
Shipping packages to a PO box is a common practice, but it can be confusing if you're not familiar with the process.
UPS, or United Parcel Service, is a popular shipping option for sending packages to PO boxes.
The first step is to create a shipping label, which can be done online or at a local UPS location.
You'll need to enter the recipient's PO box address, which is usually in the format of "12345 PO Box 123, Anytown, CA 12345".
UPS offers various shipping options, including UPS Ground, UPS 3-Day Select, and UPS Next Day Air.
Each option has its own estimated delivery time, with UPS Ground taking 1-5 business days, UPS 3-Day Select taking 3 business days, and UPS Next Day Air taking 1 business day.
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Shipping to PO Box
Shipping to a PO Box can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I've got you covered. You can use UPS to ship to a PO Box, but you need to follow some specific steps and consider some important factors.
First, make sure you have the correct address format, including the PO Box number and the post office's street address. If you use the post office's street address with your PO Box number, some UPS packages may be delivered there instead of being returned.
UPS offers several services for shipping to PO Boxes, including UPS Mail Innovations and UPS SurePost Bound Printed Matter. However, UPS SurePost is not designed for PO box deliveries, as it relies on USPS for the final leg of delivery.
If you need to ship to a PO box, consider using alternative services like USPS Priority Mail or USPS First-Class Mail. These services offer 1-3 day delivery with tracking and insurance, or an affordable option for smaller packages (under 13 ounces), respectively.
Some important things to keep in mind when shipping to a PO Box with UPS: your package may be delayed, returned to the sender, or redirected to a local post office through UPS SurePost. However, you can also use MyUS, a freight forwarding service that allows international customers to ship packages to a US-based address and then forward them to a PO box.
Here are some reliable alternatives to UPS SurePost for shipping to PO Boxes:
- USPS Priority Mail: Offers 1-3 day delivery with tracking and insurance, suitable for faster shipments.
- USPS First-Class Mail: An affordable option for smaller packages (under 13 ounces), though delivery times may be longer.
- MyUS: A freight forwarding service that allows international customers to ship packages to a US-based address and then forward them to a PO box.
It's also essential to check if UPS offers service coverage for PO Boxes in your area, as availability may vary based on your location and the specific UPS service you choose.
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Shipping Process

Shipping to a P.O. Box with UPS requires some preparation and procedure. You'll want to explore the step-by-step process of shipping to a P.O. Box address using UPS, which involves necessary preparations and procedures.
UPS offers various drop-off locations where you can submit your packaged item for delivery to a P.O. Box. You can also learn about pickup options and scheduling.
To ensure a smooth delivery process, consider factors such as geographic limitations, delivery speeds, and package restrictions. Be aware of any weight and size limitations that may apply to P.O. Box shipments.
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Dropping Off Shipment
You can drop off your shipment at a UPS drop-off location, which offers a convenient way to submit your packaged item for delivery to a P.O. Box.
UPS has various drop-off locations where you can take your shipment, making it easy to get your package on its way.
To find a drop-off location near you, simply search online or check the UPS website for a list of nearby locations.
You can also schedule a pickup for your shipment, which is a great option if you have a lot of packages to send.
UPS will come to you to pick up your shipment, saving you time and effort.
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Delivery Address

If you're shipping a package with UPS, it's essential to know that not all addresses are created equal. UPS doesn't deliver directly to PO Boxes.
To receive a UPS package at a PO Box, you can use the USPS Street Addressing service, which allows you to receive UPS shipments at your PO Box by using the post office's street address and adding your box number.
UPS SurePost packages can't be delivered to PO Boxes, as it relies on USPS for the final leg of delivery, and USPS has specific restrictions regarding PO boxes.
However, there are alternative services that can help you ship to a PO Box, such as UPS Mail Innovations, which allows delivery to PO boxes for certain types of mail and packages.
If you need to ship to a PO box, consider the following UPS services:
- UPS Mail Innovations: Suitable for certain types of mail and packages, this service allows delivery to PO boxes.
