How To Ship a Package

New to shipping or need a refresher? Learn how to ship a package with UPS from these easy steps.

Get Your Package Ready

First things first - you need to pack your items in a sturdy box. Be sure to remove any old shipping labels if you're reusing a box from a previous shipment. If you don’t have one, you can order supplies online or buy one at The UPS Store.

Seal your box with plastic or nylon tape at least two inches wide. Don’t use duct tape.
Wrap items separately and use cushioning material. Get packaging tips.
Keep in mind, there are additional rules for special-care and prohibited items.
You’ll need to know the dimensions and weight of your box.

Help! I don’t know how to weigh my package.

You have two options:

Weigh yourself while holding the package, and then weigh yourself alone. Subtract one from the other; or
Use our flat rate shipping. You don’t need to know the weight of the package at all.

Create a Shipping Label

You could always take your package to The UPS Store, but it’s easy to make a label online*, too. You can:

Choose how fast you want your package to arrive.
See how much it will cost.
Pay by card or PayPal, or pay in store at a UPS location.
*Prices and product offerings may vary from The UPS Store and other retail locations.

Create a Shipment

Help! I don’t have a printer.

If you don’t have a printer, you can always:

Scan and print by mobile barcode at a UPS location; or
Email the label and print it later.

We’ll Do the Rest

Almost done! You’ve got three options to get your package to UPS:

We can come to you (for an additional fee) Schedule a pickup.
Drop it off at a UPS location. Be sure to bring your identification.
Hand the labeled package to your friendly neighborhood driver.

* Note:

While we'll notify you on shipment notifications or tracking status updates if you need a code to pick up your package, your shipper will provide the code directly to you. The package release code is a 4-6 digit numerical code that is provided by the shipper and is different from the tracking number.

Expand Your Business

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Business Solutions

Whether you’re just getting started or you’re an expert in your field, we can help.

Explore Business Shipping

Learn How To Ship Internationally

Looking to reach new markets? We’ve simplified the process for you.

How To Ship Internationally