Signature Required for UPS Delivery: What You Need to Know
If you’ve ever received a package from UPS, chances are you’ve had to sign for it at some point. But why does UPS require a signature for certain deliveries, and what happens if you’re not available to sign? In this article, we’ll answer these questions and more to help you understand what you need to know about signature-required UPS deliveries.
Why does UPS require a signature for delivery?
There are several reasons why UPS may require a signature for delivery:
- Ensure delivery to the intended recipient: By requiring a signature, UPS can verify that the package was delivered to the correct person, rather than being left at the wrong address or stolen off a doorstep.
- Valuable or sensitive packages: Certain types of packages, such as expensive electronics or medical supplies, may require a signature to ensure that they are only delivered to someone who can be trusted with them.
- Regulatory compliance: Some countries require a signature for customs clearance, and UPS must follow these regulations to ensure that packages are delivered legally and without delay. Additionally, packages containing hazardous materials or restricted items might require a signature to confirm that the recipient is aware of the contents and agrees to accept them.
Who is responsible for signing for a UPS package?
Typically, the person who receives the package is responsible for signing for it. This could be the recipient listed on the package, or someone who lives or works at the delivery address. In some cases, UPS may allow the intended recipient to authorize someone else to sign for the package in their place.
If no one is available to sign for the package, UPS may attempt to deliver it again on another day or hold it at a nearby UPS location for pickup. Alternatively, the recipient can also choose to sign up for UPS My Choice, which allows them to customize their delivery preferences and authorize UPS to leave packages at a specific location without a signature.
What happens if you are not available to sign for a UPS package?
If you are not available to sign for a UPS package, a few things can happen:
- Leave a notice: The driver may leave a notice with instructions for how to pick up the package at a nearby UPS location.
- Attempt redelivery: The driver may attempt to deliver the package again on a different day when someone is available to sign for it.
- Authorize release without signature: For certain types of deliveries, you can authorize UPS to leave the package in a secure location without a signature.
- Hold for pickup: You can request that the package be held for pickup at a UPS location by providing your tracking number and a valid ID.
If you do not take action to receive your package within a certain timeframe (usually 5-7 days), it may be returned to the sender. In this case, you may be responsible for any return shipping fees or other charges associated with the return.
How can you authorize someone else to sign for your UPS package?
If you won’t be available to sign for a UPS package, you can authorize someone else to sign for it on your behalf through the UPS My Choice program.
- Log in to your UPS account and select the “Change Delivery” option.
- Select “Authorize Shipment Release” and enter the name of the person who will be signing for the package.
- The authorized person must show a valid photo ID to the driver to receive the package.
Note that not all packages are eligible for shipment release authorization. Some packages requiring a recipient's signature, hazardous materials, or adult signatures cannot be released without the required signature.
Understanding the different types of UPS delivery services that require a signature
Not all UPS deliveries require a signature. Typically, only certain types of packages and services are eligible:
- Expensive or high-value items
- Packages containing sensitive or regulated materials
- Items for which the sender requests a signature
If a package requires a signature and no one is available to sign for it, UPS will attempt to deliver it again on the next business day or hold it at a nearby location for pickup.
Additionally, UPS offers a service called UPS My Choice®, which allows recipients to customize their delivery preferences, including having packages delivered to a different address, held for pickup, or rescheduled.
How to track your UPS package and know when to expect delivery
If you’re expecting a signature-required package from UPS, it’s important to track it so you know when to be available to sign for it. You can track your package through the UPS website or mobile app by entering the tracking number provided when the package was shipped.
Moreover, UPS My Choice offers additional features:
- Receive delivery alerts and updates
- Authorize shipment release
- Change the delivery date or location
UPS also offers a money-back guarantee for certain services, such as UPS Next Day Air and UPS Worldwide Express. If your package doesn’t arrive on time, you may be eligible for a refund of shipping costs.
Tips for ensuring a successful signature-required UPS delivery
- Ensure someone is available to sign for the package at the expected delivery time.
- Authorize someone else to sign if you know you won't be available.
- Use UPS My Choice to manage your delivery preferences and receive alerts.
Common reasons why a signature may be required for a UPS package
Aside from UPS ensuring safe delivery, there are other reasons why a signature may be required:
- Sender's request: Some senders request a signature for their own records or regulatory compliance.
- Contents: Packages containing alcohol, tobacco products, hazardous materials, or prescription medications may require a signature to ensure proper handling.
How to handle issues with a signature-required UPS delivery
If you encounter any issues with a signature-required UPS delivery, such as a missed delivery or a lost package, take these steps:
- Check the UPS tracking information for updates and instructions.
- Contact UPS customer service for assistance and provide your tracking number.
- Consider enrolling in UPS My Choice to manage future deliveries more effectively.
Overall, signature-required UPS deliveries are designed to ensure the safe and secure delivery of your packages. By understanding why a signature is required, who is responsible for signing, and how to authorize someone else to sign for your package, you can make sure that your deliveries go smoothly and without any hiccups.
