Was Your UPS Package Transferred to the Post Office? Here’s What To Do!

While UPS is widely recognized for its reliable and efficient express service, not many people are aware of UPS SurePost, which is an economy service for packages. UPS SurePost consignments are handed over to the United States Postal Service (USPS) for the final delivery leg.

In this article, we will take a closer look into what notifications you can expect, the UPS SurePost service, and some of the best practices to follow when using this service. 

What Does This Status Mean & What Should I Do?

When receiving packages with UPS SurePost, you’ll receive an update that reads “Package Transferred to Post Office”, once your package has been handed over to USPS.

This also means that USPS is now in possession of your package and will plan the last-mile delivery to your address. Once you receive this update, you can expect to receive your package within the next few days.

Take note that UPS is no longer handling your package, although you will still be able to track updates from their website. This also means that you should reach out to USPS from now on, should any delays or issues arise with the delivery.

At this point, there is nothing needed from your side. It’s best to wait a few days until USPS delivers the package to your address.

Why Is My Package Transferred to Post Office?

Packages are transferred to the post office when the sender selected the UPS SurePost shipping service. When selecting this service, UPS hands over packages to the United States Postal Service.

In order for USPS to deliver your post, it has to be delivered to a nearby post office, so that they can receive, plan, and schedule the final delivery to the recipient.

Which UPS Service Allows Postal Delivery?

UPS SurePost is a cost-effective economy service offered by UPS for non-urgent, low-value business-to-consumer packages within the United States. The service provides a reliable seven-day-a-week delivery schedule, ensuring timely delivery of packages to recipients across the country.

UPS relies on the United States Postal Service to complete the final delivery to the recipient. This arrangement makes UPS SurePost a more affordable service than the regular express service.

However, it is important to note that UPS SurePost is limited to domestic shipments and does not support international deliveries.

How & When Will I Receive My Package After It’s Transferred?

After you get the notification “Package Transferred to Post Office”, you can expect to receive it within 1 to 4 days. UPS estimates an additional 1-2 days for the final delivery, but the actual time frame may vary based on the destination and the local delivery schedule of the U.S. Postal Service.

Advantages of Having Your UPS Package Transferred to the Post Office

There are several benefits that recipients can enjoy when selecting UPS SurePost. Let’s take a closer look at them.

• More Economical – While UPS SurePost has a slightly longer delivery time, it is highly cost-effective, allowing businesses and individuals to save on shipping costs. 

• Expansive Infrastructure – With its expansive infrastructure and extensive coverage, USPS boasts a robust last-mile delivery system, ensuring efficient and reliable delivery services for packages handed over by UPS through the SurePost service.

• Resource Distribution – The collaboration between UPS and USPS in the UPS SurePost service enables efficient resource distribution, especially during peak periods. By leveraging USPS’s workforce, UPS can effectively manage surges in package volumes, avoiding delays and bottlenecks in the delivery process

Best Practices

Here are some of the best practices you can use to optimize your UPS SurePost experience. We’ll cover this section from both the sender’s and recipient’s point of view.

For Senders

Some of the best practices senders should follow when using UPS SurePost include the following:

• Ensuring Good Packaging – Good packaging is crucial for UPS SurePost consignments, as packages go through various touchpoints and handling during the shipping process. Secure packaging safeguards the contents, reducing the risk of damage and ensuring successful delivery to the recipient.

• Informing Recipient – Informing the recipient about the decision to use UPS SurePost is essential to set proper expectations. Proactive communication fosters transparency and helps recipients prepare for the package’s arrival, ensuring a smooth and positive delivery experience.

• Managing Timelines – Make sure to send out packages early when using UPS SurePost. Factor in the additional delivery time involved in the transfer process to the local post office to ensure that packages arrive at their intended destinations within the desired timeframe.

For Recipients

If you are receiving a package through UPS SurePost, you can follow the best practices listed below to receive your package hassle-free. 

• Tracking Your Shipment – Tracking your shipment allows you to stay informed about its progress and identify any potential delays that may occur during the UPS SurePost process. It will also give you a clear idea of the expected delivery date and help you take necessary actions in case of any unforeseen delays.

• Making Yourself Available – If possible, be available during the expected delivery timeframe to receive the package, as it minimizes the risk of a failed delivery. You can learn about your parcel’s delivery time by tracking it.

• Offering a Secure Delivery Location – To facilitate a USPS delivery, designate a secure and accessible location for the package drop-off. For instance, you can place a delivery box near the front door, and provide clear instructions to leave the package underneath an awning or in a specific area protected from the elements.