If you are expecting a package from the United States Postal Service (USPS), you may want to get it as soon as possible, especially if it contains something important, valuable, or perishable. However, sometimes you may not be able to receive your package on the estimated delivery date, due to various reasons such as bad weather, delivery delays, or missed delivery attempts. In that case, you may wonder if you can pick up your package from the USPS before it is delivered to your address. The answer is yes, you can, but you need to follow some steps and conditions. In this article, we will explain how to pick up your package from the USPS before delivery, and what services and options are available for you.
What Services Can You Use to Pick Up Your Package Before Delivery?
The USPS offers several services that allow you to pick up your package before it is delivered to your address. These services include:
- Hold for Pickup: This service allows you to request that the USPS hold your package at a local post office or a designated location until you pick it up. You can use this service for domestic and international packages that have a tracking number. You can request this service online or by phone before or after your package is shipped. You will need to provide your tracking number and a valid photo ID when you pick up your package. There is no additional fee for this service.
- Package Intercept: This service allows you to redirect your package to a new domestic address or a local post office before it is delivered to the original address. You can use this service for domestic packages that have not been delivered or released for delivery. You can request this service online or by phone before or after your package is shipped. You will need to provide your tracking number and pay an intercept fee plus postage when you request this service.
- Hold Mail: This service allows you to request that the USPS hold all your mail, including packages, at your local post office for a period of time between 3 and 30 days. You can use this service if you are going away for a vacation or a business trip and do not want your mail to pile up at your address. You can request this service online or by phone at least one day before your departure date. You will need to provide your name, address, phone number, email address, and the dates of your hold request. There is no additional fee for this service.
How to Request These Services Online?
If you want to request any of these services online, you can follow these steps:
- Go to 4 and click on Track & Manage.
- Enter your tracking number in the search box and click on Track Package.
- On the tracking page, look for the Available Actions section and click on Delivery Instructions.
- On the Delivery Instructions page, choose one of the options: Hold it at a Post Office, Redirect it to a New Address, or Hold Mail.
- Follow the instructions on the screen to complete your request. You may need to sign in or create a USPS account if you do not have one already.
- Confirm your request and print or save the confirmation page for your reference.
How to Request These Services by Phone?
If you want to request any of these services by phone, you can follow these steps:
- Call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) and follow the prompts to speak to a customer service representative.
- Provide your tracking number and the reason for your call.
- Ask for one of the services: Hold for Pickup, Package Intercept, or Hold Mail.
- Provide the necessary information and payment (if applicable) for your request.
- Confirm your request and write down the confirmation number for your reference.
What Are the Benefits and Drawbacks of These Services?
These services can help you get your package sooner and more conveniently than waiting for delivery. However, they also have some benefits and drawbacks that you should consider before using them. Here are some of them:
Benefits:
- You can avoid missing or delaying your package due to weather, traffic, or other factors.
- You can have more control over when and where you receive your package.
- You can protect your package from theft, damage, or loss.
Drawbacks:
- You may have to pay extra fees for some services, such as Package Intercept.
- You may have to travel to a different location to pick up your package.
- You may have to wait in line or make an appointment to pick up your package.
What Are Some Tips and Tricks for Picking Up Your Package Before Delivery?
If you decide to use any of these services to pick up your package before delivery, here are some tips and tricks that can help you make the process easier and smoother:
- Check the tracking status of your package regularly to see if it is eligible for pickup or redirection.
- Request the service as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline or the availability of the service.
- Choose a location that is convenient and accessible for you to pick up your package.
- Bring your tracking number and a valid photo ID when you pick up your package.
- Check the hours and policies of the location where you pick up your package, and follow them accordingly.
- Contact the USPS customer service if you have any questions or problems with your request.