- UPS SurePost Bound Printed Matter: Specifically designed for printed materials, it can accommodate PO box deliveries.
For more details, visit the UPS Alternative Delivery Options page.
Alternatively, you can use USPS services like USPS Priority Mail or USPS First-Class Mail, which offer 1-3 day delivery with tracking and insurance, and are affordable options for smaller packages (under 13 ounces), respectively.
If you're unsure about the best option for your PO Box delivery, it's always a good idea to check with UPS or USPS directly for the most up-to-date information and to ensure a smooth shipping experience.
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Package Details
Shipping a package to a PO Box can be a bit tricky. If a UPS package is addressed to a PO Box, it may be delayed.
UPS has a service called UPS SurePost that can redirect a package to a local post office if it can't be delivered to the PO Box. This can be a convenient option for senders.
Packages addressed to PO Boxes may be returned to the sender if UPS can't deliver them. This can be frustrating for both the sender and the recipient.
UPS SurePost is a good option for packages that can't be delivered to a PO Box, as it can redirect them to a local post office. This can save time and hassle for senders.
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Shipping Options
You can drop off your shipment at a UPS location and submit it for delivery to a P.O. Box. This is a convenient option, and you can also learn about pickup options and scheduling.
UPS offers P.O. Box delivery, but there are some essential considerations to remember. Understanding these factors will help you navigate potential challenges or limitations when shipping to a P.O. Box.
UPS SurePost does not deliver to PO boxes, so if you need to ship to a PO box, you have other options. Here are a few alternatives:
- USPS Priority Mail: Offers 1-3 day delivery with tracking and insurance, suitable for faster shipments.
- USPS First-Class Mail: An affordable option for smaller packages (under 13 ounces), though delivery times may be longer.
- MyUS: A freight forwarding service that allows international customers to ship packages to a US-based address and then forward them to a PO box.
If you don't have a physical street address, you can enroll in Street Addressing at your local post office. This will allow you to use the post office's street address with your box number to receive UPS deliveries.
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Shipping Options
Shipping to a P.O. Box can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I've got you covered. UPS offers P.O. Box delivery, but some essential considerations must be remembered.
You can ship to a P.O. Box using UPS, but you'll need to follow the step-by-step process outlined by UPS. This includes preparing your package and submitting it to a UPS drop-off location or scheduling a pickup.
UPS offers alternative services for P.O. Box delivery, including UPS Mail Innovations and UPS SurePost Bound Printed Matter. These services can accommodate PO box deliveries for certain types of mail and packages.
If your shipping needs include PO boxes, there are reliable alternatives to UPS SurePost, such as USPS Priority Mail and USPS First-Class Mail. These options offer flexibility and reliability for shipments requiring delivery to PO boxes.
Here are some alternatives to UPS SurePost for shipping to PO boxes:
- USPS Priority Mail: Offers 1-3 day delivery with tracking and insurance, suitable for faster shipments.
- USPS First-Class Mail: An affordable option for smaller packages (under 13 ounces), though delivery times may be longer.
- MyUS: A freight forwarding service that allows international customers to ship packages to a US-based address and then forward them to a PO box.
If you're unsure about which UPS service to choose, consider the package weight, size, and delivery speed. This will help you select the most appropriate UPS service for successful P.O. Box delivery.
Paying for Shipment
Paying for shipment can be a bit tricky, especially when shipping to a P.O. Box address with UPS.
UPS offers various payment options for shipping, including online payment, in-person payment, and payment by phone.
If you're shipping to a P.O. Box address, you can expect to pay the standard UPS rates, plus any potential surcharges that may apply.
UPS will automatically calculate the shipping fee based on the weight and dimensions of your package, so you can get an estimate of the costs before you pay.
To avoid any unexpected fees, make sure to check the UPS website for any special handling or fuel surcharges that may apply to your shipment.
