How to Change Your Delivery Address on a UPS Shipment

Change your UPS delivery address before the package reaches the local delivery facility

You can change where a UPS package goes, but timing matters. UPS lets you redirect a shipment to a different address through their website or app, but only if the package hasn't arrived at the facility that will deliver it. Once it reaches your local delivery hub, the address is locked in. The fastest way is to log into your UPS account online, find the shipment, and request the change there — most redirects process within minutes if you catch the package early enough.

If you don't have a UPS account yet, you'll need to create one using the tracking number and the recipient's last name or ZIP code. This takes about five minutes and gives you access to all your shipments going forward.

Key Takeaways

Address changes work only before the package reaches your local delivery facility, which usually happens the day before or the morning of delivery.
You can change the address through the UPS website, the UPS mobile app, or by calling 1-800-742-5877, but the website and app are fastest.
If the package has already left the facility, you can refuse delivery and have it returned, then arrange a new shipment to the correct address.
Some address changes cost money — UPS charges a fee if you redirect to a UPS Store or UPS Customer Center instead of a residential address.
The sender can also request an address change on your behalf if you contact them quickly enough.

Change the address through your UPS account online

Go to ups.com and sign in with your UPS account. If you don't have one, click "Register" and create an account using your email address. Once you're logged in, click "Shipments" or "Track" in the top menu, then enter your tracking number in the search box.

When your shipment appears, look for a button or link that says "Manage Delivery" or "Redirect Package." Click it. You'll see options to change the delivery address, hold the package at a UPS location, or reschedule delivery. Select "Change Address," enter the new address, and confirm. The system will tell you whether the change is possible — if the package is already in local delivery, you'll see a message saying the address cannot be changed at this time.

Save the confirmation number that appears after you submit the change. UPS will send you an email confirming the new address within a few minutes.

Use the UPS mobile app for faster changes

read the UPS mobile app on your phone (available on iOS and Android). Sign in with your UPS account or create one if you don't have it. Tap the "Track" tab at the bottom of the screen and search for your tracking number.

Once the shipment appears, tap "Manage Delivery." You'll see the same options as the website: change address, hold at location, or reschedule. Tap "Change Address," enter the new street address and ZIP code, and confirm. The app processes changes when ready and sends a confirmation to your phone.

Call UPS customer service to change the address by phone

Call 1-800-742-5877 and have your tracking number ready. A representative will look up your shipment and ask you for the new delivery address. They'll confirm whether the change is possible based on where the package currently is in the UPS network.

Phone changes take longer than online or app changes — usually 10 to 15 minutes per call — because the representative has to manually enter the information. Use this method only if you don't have internet access or prefer to speak to someone directly. The representative will give you a confirmation number; write it down.

What to do if the address cannot be changed

If the package has already reached your local delivery facility, UPS will not allow an address change. In this case, you have two options: refuse the delivery when the driver arrives, or accept it and arrange to have it picked up later.

To refuse delivery, you must be home or leave a note for the driver saying "Refuse Delivery" with your name and the tracking number. The driver will take the package back to UPS. It will then be returned to the sender, who can ship it to the correct address. This adds several days to the overall delivery time.

If you've already accepted the package at the wrong address, contact the sender and ask them to file a claim or arrange a replacement shipment. Some senders will cover the cost of reshipping to the correct address, especially if the error was theirs.

Understand the fees for changing to a UPS location

Changing the delivery address to a residential or business address is free. However, if you redirect the package to a UPS Store or UPS Customer Center instead, UPS charges a fee — typically between $5 and $10 depending on the location and service level. You'll see the fee amount before you confirm the change, so you can decide whether to proceed.

Holding a package at a UPS location for pickup (without changing the original address) is usually free for the first five business days. After that, storage fees may explore. Check the terms when you request the hold.

Contact the sender if you need help

If you ordered the item and the wrong address was entered at checkout, contact the seller or shipper directly. Many retailers and shippers can request an address change on your behalf, especially if you reach out within a few hours of placing the order. This is sometimes faster than changing it yourself through UPS, because the sender has direct access to the shipment details.

Provide the sender with your tracking number, the original address, and the correct address. Ask them to confirm the change in writing (email is fine) so you have proof of the request. If the sender changes it, you'll receive a confirmation email from UPS showing the new address.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Usually not. Once a package is on the delivery truck, the address is locked in. You can refuse delivery when the driver arrives and have it returned, but changing the address at that point is not possible. Contact UPS when ready if you notice the wrong address — the earlier you catch it, the better your chances.

What if I change the address and then change my mind?

You can change it again through the same method (website, app, or phone) as long as the package hasn't reached your local delivery facility. Each change generates a new confirmation. Keep track of which address is current by checking your most recent confirmation email from UPS.

Do I need a UPS account to change the address?

You can change the address without an account by calling 1-800-742-5877, but creating a free account takes five minutes and lets you manage all your shipments online. You'll need the tracking number and the recipient's last name or ZIP code to look up a shipment without an account.

Will changing the address delay my delivery?

If you change the address before the package reaches your local facility, delivery usually happens on the original date or within one business day. If the new address is far from the original one, it may add a day or two. UPS will show you the new estimated delivery date after you confirm the change.

What if the new address is outside the UPS delivery area?

UPS delivers to most addresses in the United States, but some rural areas are served by USPS or other carriers instead. If you try to change to an address UPS cannot reach, the system will tell you it's not a valid delivery location. In that case, you'll need to refuse the original delivery and have the sender use a different carrier.

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.