Can I Pick Up A Package From USPS Before Delivery?

Have you ever experienced a delivery delay while the package is at the nearest hub? It usually happens, and people frequently ask if they can pick up the package in case of any emergency. You might be traveling somewhere, or someone’s birthday is approaching, so you should focus on skipping the wait.

In this article, we will answer this question in detail and let you know the procedure. At last, you will get a smart bonus tip to protect your package from any damage or theft.

Can I Pick Up A Package From USPS Before Delivery

Yes, you can pick up the package from USPS before delivery, but you first need to know its current status. If the status shows it's at the post office, you can lodge a pickup request. If it says, Out for delivery then you should wait until the package gets delivered at your doorstep.

Your package is eligible for pickup until it's loaded onto the USPS truck and sent for delivery. USPS allows the relevant person to pick up the package by showing a valid photo document, such as a license or ID. You must also ensure that you have the correct address on the ID for verification.

There is also a possibility that you can call the USPS office early in the morning and request that they hold your package for pickup. Other options include the Hold for pickup and Package Intercept services, which can hold your package for pickup.

How To Pick Up a USPS Package Before Delivery?

The USPS offers a “Hold For Pickup” service that has proven to be one of the most beneficial options if you live in an apartment or have a complex address. Once you have lodged for pickup, your package will be held at the post office address that you have mentioned in the delivery authorization.

However, you must ensure that the parcel is in transit before lodging for the pickup. The sender can also select the self-pickup option before the shipping process. If the package is already in the post office, you should call them and ask to hold your parcel. Let’s see how you can lodge a pickup through the USPS website.

Step 1: Log in to your USPS account and enter the tracking ID.

Step 2: If it shows Delivery instructions in available actions, this means you are eligible.

Step 3: Open the dropdown menu of delivery instructions.

Step 4: Enter the local post office delivery address and click continue. If it shows “Your address is authorized,” it means you have entered the correct one.

Step 5: Choose the “Hold it at a post office” option and enter the correct Zip code. Click Continue to confirm the selection and hit Add to cart to submit your request. You can now pick up your parcel within 15 days of reaching the post office.

How To Make USPS Package Intercept?

USPS package intercept is a premium service, but you will remain eligible under the terms and conditions. First, you must ensure that the package is still in transit. In this service, you can return the package to the sender, hold for pickup, or change the delivery option, but at an extra cost.

Let’s see how you can intercept a package before delivery.

Step 1: Navigate to the USPS intercept page and log in with your credentials. If you don’t have an account, please make a new one.

Step 2: Enter the tracking ID and check your package status. If it shows In Transit, you are eligible for the interception.

Step 3: Open the dropdown menu of delivery instructions.

Step 4: Please authorize the address by entering the correct one. Enter the post office address where you want the package rerouted. Entering the wrong address may result in errors.

Step 5: Select Send it to a different domestic address (Extra charge) and enter the new address.

Step 6: Submit your request and wait for it to reach the new address. You will get an email regarding the successful shipping to the post office.

Bonus: Smart Security Solution For Package Protection

You often hear that the package is damaged or stolen from the doorstep. It is more common in areas with high theft percentages. Here’s how you can secure them.

• You can install a video doorbell that can detect parcels. It will track motion around the parcel and keep you updated about every activity. You can deter intruders and thieves through two-way audio.

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• Place a Sentinel Box to protect your parcels. Delivery persons can put the parcels in with a one-time passcode, and only the right person can get the parcel.
• You can also require an in-person signature to ensure someone takes the parcel and prevent it from being lost or damaged.
• Install motion-activated lighting on the front door or parcel delivery area. It will turn on automatically when someone is present and deter intruders.

FAQs

1. Can you pick up a package from the USPS distribution center?

No, USPS doesn’t allow individuals to pick up their packages from a USPS distribution center. It is usually against the policies for most of the logistics services. Here, sorting and transportation have been done; you can collect the package once it reaches your local post office.

2. Can I call the USPS and ask to pick up my package?

Yes, you can call them to request the package, but please make sure your package is not already out for delivery. It is recommended to call in early in the morning to avoid any issues.

3. How can I get my package faster from USPS?

You can get the package earlier by using the pickup service. However, in other cases, you can select priority mail for quick shipments and deliveries.

Conclusion

Picking up the package yourself saves it from getting damaged or stolen. It also eliminates the returned delivery issue due to the complex address. The pick-up service has made it convenient for individuals without requiring long waits. However, in the case of deliveries, it is recommended to install a video doorbell to protect your house and the package at the doorstep.