When it comes to package deliveries, UPS has become a household name. Through its reliable final-mile deliveries and efficient route scheduling, UPS has managed to optimize productivity while minimizing costs over the years. Their trucks deliver millions of packages on a daily basis.

While most packages are delivered to doorsteps, some people may not be aware that a small portion of packages are collected directly from a UPS truck. While not recommended, as it can cause potential disruptions to the delivery process and the driver’s productivity, you can sometimes collect your package directly from a UPS truck.

In this article, we will briefly explore the reasons why recipients may consider this option and outline the steps involved in collecting packages directly from a UPS truck. We will also provide essential information to help you make an informed decision whether to collect it or to have it delivered to your doorstep.

Why Do Some People Prefer Picking Up Their Package Directly from the UPS Truck?

There are some instances where some individuals find themselves preferring to bypass the traditional delivery process and instead opt for the unconventional approach of picking up their package directly from the UPS truck.

Below, you’ll find some of the most common reasons why some people prefer collecting their packages directly from the delivery truck. 

Being in a Limited-Access Location

A key reason why some may prefer to pick up their package directly from the UPS truck is that their delivery address has limited accessibility. This might include office buildings, gates residences or communities, and even houses undergoing renovation.

These locations may pose challenges for delivery agents due to limited entry points, and security protocols. It’s common for recipients to either collect the package at the gate, entrance, or from the UPS truck directly.  

The Package Contains Items of High Value

Another reason why recipients might opt to pick up their package from the UPS truck is that it contains high-value items. Whether it’s valuable electronics, fragile artwork, or important documents, some people prefer the added security and peace of mind that comes with personally retrieving their high-value packages.

By taking control of the pickup process, they can ensure the safe handling and immediate possession of the package and its contents.

Due to Urgency

The last reason to bypass traditional doorstep delivery and instead opt to collect their packages directly from the UPS truck is due to the urgency associated with the package contents.

This is particularly true when the package includes time-sensitive items like medicine or other critical supplies. When every minute counts, waiting for a standard delivery may not be feasible. 

Reasons Why Collecting Your Package From a UPS Truck Is Not Recommended

Collecting your package directly from a UPS truck may seem appealing in certain situations, but it is generally not recommended due to several reasons. We’ve expanded on some of these reasons below.

  • Driver’s Security – UPS places a strong emphasis on driver safety, and collecting packages directly from the delivery truck can compromise their well-being. Opening the truck doors and interacting with individuals outside of their normal delivery routines can expose them to unfamiliar or potentially dangerous situations. 
  • Package Unloading Efficiency – Collecting your package directly from a UPS truck is also discouraged due to the potential impact on package unloading efficiency. UPS employs a meticulously planned system for loading packages into their trucks to optimize delivery routes and maximize productivity. By deviating from the established process and requesting a direct pickup, locating and retrieving your specific package can become time-consuming and challenging. This can lead to delays and frustration for both the driver and other recipients awaiting their deliveries. 
  • Scheduling Conflict – Requesting a direct pickup can introduce a scheduling conflict that can disrupt the established route and potentially cause delays in the delivery schedule. The driver would need to allocate additional time to accommodate the pickup, which can lead to a cascading effect, impacting subsequent deliveries and compromising the overall efficiency of the delivery network. 
  • Identifying The Correct Truck – Unlike a stationary drop-off location or a familiar delivery driver, locating the specific UPS truck can be a daunting task. It requires knowledge of the truck’s route, timing, and potentially even communication with the driver. This process can be time-consuming and inefficient, leading to potential delays.

How to Collect a Package Directly from a UPS Truck

There may be rare circumstances where individuals find it necessary or preferential to pick up a package directly from a UPS truck. Nevertheless, this alternative method of package retrieval should be approached with caution. If you need to collect a package directly from a UPS truck, here’s what you need to do.

  1. Track your package using the UPS tracking service and ensure you are available when the truck is out for delivery. Note that timing can be crucial for coordinating the pickup from the UPS truck.
  2. Keep an eye out for the UPS truck. Stay vigilant in your area, watching for the approaching UPS truck.
  3. When you see it near your area, wave to the truck and speak to the driver. Catch the attention of the driver and make sure you signal your intent to collect your package directly from the truck from a safe spot. 
  4. Approach the driver and politely explain that you would like to collect your package directly from the truck instead of having it delivered to your address.
  5. If the driver informs you that collecting the package directly from the truck is not possible, respect their decision and wait for the regular delivery to your address. However, if the driver agrees to your request, present a valid proof of identification and address to confirm your ownership of the package. Allow the driver to unload the package from the truck safely.
  6. Express gratitude to the driver for accommodating your request. Once the package is securely in your possession, you can return home.

Alternatives to Picking Up Your Package Directly From a UPS Truck

It’s important to note that there are alternative options available that offer convenience and reliability, compared to picking up your package from a UPS truck. Understanding these alternatives can help ensure a smooth and hassle-free package delivery experience. 

Waiting for Delivery to Doorstep

The standard and recommended method for receiving your UPS package is to patiently wait until the UPS driver arrives at your location as per their delivery schedule. 

Once the driver reaches your address, they will conveniently drop off your package at your doorstep or porch if recipients are not available. This ensures a seamless delivery experience without the need for direct interaction. 

Self-Collecting at UPS Location

For packages containing high-value items or those requiring urgent retrieval, an alternative option is to schedule a self-pickup at a designated UPS location. This allows you to choose a convenient pickup point and, with proof of identification, collect your package in person. 

Take note that you’ll have to arrange this beforehand. You won’t be able to request self-pickup when your package is already out for delivery.

Using UPS Delivery Intercept

An additional alternative to picking up your package directly from a UPS truck is utilizing the UPS Delivery Intercept service, which provides you with several options to modify the delivery of your package. These options include:

  1. Delivering to another address
  2. Delaying the delivery
  3. Holding the package for pickup
  4. Returning the package to the sender

You can follow the steps mentioned below to request an intercept from your shipping history. It’s important to note that you must request the intercept before the first delivery attempt is made.

  1. Log in to your UPS account to access your shipping history.
  2. From your shipping history, select the package(s) for which you need to request an intercept.
  3. Once you have chosen the appropriate package(s), you will be presented with different delivery change options to select from.
  4. To proceed with the intercept request, you will be prompted to provide additional information to ensure the request is properly submitted.

By following these steps and providing the necessary details, you can effectively initiate the UPS Delivery Intercept service to modify the delivery of your package according to your preferences.


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Gerrit Poel

Co-Founder & Writer
at freightcourse

About the Author

Gerrit is a certified international supply chain management professional with 16 years of industry experience, having worked for one of the largest global freight forwarders.

As the co-founder of freightcourse, he’s committed to his passion for serving as a source of education and information on various supply chain topics.