Are you eagerly awaiting a crucial package from USPS, but impatience is getting the better of you? The desire for a quicker receipt can often accompany the anticipation of a delivery.
So, when it comes to eagerly anticipated packages, the question often arises: “Can I pick up a package from USPS before delivery?”
Whether you’re tracking down a time-sensitive delivery or simply curious about the process, read this piece and discover a simple way to pick up a package from USPS before delivery now.
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Can I Pick Up A Package From USPS Before Delivery? Detailed Explanation
Yes, you can pick up a package from USPS before delivery. To pick up your package at the post office, you will need to bring a valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. You may also need to provide the tracking number for your package.
Picking up a package from USPS before delivery is a simple and common task. Millions of people do it every week across the country. There are two ways to do this: package intercept and package hold.
- Hold for Pickup: This is a free service that allows you to have your package held at your local post office for pickup. To do this, you will need to create a USPS account and provide your tracking number. Once you have done this, you can go to the Delivery Instructions page and select the Hold it at a Post Office option. You will also need to select a pickup date and time.
- Package Intercept: This is a paid service that allows you to redirect your package to a different location, such as a post office or a USPS retail location. To do this, you will need to create a USPS account and provide your tracking number. You will also need to pay a fee, which is based on the weight of your package and the distance it needs to be redirected.
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How Do I Start the Package Intercept Process?
To start the package intercept process, you will need to create a USPS.com account and provide your tracking number. Once you have done this, follow these steps:
- Go to the Package Intercept page.
- Enter your tracking number and click Submit.
- Review the information about your package and select the Intercept option.
- Select the location where you want your package to be redirected.
- Pay the intercept fee.
Once you have completed these steps, the USPS will attempt to intercept your package. If the package is intercepted, it will be redirected to your selected location. You will receive a notification once the package has been turned. If the package is not intercepted, you will not be charged the intercept fee.
Eligibility Requirements for Package Intercept in USPS
To be eligible for package intercept at USPS, your package must meet the following requirements: It must
- have a USPS Tracking® or extra services barcode.
- be addressed to a domestic recipient (APO/FPO/DPO addresses are excluded).
- be addressed from a domestic sender.
- not measure more than 108 inches in length and girth combined.
- not be out for delivery or already delivered.
- be addressed to you.
- not be marked as Adult Signature Required or Signature Required Direct.
- not be held for postage due.
- If you are intercepting a package for someone else, you will need to have their written authorization.
How to Input Your Tracking Number To Intercept a Package
To input your tracking number on the USPS website, follow these steps:
- Go to the USPS Tracking® website.
- Enter your tracking number in the search bar at the top of the page.
- Click the Track button.
Your tracking information will be displayed on the next page. If you are using the USPS Mobile app, follow these steps:
- Open the USPS Mobile app.
- Tap the Track tab.
- Enter your tracking number in the search bar at the top of the page.
- Tap the Track button.
Your tracking information will be displayed on the next page.
Approved IDs for Package Hold Request at USPS
The following forms of identification are approved for a package hold request at USPS:
- U.S. government-issued identification, such as a passport, driver’s license, or military ID
- State-issued identification, such as a driver’s license or non-driver ID
- Tribal-issued identification
- U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) permanent resident card or alien registration receipt card
- U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Access Card
- Matricula Consular de México (Consular Matricula of Mexico)
- NEXUS card (Canada)
- SENTRI card (United States and Canada)
- Global Entry card (United States)
Pros and Cons of Package intercept at USPS
Package intercept is a paid service that can be used to redirect your packages to a more convenient location. However, it may take a few days for your package to be redirected.
Before choosing to request a package intercept, consider the pros and cons fit below:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Can redirect your package to any USPS location, even if it is already out for delivery | Paid service |
| Can be useful if you need your package quickly or if you are not going to be home when it is scheduled to be delivered | May take a few days for your package to be redirected |
| Can be used to intercept packages that are addressed to someone else, if you have their written authorization | Cannot be used to intercept packages that are marked as Adult Signature Required or Signature Required Direct |
| Cannot be used to intercept packages that are being held for postage due |
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How To Request a Package Hold at USPS
Requesting a package hold at USPS is a free service. However, you can only request package holds for packages that are addressed to you. You cannot request package holds for packages that are marked as Adult Signature Required or Signature Required Direct.
Follow the steps below to request a package hold:
- Go to the USPS Hold Mail website.
- Sign in to your USPS account or create a new account.
- On the Hold Mail page, enter your tracking number and click Next.
- Select the Hold for Pickup option.
- Select the post office where you want to pick up your package.
- Select the start and end dates for your hold.
- Click Submit.
You will receive a confirmation email once your package hold request has been submitted.
Pros and Cons of Package Hold at USPS
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free service | May need to wait until the next business day for your package to be available for pickup |
| Convenient to pick up your package at your local post office | Cannot be used if your package is already out for delivery |
| Can be used to hold packages that are addressed to someone else, if you have their written authorization | Cannot be used to hold packages that are marked as Adult Signature Required or Signature Required Direct |
| Cannot be used to hold packages that are being held for postage due |
How long will USPS hold mail?
USPS will hold mail for up to 30 days. If you do not pick up your mail within 30 days, it will be returned to the sender.
You can request a mail hold online, over the phone, or in person at your local post office. To request a mail hold online, you will need to create a USPS account and provide your address.
Also, you can request a mail hold over the phone, you can call USPS customer service at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777). To request a mail hold in person, you can go to your local post office and speak to a postal employee.
However, if you need your mail to be held longer or to reroute your mail, please sign up for a forwarding service. You can make your request up to 30 days in advance or as early as the next scheduled delivery day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can request a package hold or package intercept to pick up a package before the scheduled delivery date.
Yes, use the package intercept service to request a change of delivery address at USPS.
USPS will hold a package primarily for 30 days.
Yes, you need proof of identification to pick up a package from USPS.
When your package arrives at the post office, it will be scanned and sorted. Packages are typically sorted by destination and by size and weight. Once your package has been sorted, it will be placed in a bin or cage to await delivery.
Conclusion
Awaiting delivery of a package at your doorstep can linger especially if you need the item for immediate use. USPS recognizes this and provides a means for you to walk into the post office and pick up your item before delivery.
Seeking clarity on “Can I Pick Up A Package From USPS Before Delivery? ” Read this detailed explanation to know how.
References
- Wikihow.com – Can I Pick Up My USPS Package Before Delivery? Your Questions Answered!
- USGlobalmail.com – Can I Pick Up a Package from USPS Before Delivery?
- Quora.com – How can I pick up my USPS package before it is delivered?
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