Don’t want packages left on your doorstep? A UPS Access Point lets you have deliveries sent to a secure local spot and pick them up on your own schedule — or drop off returns without a trip to a depot. Here’s how Access Points work, how to use them, and what to bring.
This is an independent guide. Locations, hold times and services vary — confirm on the official ups.com. We are not affiliated with UPS.
What is a UPS Access Point?
A UPS Access Point is a local pickup and drop-off location in the UPS network — usually a third-party business like a convenience store, pharmacy, grocery shop or The UPS Store, plus self-service UPS lockers. Staffed locations hold packages safely behind the counter; many lockers are accessible 24 hours a day.
Why use an Access Point?
- Security: nothing sits unattended on your porch — handy if you’ve had packages stolen.
- Convenience: collect on your schedule, including evenings and weekends at many spots.
- No missed deliveries: skip the back-and-forth of redelivery attempts.
- Easy returns: drop off prepaid returns and outbound packages.
Ways to use an Access Point
- Ship to one: at online checkout (or on ups.com), choose to deliver to an Access Point instead of your home.
- Redirect a package in transit: send an incoming delivery to an Access Point using UPS My Choice or the options on your InfoNotice.
- Drop off returns: bring labeled, prepaid packages to a participating location.
How to find a UPS Access Point
Use the location finder on ups.com (or pick one at checkout) to see Access Points near you, with their addresses and hours. When your package arrives, you’ll get a notification, and you can follow it anytime with our UPS tracking guide.
How long does an Access Point hold a package?
Packages are typically held for about five business days (in some cases up to around seven). If you don’t collect it in time, the package is returned to the sender — so pick it up promptly once you’re notified. Exact hold periods can vary by location.
What to bring to pick up
Bring your tracking number (or the arrival notification) and a valid government-issued photo ID — such as a driver’s license — that matches the name on the package. Some locations may ask you to sign for it.
Frequently asked questions
What is a UPS Access Point?
It’s a local UPS pickup/drop-off location — usually a shop like a convenience store, pharmacy or The UPS Store, plus self-service lockers — where you can collect or send packages.
How long will a UPS Access Point hold my package?
Usually about five business days (sometimes up to seven), after which it’s returned to the sender. Hold times can vary by location.
What do I need to collect a package?
Your tracking number or arrival notification, plus a valid government-issued photo ID matching the name on the package.
Can I send a package to a UPS Access Point?
Yes — choose an Access Point as the delivery address at checkout, or redirect an incoming package to one using UPS My Choice or your InfoNotice.
Related: UPS My Choice · UPS InfoNotice · UPS Tracking · Saturday Delivery.
