Does UPS Deliver to PO Boxes? Everything You Need to Know in 2025

You’re expecting a package, but there’s a catch: you only have a PO Box. Now you’re wondering: Does UPS deliver to PO Boxes? 

The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think.

Unlike USPS, which specializes in PO Box deliveries, UPS operates under different rules. So, what happens when you try to ship a UPS package to a PO Box? Does it get returned or does it sit in limbo? 

Does UPS Deliver to Post Office? 

No.

UPS does not deliver to standard PO Boxes. That’s because PO Boxes are managed by USPS, and UPS generally requires a physical street address for deliveries.

But that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. 

UPS offers two services that allow deliveries to PO Boxes in a roundabout way: UPS SurePost and UPS Mail Innovations. 

These services work by partnering with USPS for the final leg of the delivery. If you’re using a PO Box but still want to receive UPS deliveries, these hybrid services might be your best bet. 

Why UPS Does Not Deliver To PO Boxes?

UPS isn’t just being difficult, there’s a legal reason behind this policy. 

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has exclusive rights to PO Boxes, meaning private carriers like UPS and FedEx aren’t authorized to deliver directly to them. Since UPS operates independently of USPS, it requires a physical street address for deliveries. That’s why if you enter a PO Box as your shipping address with UPS, your package may be delayed, rejected, or require an alternative delivery method.

What happens if you ship UPS to a PO Box? 

If you try to ship a UPS package to a PO Box, it won’t get delivered. Instead, it’ll likely be returned to the sender. 

To avoid this, consider using UPS Mailbox Services, which assigns you a real street address for deliveries. Another option is UPS SurePost, where UPS hands off your package to USPS for final delivery to your PO Box. We will discuss this in more detail below.

Is There a Way To Receive UPS Packages at a PO Box? 

Yes, but not directly. While UPS doesn’t deliver to PO Boxes, services like UPS SurePost and UPS Mail Innovations offer a workaround.

UPS SurePost

UPS SurePost is a hybrid shipping service that combines the speed of UPS with the final-mile delivery of USPS. 

Here’s how it works: 

UPS handles the bulk of the shipment, transporting your package across the country. But instead of delivering it to your door (or rejecting a PO Box address), UPS hands it off to USPS for final delivery.

This service is often used for lightweight, non-urgent packages since it’s more cost-effective than standard UPS Ground. However, delivery times may be slightly longer due to the USPS handoff.

UPS Mail Innovations 

UPS Mail Innovations works similarly to SurePost but is geared toward bulk shipments and lighter packages. With this service, UPS processes and transports your package most of the way before handing it over to USPS for final delivery.

This service is often used by businesses and e-commerce retailers looking for an affordable way to ship high volumes of mail and small parcels. While it’s cost-effective, it’s not the fastest option. If speed isn’t your top priority, this can be a great way to receive UPS packages at a PO Box.

How To Shop to a PO Box Using UPS?

1. Choose the Right UPS Service: Select UPS SurePost or UPS Mail Innovations, which partner with USPS for final delivery. Alternatively, consider UPS Mailbox Services, which provides a real street address that can receive all UPS shipments.
2. Prepare Your Package: Follow UPS packaging guidelines to ensure your item is securely packed. Use a sturdy box, protective cushioning, and proper sealing to prevent damage during transit.
3. Address It Correctly: If using SurePost or Mail Innovations, enter your PO Box number in the address line. If using a UPS Store mailbox, provide the physical street address they assign to you instead.
4. Complete Shipping Documentation: Ensure all required labels, shipping forms, and documentation are correctly filled out. 
5. Pay for Shipment: UPS pricing depends on package weight, size, and speed. Some services may include additional fees.
6. Drop Off or Schedule Pickup: Bring your package to a UPS drop-off location, arrange for a pickup, or schedule a drop-off at a UPS Store.
7. Track Your Shipment: Use UPS tracking tools to monitor your package’s journey. Since USPS handles the final delivery, you may also need to check USPS tracking for updates.

Important Considerations To Keep in Mind When Shipping To PO Boxes Using UPS 

• Since UPS hands off the package to USPS for final delivery, expect a slight delay compared to standard UPS shipping.
• Availability can vary by region. Some remote or rural areas may not support these hybrid UPS-USPS services.
• PO Boxes aren’t designed for large packages, and UPS has its own weight restrictions for SurePost and Mail Innovations. Oversized shipments may be rejected or require an alternative delivery method.
• If you frequently receive packages from UPS, renting a UPS Store mailbox might be a better solution. 

In a Nutshell 

While UPS doesn’t deliver directly to PO Boxes, services like UPS SurePost and UPS Mail Innovations offer a way around this limitation by partnering with USPS for final delivery. However, factors like delivery speed, location restrictions, and package size should be considered. If you need a more flexible solution, a UPS Store mailbox might be the best option. 

Choose the right method based on your shipping needs!

FAQs 

Q: Does FedEx deliver to PO Boxes?
Ans: FedEx generally does not deliver to PO Boxes, except when using FedEx SmartPost, which works similarly to UPS SurePost by handing off the package to USPS for final delivery.

Q: Does USPS deliver to PO Boxes?
Ans: Yes, USPS is the only carrier authorized to deliver directly to PO Boxes. Since PO Boxes are managed by USPS, all standard mail and packages sent via USPS can be delivered there without issues.