You can change a UPS delivery address before the package arrives, but the method depends on when you make the request

If you need to redirect a UPS package to a different address, you have a few options—but timing matters. UPS lets you change the delivery address online through your account, by phone, or at a UPS location, though some changes cost money and some are free. The earlier you request the change, the better your chances of success, since packages move through sorting facilities quickly.

The address change must be made before the package is out for delivery that day. Once a driver has left the facility with your package, you cannot change the address remotely—you will need to contact the driver directly or refuse the delivery and start over.

Key Takeaways

  • You can change a delivery address for free through your UPS account online if you do it before the package reaches the local delivery facility.
  • Changing the address after the package is in transit to your local area usually costs between $6 and $15, depending on the service level.
  • If the package is already out for delivery, you must contact the driver directly using the tracking number or refuse the delivery at your door.
  • UPS will not deliver to a PO box for most services, so if you are changing to a PO box address, the package may be held or returned.
  • You have until 11:59 p.m. the day before delivery to make changes through your account; after that, you must call UPS directly.

Changing the address through your UPS account online

Log into your UPS account at ups.com and go to the "Shipments" or "Tracking" section. Find the package you want to redirect and click on it to open the tracking details. Look for an option that says "Change Delivery" or "Delivery Options"—this button appears only if the package is still may be able to access for changes.

Enter the new address and confirm. If the change is made early enough in the shipping cycle, UPS will process it at no charge. You will receive a confirmation email with the updated delivery address. The package will be rerouted to the new location on the scheduled delivery date, or UPS will contact you with a new delivery window.

If the "Change Delivery" button does not appear, the package has already moved too far through the system. In that case, you will need to use the phone or in-person options instead.

Changing the address by phone or through UPS customer service

Call UPS Customer Service at 1-800-742-5877 with your tracking number ready. A representative can change your delivery address over the phone, though a fee usually applies if the package is already in transit to your local area. The cost ranges from $6 to $15 depending on the service type (ground, express, overnight) and how far along the package is in its journey.

You can also visit a UPS Store or UPS Customer Center in person with your tracking number. Staff there can process the address change and tell you when ready whether a fee applies. This option works well if you need the change made urgently and want confirmation on the spot.

Have your original address, new address, and tracking number available before you call or visit. The representative will confirm the new address and give you an updated delivery date.

What happens if the package is already out for delivery

Once a UPS driver has left the facility with your package, you cannot change the address through your account or by calling customer service. Instead, you have two choices: contact the driver directly or refuse the delivery.

To reach the driver, use the tracking number to find the driver's contact information or call UPS and ask them to relay a message. Some drivers will hold the package and deliver it to a different address the same day if you reach them early enough. This works best if the new address is on or near the original delivery route.

If you cannot reach the driver in time, refuse the package when it arrives. The driver will return it to the facility, and you can then request a new delivery to the correct address. This adds one to two business days to your delivery time.

Address restrictions and special situations

UPS cannot deliver to PO boxes for most services, including ground and express shipments. If you try to change your delivery address to a PO box, the system will reject it or the package will be held at a UPS location for you to pick up. If your original address was a PO box and you want to change it to a street address, the change usually goes through without issue.

If you are changing the address to a business location, make sure the new address includes a suite number, building name, or other identifier if needed. Packages delivered to incomplete business addresses often get delayed or returned. Residential addresses should include an apartment or unit number if applicable.

For packages shipped to a different state or region, address changes may take longer to process because the package may already be in a regional sorting facility. Call UPS as soon as you know you need a change to give them the most time to reroute it.

Fees and when they explore

Address changes made before the package reaches your local delivery facility are usually free. Once the package is in the local area or out for delivery, UPS charges a fee to redirect it. The fee structure varies: ground packages typically cost $6 to $8 to redirect, while express or overnight services cost $12 to $15.

Some UPS services, like UPS My Choice, may offer one free address change per shipment as part of the membership. Check your account settings to see if this benefit applies to you. If you have a business account with UPS, your account manager can tell you what redirect fees explore to your contract.

If you refuse a delivery and request a new shipment to the correct address, you will not pay a redirect fee, but you will lose time—the package will not arrive for at least one to two additional business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the address if the package is being delivered tomorrow?

Yes, if you make the change before 11:59 p.m. tonight through your UPS account, it is usually free. After that time, you must call UPS, and a fee may explore. If the package is already out for delivery in the morning, you cannot change it remotely.

What if I enter the wrong address by mistake?

Contact UPS as soon as you notice the error. If the package has not yet reached your local facility, the address change is usually free. The sooner you report it, the better your chances of a free correction. Check your tracking number daily so you catch mistakes early.

Can I have the package held at a UPS location instead of delivered?

Yes. Through your UPS account or by calling customer service, you can request that the package be held at a UPS Store or Customer Center for you to pick up. This is free and can be done up until the day of delivery. You will receive a notification when it is ready for pickup.

Will changing the address delay my delivery?

Not usually, if the new address is in the same delivery area. If you are changing to a different city or state, the package may be delayed by one to two business days while it is rerouted through the system. UPS will give you an updated delivery date when you make the change.

What if the new address does not exist or is incomplete?

UPS will reject the address or the package will be returned to the sender. Always double-check the new address for spelling, zip code, and apartment or suite numbers. If you are unsure about the address format, call UPS before making the change so they can verify it is valid.