These items include: hazardous material, alcohol, lottery tickets and gambling devices, explosives and fireworks, cigarettes, flammable items, drugs and drug paraphernalia, live and dead animals, poisons, perishable food items, blank money orders, pyrite, and any materials deemed to be dangerous, illegal, or non-mailable by federal, state, or local law.
Additionally, items that require special packaging and handling, such as fragile items and liquid, require extra fees and are best shipped through private services. Also, items that exceed certain size or weight requirements may not be shipped, or may require special handling.
What cannot be shipped by UPS?
UPS cannot ship any items that are hazardous, dangerous, prohibited, or restricted by law. This includes explosives, flammables, combustible materials, fireworks, poisons, corrosives, and aerosols. Additionally, certain animals, perishable items, or other items of high value, such as jewelry, cannot be shipped by UPS.
Finally, UPS will not handle any items that require special handling, such as live animals, dangerous biological materials, and human remains.
Can I ship anything with UPS?
Yes, you can ship nearly anything with UPS. They offer a variety of shipping options for different types and sizes of items, from parcels to freight, and same day delivery to international deliveries.
Some items, such as hazardous materials, live animals and plants, firearms, and food products may have restrictions or require additional paperwork. You must also abide by any applicable domestic and international laws and regulations.
Contact UPS for more information about shipping specific items.
Does UPS scan inside of packages?
Yes, UPS does scan inside of packages. Every package is scanned at least once as it moves through the UPS system. This provides shippers and receivers with tracking information and helps ensure packages are delivered to the right destination.
The barcode on the package is scanned using a special barcode scanner attached to a handheld device. This way, packages can be tracked throughout the entire shipping process. In addition to scanning packages, UPS also utilizes advanced scanning technology, such as three-dimensional scanning and radio-frequency identification (RFID), to further improve the accuracy and timeliness of package tracking.
UPS also provides shippers with up-to-date tracking reports that offer detailed information about a package’s current location and expected delivery date.
Can UPS ask what’s in your package?
Yes, UPS can ask what’s in your package, although they are not obligated to do so. Most of the time, they will only ask if they feel there is a need to. For instance, if a package has a declared value over $100, they will inquire about its contents.
If a package is considered to be “unusually heavy” or “oddly shaped,” they may also ask what’s inside. Additionally, UPS may need to know what’s inside in order to determine whether or not duties, taxes, or other fees need to be applied.
If a package contains a product that is prohibited from shipping, or an item that has shipment restrictions, UPS may also inquire about its contents.
Can you send food items through UPS?
Yes, you can send food items through UPS. UPS offers a variety of services to ensure the safe transport of food items, including Refrigerated Container Shipping, Temperature-Controlled Shipping and Insulated Blanket Wrapping.
All food shipments should be properly packaged and labeled according to UPS guidelines. If the temperature of your food shipment needs to be controlled during shipping, you should use a refrigerated truck, container, or insulated packaging material.
You can also choose to use ice or gel packs to maintain proper temperatures during shipping. Be sure to include any special instructions for handling on the label of your package. Additionally, you should include an “odor absorber” in your package with absorbent material, such as activated charcoal, to eliminate any potential odors.
When shipping food items internationally, be sure to familiarize yourself with country specific rules and regulations.
Is it cheaper to ship with UPS or USPS?
The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the size and weight of the package, the shipping distance, and the type of service you require. USPS (United States Postal Service) is generally the least expensive option for shipping, however rates vary.
Generally, priority mail is the most cost-effective option for USPS. Depending on the size, weight, and distance, First-Class Package will also be an affordable option for lighter items.
For packages too large for USPS, UPS (United Parcel Service) can be a more cost-effective option. UPS services range from Ground Shipping and 3 Day Select to Next Day Air, depending on your delivery needs.
UPS also offers additional discounts if you become a member. Furthermore, if your package has to be shipped overseas, UPS may be more cost-effective than USPS.
Ultimately, the best way to determine which option is the most cost-effective for you is to compare rates for the weight, size and distance of your package. You can do this by getting quotes directly through carriers such as USPS or UPS, or by using a shipping rate calculator.
Can I ship a mattress through UPS?
Yes, you can ship a mattress through UPS. UPS offers several shipping options for mattress shipments, such as the “oversized box” for larger items like mattresses and box springs. You will need to make sure your mattress is securely packaged so it won’t be damaged during the shipping process.
You will also need to choose the right box size and packing materials. Additionally, make sure to have your mattress professionally cleaned and inspected prior to shipping—this will help protect against any health or safety issues.
Once you have your mattress prepared, you can create a shipment label through UPS and schedule a pick-up or drop-off. UPS may even provide you with a reusable box, such as their Extra Large Box, and have a mattress expert come to your house to prepare and pack your mattress prior to shipment.
However, the cost of shipping a mattress through UPS may be quite expensive, so you should do your research and take the time to compare rates and prices from different companies to find the best deal.
Will UPS leave package if not home?
The answer to this question will depend on if you have chosen certain delivery options ahead of time or not. It is also possible that the delivery driver may be able to leave your package with a neighbor if they have previously provided authorization.
In general, however, if you are not home when the UPS delivery driver attempts to drop off your package, they will leave a notice with information about where the package can be picked up. This may be the nearest UPS facility or a local post office branch.
