How to Change Where USPS Delivers Your Mail

Yes, you can change your delivery address with USPS, but the method depends on timing and what you're trying to do

If a package is already in transit to your old address, USPS can redirect it to a new one — but you need to act before it arrives. If you're moving and want all your mail forwarded, you'll use the Postal Service's mail forwarding service, which takes a few days to set up. If a package hasn't shipped yet, you can sometimes cancel and reship it to the correct address through the retailer instead of dealing with USPS directly.

The fastest option depends on whether you're trying to stop a single package, forward everything during a move, or correct an address before an order ships. Each has a different process and timeline.

Key Takeaways

USPS can redirect a package in transit if you request it before delivery, but you'll need the tracking number and to file the request online or at a post office.
For a permanent move, use USPS mail forwarding (Change of Address), which costs money and takes three to five business days to set up.
If a package hasn't shipped yet, contact the retailer to change the address on the order rather than trying to redirect it after shipment.
USPS Informed Delivery can show you what mail is coming so you can catch problems before delivery day.

Redirecting a package already in transit

If your package is already on its way to your old address, you can file a Package Intercept request with USPS. This works only if the package hasn't been delivered yet. Go to USPS.com, click "Manage Delivery" under the Informed Delivery section, and select the package you want to redirect. You'll enter the new address and pay a fee — currently $1.10 per package, though this can change.

The request must be filed before the package reaches the delivery facility in your destination city. Once it's out for delivery that day, interception usually won't work. If the package has already been delivered to the old address, you'll need to arrange pickup there or have the recipient mail it to you.

If you don't have a USPS.com account or the package isn't showing in Informed Delivery, call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or visit your local post office with the tracking number. A postal worker can file the intercept request for you, though the fee still applies.

Setting up mail forwarding for a move

If you're moving to a new address permanently, use USPS Change of Address (COA). This service forwards your mail from your old address to your new one for a set period. You can set it up online at USPS.com, by mail, or in person at your post office.

Online is fastest: go to USPS.com, select "Mail & Packages," then "Change of Address." You'll need a valid ID, your old address, your new address, and the date you want forwarding to start. The service costs $1.10 for online filing (prices vary by method) and takes three to five business days to set up. Once active, USPS will forward mail addressed to your old address to your new one.

Forwarding lasts 12 months for residential moves. After that, mail sent to your old address will be returned to the sender. You can renew before it expires if you're still at the new address. Keep in mind that some mail — like packages from retailers — may not forward if the sender's system doesn't recognize the forwarding order, so notify important contacts (banks, employers, subscriptions) of your move directly.

Changing an address before an order ships

The easiest fix is to change the address before the retailer ships the package. Log into your account on the retailer's website, find the order, and look for an "Edit Delivery Address" or "Change Address" option. This usually works only if the order hasn't entered the shipping process yet — typically within a few hours of placing it.

If the option isn't available online, contact the retailer's customer service by phone or chat. Have your order number ready. Many retailers will change the address at no cost if the package hasn't shipped. Some will cancel the order and let you reorder to the correct address instead, which may be faster than waiting for a redirect.

This approach avoids USPS fees and is more reliable than trying to intercept a package after it's in the mail system.

What happens if a package is delivered to the wrong address

If a package arrives at your old address after you've moved, you have a few options. If you still have access to the old address (or a neighbor does), retrieve it yourself. If not, contact the retailer and explain the situation — many will reship at no cost if the package was delivered to an address you didn't authorize.

You can also file a claim with USPS if the package was misdelivered due to an error on their part, though this is different from a redirect. Contact USPS with the tracking number and explain that the package was delivered to the wrong address despite correct labeling.

Using Informed Delivery to catch address problems early

USPS Informed Delivery is a free service that shows you images of mail and packages coming to your address each day. Sign up at USPS.com with your address and email. You'll receive a daily digest showing what's arriving, which lets you spot packages headed to the wrong place before they're delivered.

This is especially useful during a move: you can see what mail is still coming to your old address and either redirect it or contact senders to update their records. It also helps you catch packages from retailers that used an outdated address from your account.

When to contact USPS directly versus the retailer

Contact USPS if the package is already in transit and you need to redirect it, or if mail is being delivered to the wrong address due to a forwarding issue. Contact the retailer if the package hasn't shipped yet or if it was delivered to an address you didn't authorize.

USPS handles the physical delivery system; retailers control what address gets printed on the label. If the label is wrong, the retailer usually needs to fix it. If the label is right but the package went to the wrong place anyway, USPS is responsible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to redirect a package with USPS?

Package Intercept costs $1.10 per package as of now, though USPS can change this fee. Mail forwarding (Change of Address) costs $1.10 for online filing, though prices vary if you file by mail or in person. Check USPS.com for current rates.

Can I redirect a package to someone else's address?

Yes, you can redirect a package to any address you enter in the Package Intercept request. The new address doesn't have to be yours — it can be a friend's, family member's, or business address. You'll still pay the intercept fee.

How long does mail forwarding take to start working?

USPS mail forwarding takes three to five business days to set up after you file. During that window, mail sent to your old address may still arrive there. Once active, forwarding works for 12 months unless you renew it.

What if my package is already out for delivery?

Once a package is out for delivery that day, USPS usually cannot intercept it. Your best option is to retrieve it from your old address if possible, or contact the retailer to arrange a reship or refund.

Will all my mail forward if I set up Change of Address?

Most mail will forward, but some won't — particularly packages from retailers, government mail, and items marked "Do Not Forward." Contact important senders (banks, insurance, subscriptions) directly to update your address in their systems.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.