How Many Times will USPS, UPS, FedEx Attempt Delivery?

When expecting deliveries from major carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx, it’s crucial to understand their policies regarding delivery attempts. Each carrier has specific procedures to ensure they make a reasonable effort to deliver your packages while accommodating different situations where recipients may not be home.

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USPS Delivery Attempts

USPS generally makes 1-2 delivery attempts, depending on the local carrier’s judgment.

• Ordinary Mailpiece: If someone is usually available to receive parcels but isn't present for the first delivery attempt, a second attempt will occur the next working day. Notably, no notification is left after the first attempt. If the second attempt also fails, a PS Form 3849 will be left, indicating that the parcel is being held.
• When Recipient Unavailability is Known: If the recipient is typically unavailable to receive parcels, PS Form 3849 is completed and left after the first attempt itself. Additional attempts are only made if the customer requests them.

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USPS Package Holding:

USPS holds packages at local Post Offices for a certain period:

• For Priority Mail and USPS Ground Advantage, the holding period is 15 days post the initial delivery attempt.
• Priority Mail Express packages are held for up to 5 days.

For detailed information on package holding and redelivery options, visiting the USPS website or contacting your local Post Office is advisable.

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UPS Delivery Attempts

UPS makes up to three delivery attempts, depending on the recipient’s availability. If the recipient is not home to receive their package, UPS leaves a delivery notice each time, informing them of the missed attempt and the next steps.

UPS may make delivery attempts on regular UPS delivery days, which include Monday through Friday and Saturday/Sunday in select areas, excluding UPS holidays.

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FedEx Delivery Attempts

FedEx makes up to three delivery attempts, particularly for packages that require a signature. If no one is available to sign for the package:

• A door tag is left at the recipient's door. This tag will indicate the pickup location, the business hours of the location, and when the package will be available for pickup.
• If a shipment requires an indirect, direct, or adult signature and cannot be delivered, FedEx may not automatically reattempt delivery. Instead, the package is taken to a nearby FedEx location, where the recipient can pick it up.

To manage deliveries more effectively, recipients can sign up for FedEx Delivery Manager, which allows them to request holding the package at a FedEx location. If you miss a delivery and receive a door tag, follow the instructions on the tag to ensure your package is delivered on the next attempt. 

For shipments requiring an indirect signature, you can sign electronically through the FedEx Delivery Manager app or on fedex.com. Direct and adult signature required packages must be signed for in person.

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Final Words

Understanding the specific delivery attempt policies of USPS, UPS, and FedEx can help you better plan for receiving your shipments and avoid the inconvenience of missed deliveries. Utilize carrier services and tools to keep informed and manage your deliveries effectively, ensuring you never miss out on receiving your packages.

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