It is also possible that the driver may try to contact you to arrange a delivery time that would work for you or to see if there is a safe place to leave the package.
If delivery is attempted multiple times, the driver may return the package to the sender or return it to a UPS facility for later pickup, which could incur additional fees. It is also possible that the driver may opt to leave the package, usually at the driver’s discretion.
If you feel that the driver may have left your package, you can track your package with the UPS tracking number and search for the driver to see if they have left it somewhere.
Overall, it is best to make the appropriate arrangements ahead of time if you know you will not be home when a package is due to be delivered.
Does UPS charge by weight or size?
UPS generally charges by weight but also factors in size to some degree. Depending on the mode of shipment (UPS Ground, UPS Air, etc. ), rates are based on either the actual or dimensional weight of the package.
Actual weight is the physical weight of the package, while dimensional weight is calculated by multiplying the package’s length, width, and height. For most modes of shipment, a combination of both weights is used to determine the rate, with the heavier of the two being used.
For instance, if a package has an actual weight of 5lbs, but a dimensional weight of 10lbs, the rate is calculated with the 10lbs weight.
It’s important to note that there are size and weight limits for packages, depending on the mode of shipment. Packages over a certain size or weight may be subject to additional charges or may not be eligible for certain types of carrier service (i.
e. , UPS Ground vs. UPS Air). Therefore, it’s important to review the terms and conditions as well as the pricing information of each mode of shipment before selecting the service that best meets your needs.
How do I ship a package with UPS?
To ship a package with UPS, you will need to gather and prepare the necessary materials and information. You’ll need to have a box or other suitable container, packing material such as bubble wrap, packing tape, and a permanent marker.
You’ll also need to determine the size and weight of your package, and calculate the shipping cost based on your package’s size and final destination.
Once you’ve gathered the necessary materials, it’s time to start packing. Place your item(s) into the box or container and fill any extra space with adequate packing material. Seal the package with packing tape and write the address of the intended recipient on the box’s exterior in a clearly visible location.
Next, you will need to register your shipment with UPS. You can easily create a new shipment online, and you’ll need the package weight and dimensions, the address of the package recipient, and the payment information.
Once you’ve registered the shipment, you can print out the necessary shipping labels and attach them to the box.
Finally, drop off your package at any local UPS Store, drop box, or UPS pickup location. An agent will review the package and ensure that it meets all the requirements before the package is shipped.
How long can you leave a package at UPS?
The length of time a package can remain in a UPS facility will vary depending on the specific facility. Generally, packages are typically held for five business days before being returned to the sender.
However, if you are a customer who is able to provide identification and are able to pick up the package upon request, the package can be held up to 15 business days. It is best to contact the specific UPS facility where the package is being held in order to confirm the allowed length of time the package can remain in their facility.
Are liquids allowed to be mailed?
Yes, liquids are allowed to be mailed. However, the Postal Service does have regulations in place that must be followed when mailing liquids. According to the United States Postal Service (USPS), parcels containing liquids must not contain any items that are prohibited for mailing, such as noxious or hazardous items, and must be packed in strong, leak-proof containers such as plastic, metal or glass jars, bottles and tins.
The packaging also must have sufficient absorbent material like wax paper, paper towels or newspaper to absorb any liquid if a leak occurs. In addition, a double-sealing tape must be applied to seal the container and each taped area must be marked with the international “FRAGILE” symbol.
Further, it is important that the labeled boxes used for sending liquids are not overfilled and must be marked with the appropriate box size, the contents of the box, and the words “liquid,” “Fragile,” and “This Side Up.
” Depending on the contents of the box, additional documents or forms may also be required for mailing. For example, a hazardous materials shipping paper is mandated for mailing liquids that are poisonous, flammable, corrosive or unstable.
The USPS suggests that you contact your local post office for further information on mailing liquids or related products. They can provide you with the latest postage rates and information on how to properly package and ship your items.
Does USPS check packages for liquids?
No, the United States Postal Service (USPS) does not generally check packages for liquids. The USPS typically only checks packages for prohibited items, and liquids are not on the list of prohibited items.
However, if the package appears suspicious to a USPS employee they may take extra measures to check the package or open it to verify the contents inside, including the presence and type of any liquids.
Additionally, because liquids are not allowed on some international packages, if the package is being shipped internationally, the USPS may take extra steps to check the package for liquids before being shipped.
How do I send liquid through USPS?
You can send liquid through USPS, but it must be packaged and labeled properly, and you must follow certain regulations. Liquids can be sent in up to one gallon-sized plastic container, and all liquid contents must be completely enclosed in a leak-proof package and marked “Liquid” on the outside.
Container lids must be sealed securely with a good grade of film, string, or metal. Additionally, include a pack of absorbent material, like vermiculite or paper towels, to absorb any leaked liquids should the container break or leak.
Make sure to include a complete shipping address, return address, and USPS mailing label on the package as usual. USPS recommends marking the package “Fragile and Perishable” if it contains a liquid food item.
Keep in mind that USPS does not take responsibility for lost, damaged, or misplaced mail, including liquid mail. Therefore, if sending a liquid item or substance of any kind, always send it using a service that offers tracking and insurance.