How to Change the Delivery Address for a USPS Package in Transit

You can change a USPS package address only if the mail hasn't been delivered yet, and the process depends on whether you know your tracking number

USPS allows you to redirect a package to a different address before it reaches the original delivery location. The fastest way is through USPS Informed Delivery or by calling the local post office that has your package. If you don't have a tracking number, you'll need to contact the sender to get one, or ask the post office to locate the package using your name and the original address.

The key limitation: USPS cannot change the address on a package that has already been delivered or is out for delivery that day. If the package arrives before you request the change, you'll need to refuse it or pick it up from the post office instead.

Key Takeaways

You need your USPS tracking number to change an address through Informed Delivery or by phone; without it, contact the sender or your local post office.
Address changes work only for packages not yet delivered; if it's already out for delivery that day, you cannot redirect it.
USPS Informed Delivery is the fastest self-service option and shows you which packages are coming to your address.
If you miss the window to redirect, you can refuse delivery or pick up the package at the post office and request a new label.
Some packages cannot be redirected if they contain certain items or require a signature; the post office will tell you if yours is one of them.

Using USPS Informed Delivery to change your address

USPS Informed Delivery is a free service that shows you incoming mail and packages before they arrive. If you're already signed up, log in to your account at informeddelivery.usps.com. Look for the package you want to redirect—it will show a tracking number and expected delivery date. Click on the package and select the option to change delivery or redirect it.

When you choose to redirect, USPS will ask you for the new address. Enter it carefully, including the apartment or unit number if there is one. The system will confirm the address and show you when the package will arrive at the new location. This process usually takes a few minutes, and you'll receive a confirmation email.

If you don't have an Informed Delivery account yet, you can create one at the same website using your email and address. It takes about five minutes to set up. Once activated, you'll see incoming packages within one to three business days.

Calling your local post office to redirect a package

If you don't want to use Informed Delivery or prefer to speak with someone, call your local USPS post office directly. You can find the phone number by entering your zip code at usps.com/locations. Have your tracking number ready when you call.

Tell the postal worker that you want to redirect the package and provide the new address. They will check whether the package is still in the system and can be redirected. If it can be, they'll update the address in their system. Some post offices will ask you to come in person to sign a form, especially if the package requires a signature on delivery.

The post office can usually redirect a package within 24 hours of your call, but timing depends on where the package is in the delivery network. If it's already at your local post office or out for delivery, they may not be able to change it—in that case, they'll suggest you refuse delivery instead.

What to do if you don't have a tracking number

If you received a package notification but don't have the tracking number, contact the sender or the business that shipped it. They can provide the tracking number from their records. Once you have it, you can use Informed Delivery or call the post office as described above.

If you can't reach the sender, call your local post office and give them your name and the original delivery address. The postal worker can search their system for packages addressed to you. This takes longer than using a tracking number, but it works if you know roughly when the package was shipped.

Refusing delivery and picking up at the post office

If the package has already been delivered or is out for delivery and you can't redirect it in time, you can refuse it when the mail carrier arrives. Tell them you don't accept the package, and they will return it to the post office. You then have a window of time—usually a few days—to pick it up and arrange a new shipping label to your correct address.

Contact the sender to request a new label, or ask the post office if they can help you create one. Some businesses will issue a refund instead if you refuse the package, so check their return policy before refusing. This option takes longer than redirecting, but it works if you've missed the redirect window.

Packages that cannot be redirected

Some packages cannot be redirected no matter when you request it. These include packages marked "Do Not Redirect," packages containing hazardous materials, and some packages that require an adult signature. If your package falls into one of these categories, the post office will tell you when you call or try to redirect through Informed Delivery.

Packages from certain government agencies or marked as official mail also cannot be redirected. If you're unsure whether your package can be redirected, call the post office with your tracking number and ask. They can check the package details in seconds.

Timing and what to expect

The sooner you request a redirect, the better your chances of success. Ideally, request it as soon as you know the address is wrong—don't wait until the delivery date. If you redirect within one to two business days of the original delivery date, USPS can usually process it before the package leaves the distribution center.

Once you've requested a redirect, the package will be rerouted to the new address. Delivery to the new location typically takes two to five business days longer than the original estimate, depending on the distance between addresses. You'll receive a new tracking update showing the new delivery address and revised delivery date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change the address if the package is already out for delivery?

Not through the normal redirect process. If the package is out for delivery that day, you can refuse it when the mail carrier arrives, and it will return to the post office. You can then pick it up and arrange a new label, or ask the sender to reship it to the correct address.

What if I redirect to an address and then move again?

You can request another redirect if the package hasn't been delivered yet. Contact USPS with your tracking number and provide the second new address. Each redirect adds a few days to delivery time, so this works best if you catch it early.

Does USPS charge a fee to change the delivery address?

No, redirecting a package through USPS is free. You don't pay anything to use Informed Delivery or to call the post office and request a redirect.

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

Yes, you can redirect to any address, including someone else's home or a business address. The package will be delivered to whoever receives mail at that address, so make sure the recipient knows it's coming.

What happens if I redirect and the package gets lost?

USPS is responsible for the package once you've requested a redirect. If it doesn't arrive at the new address within the expected timeframe, contact USPS with your tracking number and file a claim. Keep your redirect confirmation email as proof of the address change.

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.