Tracking a delayed package can be frustrating. You’re eagerly awaiting an order, only to see the dreaded “delivery date will be provided as soon as possible” message on the UPS tracking site. So what gives? Here’s a breakdown of what this message means and what you can do about it.
Why You Might See This Message
There are a few key reasons UPS can’t provide an exact delivery date right away:
- High Volume – During peak times like the holidays, UPS sees a huge influx of packages which can cause delays. They need extra time to process the backlog.
- Bad Weather – Inclement weather like snow storms can slow down operations at UPS hubs and delay deliveries by a day or two.
- Operational Issues – UPS distribution centers can occasionally have equipment malfunctions or other problems that disrupt processing.
- Incorrect Address – If the shipping address is inaccurate, UPS needs time to figure out where the package should go.
- Customs Clearance – International packages require extra time in customs before final delivery.
What UPS is Communicating
The “delivery date will be provided as soon as possible” message is UPS letting you know your package is still in transit but they don’t have an exact delivery date yet. It has not been lost or forgotten about. They are working diligently to get the package routed and scanned so an estimated date can be provided.
This message simply means UPS needs a little extra time to deal with whatever issue is delaying your package and get back to you with a firm delivery date.
When to Start Worrying
As frustrating as the vague message is, try not to stress too much in the first few days after seeing it. Here are some general guidelines on when you should escalate:
- Domestic Packages – Follow up with UPS if the delivery date is still unclear after approximately 4-5 business days.
- International Packages – Wait at least a week before contacting UPS for an update. Customs can account for much of the delay.
Keep an eye on the tracking status each day. As soon as UPS has scanned the package and determined an estimated delivery date, the tracking status will update.
What You Can Do
If a reasonable amount of time has passed and your delivery date is still unknown, take action:
- Call UPS and speak to a customer service representative about your package. They may have additional information on the delay.
- Double check the delivery address is 100% accurate if you suspect an incorrect address is holding things up.
- Consider picking up the package at a local UPS access point if eligible once a delivery date is provided.
- Request package intercept if it’s urgent and you’d rather have it rerouted to a different address.
- Check the UPS website periodically for service alerts about weather delays or other issues that may be impacting operations in your area.
While the vague “as soon as possible” message is annoying, rest assured UPS is working to get you your package as quickly as they can. With a little patience and checking in periodically, your delivery date will be determined soon!
Key Takeaways:
- UPS uses the “delivery date will be provided as soon as possible” message when they need extra time to determine an exact delivery date.
- High volume, weather delays, operational issues, incorrect addresses, and customs can all contribute to the unknown delivery timeframe.
- It simply means UPS needs a bit more time to deal with any delays and route your package accordingly.
- Follow up with UPS if no delivery date is provided after 4-5 business days for domestic packages or 1 week for international.
- You can call customer service, double check the address, reroute the package, or pick it up once a date is determined.
