How to Ship a Package with UPS

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Last Updated: July 21, 2024 References

UPS is the world's largest package delivery company. The shipping process with UPS is simple and easy, as long as you follow the proper directions for sending your package. For example, if you protect the contents with the right box and cushioning, then your package is more likely to arrive safely. Also, checking that you’ve provided the correct address, whether domestic or international, labels, and method of delivery will ensure your package arrives in the correct location.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Assembling the Package

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Typically, packages are shipped in cardboard boxes. You can use your own, or purchase one from your local UPS shipping center. Find a box that can easily fit whatever you plan to ship with plenty of room leftover. The box shouldn’t swallow the item, but you should be able to fit cushioning into the box.^{[1]
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Cushion the contents of the package. Bubble wrap and foam “peanuts” are commonly used for cushioning. How much cushioning you use in your package largely depends on the what you are sending. For example, if you’re sending a book, using bubble wrap should be enough cushioning. If you’re sending something more fragile, like plates, you will probably want to place them in a smaller box and then use bubble wrap and foam peanuts.^{[2]
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- Shipping centers will often have free material for cushioning your package.
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Nylon reinforced tape or pressure-sensitive plastic, like a strong, clear tape, are good for sealing your package because they are less likely to come apart during the shipping process. You can purchase this type of tape at a packaging store. You can also pay a fee for the shipping center to tape up the box for you.^{[3]
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Certain items, like unusually shaped, very fragile, or very large objects, may be difficult to pack on your own. If you are unsure that you packaged the item safely, you can go to your local UPS shipping center to ask for help. They will know the most secure method for packaging your item.^{[4]
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Check that your item is not prohibited by UPS. Prohibited items will not be shipped by UPS. If they are shipped and inspected, then you will have to take full responsibility for the item. Prohibited items include:^{[5]
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- Illegal substances (such as marijuana)
- Fireworks
- Ammunition
- Hazardous waste
- Ivory
- Postage stamps

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Sending Packages

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UPS will ship to any valid street address, but they will not deliver to a P.O. box. Your package will be delayed or returned if it the address is incorrect or a P.O. box.
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Choose a domestic delivery service. If you are sending the package to an address within your country, then you will need to choose a domestic delivery service. Ask your local UPS center what your shipping options are, but typically, you will have several options for domestic deliveries:
- Next day air. This service delivers your package overnight. This is the fastest, but also the most costly option.
- 2nd day air. Your package will be delivered within 2 business days with this service.
- 3-day select. Your package will arrive in 3 business days. If you are located in the United States, it may take longer if your package is being delivered outside of the continental states.
- Ground delivery. Your package will be delivered within 5 business days. Again, this may take longer if you are sending the package outside of the continental United States. This is the least expensive option.
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Pick a delivery service for international shipments. International shipments have different delivery options than domestic shipments. Check with your local UPS center for all of your options. If you are shipping internationally, you can typically choose between a few options:
- Worldwide express. If you are shipping from the U.S. to Canada, your package will arrive the next day. If you are shipping to other countries, your package will arrive within 2 business days. Express is the most expensive option.
- Worldwide expedited. Your package will arrive in 2 to 5 business days.
- Standard. Your package could take a few weeks to a month to arrive at the correct destination. Standard is the least expensive option.
If you are shipping from home or dropping off your package at a UPS drop box, you will need to print the shipping label from home. The shipping label designates all of your delivery information, including the recipient and return addresses. You will also need to provide the weight and size of the package. If you are shipping at a center, you can wait until you get there to fill out your information.^{[6]
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Attach your shipping information. If you’ve printed out the shipping label, you will need to attach it to the top of your box. Clear plastic pouches can be picked up at a UPS center. Or, you can cover the label in clear tape to secure it to the center of the box. Make sure none of the shipping information has been obscured before sending the package out.
- It’s also an option to wait until you go to the shipping center to add some of the information, such as desired delivery service.
You may choose to schedule an at-home pickup by calling or using the UPS website, leave the package in a UPS drop box, or take it to a local shipping center. If you have any questions about shipping your package, it is best to go to a shipping center.
You can receive up-to-date information from UPS about where your package is and when it will arrive. Each package is assigned a tracking number that can be monitored at ups.com.^{[7]
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Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Making Additional Considerations

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This is especially important if you are shipping internationally. Unless you plan to pay for overnight shipping, do not wait until the last minute to send out your package, especially if it needs to arrive by a certain time. Ship the package out a few weeks prior to your preferred delivery date for extra security.^{[9]
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Items will sometimes be lost or damaged during the shipment process. If you are concerned about this, it is a good idea to get insurance on your package. Your package is already insured for free by UPS for up to $100, so choose insurance if the item is worth more than that price. The fee for insurance will depend on the item you are shipping, so it is best to ask an employee at your local UPS shipping center about your specific package.^{[10]
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The shipping cost can often be more than expected, especially if you are shipping internationally. If you are concerned about the cost of shipping, you can go to ups.com and use their shipping calculator. Enter all of your delivery information into the calculator, including the weight and size of the box, to get an estimate for shipping.^{[11]
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Certain items in certain countries are prohibited or require clearance. There also may other regulations for your international package, such as value limits and import/export documentation. If you are unsure about the regulations for the country you are shipping your package to, go to ups.com or contact UPS.^{[12]
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How can I get a label that shows where my package is going?

Community Answer

You can print one out online from the UPS website or go to a shipping center.

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Can you use a used box?

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Yes, just make sure any old shipping labels are peeled off or blacked out.

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Can you ship a paperback novel through USPS?

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Sure. Almost any small object can be shipped through USPS (or UPS).

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Tips

Remove all previous labels or shipment markings if you’re reusing a box or container.

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Shipping rates do not include non-routine customs brokerage fees.

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Warnings

Double check the shipping address before sending the item. The item may not be shipped to the desired location if the address is incorrect.

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Do not handle or ship illegal items.

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