UPS Tracking Status
UPS "In Transit: Delivery Date Pending" — Explained
Typical duration
1-5 business days before a delivery date is restored
Normal range
Delivery date gets updated within 2 business days
When to worry
No delivery date update for 5+ business days
What It Means
"In Transit: Delivery Date Pending" means the package is moving through UPS's network but UPS's system hasn't calculated a precise delivery date yet. This happens when there's a delay, re-routing, or the package is still several hubs away from the destination.
This status often appears during weather delays, mechanical issues, or when a package is rerouted through a different hub. UPS will eventually publish a new estimated delivery date once the package clears the holdup and a firm routing is established.
What To Do Next
- 1Check UPS's service alerts page (ups.com/service-alerts) for weather or system-wide delays.
- 2Wait 2-3 business days — most 'pending' states resolve on their own as the package moves.
- 3For time-sensitive shipments, call UPS at 1-800-742-5877 and request a trace.
- 4If the shipment is insured or has a guaranteed delivery date that's been missed, file a claim for a service-failure refund.
Frequently asked questions
Why is the delivery date 'Pending'?
Usually due to a delay at some point in the journey — weather, mechanical issue, backlog at a hub, or reroute. UPS's system removes the original date until it can calculate a new one based on current position.
Is the package lost?
No. Lost packages get a different status ('Package has not been processed' or 'We can't track this shipment'). 'In Transit: Delivery Date Pending' means UPS has the package and is moving it.
When will I get a new delivery date?
Usually within 1-2 business days. The date updates automatically once the package reaches its next sort facility and routing is confirmed.
Can I request a refund?
For UPS services with a money-back guarantee (Next Day Air, 2nd Day Air, etc.), yes — file at ups.com/claims if delivery is past the guaranteed date.
Related Tracking Statuses
Need to Create a New Shipping Label?
Free label maker for USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL. No account required.
Create a Label Free →