locations or held for pickup can protect against theft.
  • Timely Delivery: Interception can help expedite the delivery process if a package is delayed or to accommodate the recipient's availability.

According to a UPS report, misdeliveries account for approximately 2% of all shipments, highlighting the importance of interception services.

Understanding UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery

UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery is a shipping service that guarantees delivery of packages within two business days. Available for both domestic and international shipments, packages are delivered primarily by air.

This service offers various options for package tracking and delivery notifications, enhancing shipment management. It is essential to note that UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery has specific weight and size restrictions:

  • Maximum Weight: 150 pounds per package.
  • Maximum Size: 165 inches in length and girth combined.

Certain items, such as hazardous materials and live animals, are ineligible for this service. For a comprehensive list of restrictions, visit the UPS website.

How to Sign Up for UPS My Choice

Before intercepting a package using UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery, you must sign up for UPS My Choice. This free service allows you to manage packages and deliveries online, offering features such as:

  • Real-time package tracking
  • Change of delivery locations
  • Delivery time specifications

To sign up for UPS My Choice:

  1. Visit the UPS website and click on the "Sign Up" button.
  2. Enter your personal information, including your name, address, and email address.
  3. Receive a confirmation email with activation instructions.

Once activated, you can start managing your packages, setting up delivery alerts, and rerouting packages as needed.

Using UPS My Choice to Manage Deliveries

With UPS My Choice, managing your deliveries becomes streamlined. Key features include:

  • Real-Time Tracking: Monitor your package's journey in real-time via the website or mobile app.
  • Delivery Notifications: Receive alerts when your package is on its way.
  • Change Delivery Location: Redirect your package to a different address if you're unavailable.
  • Delivery Options: Choose to leave your package in a safe location or require a signature upon delivery.
  • Schedule Deliveries: Adjust delivery times to better fit your schedule.
  • Follow My Delivery: View your package's exact location on a map in real-time.

According to UPS, users who leverage UPS My Choice experience a 20% increase in on-time deliveries due to the enhanced control over package management.

How to Request a Package Intercept with UPS

To intercept a package with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your UPS My Choice account.
  2. Enter your UPS account number and the tracking number of the package you wish to intercept.
  3. Select the desired action, such as redirecting to a new address or returning to the sender.
  4. Review and confirm any additional fees associated with the interception.

Alternatively, you can call UPS customer service to request an intercept.

Be aware that intercepts are subject to certain restrictions and fees:

  • No intercepts for packages already delivered.
  • Additional fees apply for redirecting to a new address.
  • Not all UPS shipping services support intercepts.

For detailed information on package intercept policies and fees, visit the UPS Package Intercept page.

Eligibility for Package Interception with UPS

Not all packages qualify for interception with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery. Eligibility criteria include:

  • The package has not yet been delivered.
  • The shipping service used supports interception (e.g., UPS Ground does not).
  • Compliance with customs regulations and legal restrictions.

Before attempting to intercept a package, verify its eligibility by contacting UPS customer service or reviewing the UPS shipping services that support package intercepts.

The Cost of Intercepting Packages with UPS

The cost to intercept a package with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery varies based on several factors:

  • Type of Package: Heavier and larger packages incur higher fees.
  • Destination: Redirecting to distant or international locations may increase costs.
  • Interception Type: Options like holding for pickup might differ in cost compared to redirecting to a new address.

On average, package interception fees range from $15 to $30, but it's best to consult the UPS Package Intercept page for precise pricing.

Interception does not guarantee success, especially if the package is already in transit or has been delivered. Always check the latest status through UPS tracking tools.

UPS provides various interception options:

  • Intercept before delivery
  • Redirect to a new address
  • Hold for pickup at a UPS location

Choose the option that best fits your needs and budget.

Tracking Intercepted Packages with UPS

After intercepting a package, you can track its status in real-time using the UPS My Choice website or mobile app. This feature provides updated delivery information and notifies you once the package has been redirected or returned to the sender.

Be aware that interception may result in additional fees based on the destination and the reason for the intercept. These fees are charged to the account used for the interception request. If the package has already been delivered to the original recipient, interception might not be possible.

For the most accurate and timely updates, regularly monitor your package status through the UPS Tracking system.

Refusing and Returning Intercepted Packages with UPS

If you decide not to accept an intercepted package, you can refuse delivery. When you refuse a package, UPS will return it to the sender. Additionally, if you intercepted a package by mistake, you can request its return.

Be mindful that refusing or returning a package may incur additional fees, which vary based on the package's size, weight, and destination. It's advisable to consult with UPS to understand the exact costs before proceeding.

If you've already received the package and wish to return it, UPS offers several return options:

  • Drop-Off: Take the package to a UPS location.
  • Pickup: Schedule a pickup by a UPS driver.
  • Return Label: Print a return label and mail the package back.

Return options may depend on the sender's policies and the type of package received. For more details, visit the UPS Returns page.

Common Reasons for Intercepting Third-Party Packages with UPS

Common scenarios that necessitate the interception of third-party packages include:

  • Fraud Prevention: Protecting against unauthorized receipt of valuable items.
  • Mistaken Delivery: Correcting deliveries made to the wrong address.
  • Secure Delivery Locations: Ensuring packages are delivered to safe and authorized locations.

Tips for Successful Package Interception with UPS

To ensure a smooth and successful package interception with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery, consider the following tips:

  • Verify Eligibility: Ensure that the package is eligible for interception based on UPS policies.
  • Accurate Information: Provide precise and up-to-date tracking numbers and account information.
  • Timely Requests: Submit interception requests as early as possible to increase the likelihood of success.
  • Monitor Status: Regularly check the package’s delivery status to confirm that the interception is proceeding as planned.
  • Understand Fees: Be aware of the costs involved and factor them into your decision-making process.

How to Avoid the Need for Package Interception

Preventing the need for package interception can save time and additional costs. Here are strategies to minimize the need for intercepting packages:

  • Accurate Addressing: Ensure that all shipping information is correct to prevent misdeliveries.
  • Trusted Senders: Ship with reputable senders to reduce the risk of fraudulent or incorrect shipments.
  • Secure Delivery Options: Utilize options like requiring a signature or using secure delivery lockers.
  • Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your shipments proactively to address any issues promptly.

Legal Implications of Intercepting Third-Party Packages

Intercepting third-party packages without proper authorization is illegal and can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and potential criminal charges. It is essential to:

  • Have Authorization: Only intercept packages that you are authorized to manage.
  • Valid Reasons: Ensure you have legitimate reasons for intercepting a package, such as fraud prevention or correcting a misdelivery.
  • Compliance: Adhere to all relevant laws and UPS policies when intercepting packages.

Unauthorized interception can not only result in legal repercussions but also damage your reputation and relationship with shipping partners.

Intercepting third-party packages with UPS 2nd Day Air Commercial Delivery can be a vital tool for managing your shipments effectively. By understanding the process, associated costs, and legal considerations, you can ensure that your package interceptions are handled smoothly and successfully.

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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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