USPS and Partnerships
FedEx has partnered with USPS for PO Box deliveries, using the SmartPost service to reach more places and deliver packages on time.
This partnership allows FedEx to leverage USPS's extensive network and reach PO boxes that might be difficult for FedEx to access on its own.
USPS also has alternative delivery options for PO boxes, including UPS services like UPS Mail Innovations and UPS SurePost Bound Printed Matter.
These services are specifically designed for certain types of mail and packages, and can accommodate PO box deliveries.
Here are some UPS services that can deliver to PO boxes:
- UPS Mail Innovations: Suitable for certain types of mail and packages
- UPS SurePost Bound Printed Matter: Specifically designed for printed materials
SurePost and Delivery
UPS SurePost is a service that partners with USPS for final delivery. It's a convenient option for shipping to PO Boxes, as UPS transports the package most of the way and USPS delivers it to the address.
With UPS SurePost, you can expect a cost-effective solution for shipping packages to PO Boxes. This service is a great option for businesses and individuals who need to send packages to PO Box addresses regularly.
UPS SurePost is a reliable service that ensures your packages arrive at their destination. It's a great alternative to traditional UPS services, especially for PO Box delivery.
Keep in mind that UPS SurePost is only available for packages weighing up to 70 pounds. This is an important consideration if you plan on using this service for larger packages.
Delivery Considerations
UPS Services and P.O. Box Delivery can be a bit tricky, but it's essential to consider a few things before shipping to a P.O. Box.
UPS offers various services tailored to different shipping needs, but the options may vary when it comes to P.O. Box addresses.
UPS Access Point locations and mailbox services through The UPS Store are a great alternative to P.O. Box delivery, where packages can be delivered securely.
If you use the post office's street address with your box number, you can receive UPS deliveries instead of having them returned.
UPS recently ended a contract with the United States Postal Service, which affects P.O. Box users.
The U.S. Postal Service is the only carrier permitted to deliver to P.O boxes, Army Posts, and Navy fleets.
For individuals with P.O. Boxes, UPS requires a physical address for delivery, making it essential to have a valid street address.
If you don't have a valid street address, UPS recommends using a UPS store mailbox as a viable option.
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Receiving Packages
You can receive UPS packages at a PO Box using the USPS Street Addressing service, which allows you to use the post office's street address and add your box number.
This service is a game-changer for those who want to receive UPS shipments at their PO Box.
USPS Delivery Changes
The U.S. Postal Service is the only carrier permitted to deliver to P.O boxes, Army Posts and Navy fleets.
UPS will no longer deliver packages to post offices for individuals with P.O boxes.
With the termination of the contract between UPS and the U.S. Postal Service, customers will have to ship their packages directly to a U.S. location or physical address.
UPS requires a physical address for delivery, making it impossible for them to deliver to P.O boxes.
For individuals who do not have a valid street address, UPS recommends using a UPS store mailbox as a viable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a UPS PO Box cost?
UPS PO Box costs vary by size: small ($10-$30/month), medium ($20-$40/month), and large ($30-$50/month). Check the specific pricing for your needs to learn more.
Can I deliver something directly to a PO Box?
Direct delivery to PO Boxes is only possible with USPS, but FedEx SmartPost is an alternative option under certain circumstances
Why did UPS stop delivering to PO Boxes?
UPS doesn't deliver to PO boxes because they require a physical address for delivery. This is due to their delivery method, which relies on trucks and personnel to transport packages to a specific location.
Sources
- https://ehub.com/blog/does-ups-ship-to-po-boxes/
- https://ehub.com/blog/ups-delivery-to-po-box-everything-you-need-to-know/
- https://www.shipscience.com/does-ups-surepost-deliver-to-po-boxes-bc3cb/
- https://parcelpath.com/can-ups-deliver-to-a-po-box/
- https://www.masslive.com/news/2025/01/usps-and-ups-delivery-changes-heres-how-it-affects-po-box-users.html
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