UPS Tracking Status

UPS "Package Not Delivered" — Causes and Next Steps

Typical duration
Next delivery attempt is typically the next business day
Normal range
Normal — common for signature-required packages when recipients are not home during business hours
When to worry
Third failed delivery attempt — act quickly or the package will be returned to sender

What It Means

"Package Not Delivered," "Delivery Unsuccessful," or "We could not deliver your package" means the UPS driver attempted delivery but was unable to complete it. A delivery notice (InfoNotice) was left at the address with options for the receiver.

The most common causes: no one home to sign for a signature-required package, the address was inaccessible (gated community, no access code), the package was too large to leave unattended, or a wrong or unlocatable address.

UPS makes up to 3 delivery attempts, typically on consecutive business days. After the third failed attempt, the package is held at a UPS facility or Access Point for 5 business days before return to sender. The InfoNotice left at your door indicates which attempt this was and when the next attempt is scheduled.

What To Do Next

  • 1Find the UPS InfoNotice left at your door — it shows attempt number, next attempt date, and options
  • 2Use UPS My Choice (free enrollment at ups.com) to reschedule delivery, redirect to a UPS Access Point, or authorize package release
  • 3Call 1-888-742-5877 to speak with UPS and arrange redelivery or Access Point pickup
  • 4For a third failed attempt, the package moves to a UPS Customer Center or Access Point — pick it up before the 5-day hold expires
  • 5If the issue was address-related, contact the sender to update the address in UPS's system before the next delivery attempt

Frequently asked questions

How many delivery attempts does UPS make?
UPS makes 3 delivery attempts for most packages. The second attempt is typically the next business day, and the third follows the day after. After 3 failures, UPS holds the package for 5 business days before return to sender.
What is a UPS InfoNotice?
The UPS InfoNotice is the paper delivery notice the driver leaves when delivery fails. It contains a notice number (printed as a barcode or number), attempt count, pickup location, and instructions for scheduling redelivery or redirecting. You can use the InfoNotice number on UPS.com.
Can UPS leave my package without my signature?
If signature is not required, UPS can leave the package in a safe location. For signature-required packages, someone must be present. UPS My Choice members can issue a 'leave at door' authorization, which waives signature and authorizes UPS to leave the package.
I can't make it home for UPS delivery — what are my options?
Use UPS My Choice to redirect to a UPS Access Point (often a convenience store or Michaels/Staples location open evenings and weekends), reschedule for a Saturday delivery (if you have My Choice Premium), or authorize release without signature.

Related Tracking Statuses

UPS
Delivery Attempted
UPS
Out for Delivery
UPS
Delivery Rescheduled

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