How To Use USPS®’s Package Intercept Service

The USPS® Package Intercept process allows you to redirect your merchandise if it reaches the wrong address. By using this service, you can intercept those packages that are in the mail-stream, but have not been delivered yet. However, different categories of customers will have access to different Package Intercept options. For example, you will have to address different terms and conditions if you are a retail customer who visits the post office or a commercial mailer who operates with a permit that is linked to the Centralized Account Processing System.

If you are a retail customer who ships products from the post office, you can request the service to redirect your package back to you. If you are a commercial mailer, you have three options to choose from. You can get your package redirected to your address or to a new alternate address or you may get it redirected to a post office near your place while opting for the Hold-For-Pickup option. However, the USPS® Package Intercept service has some limitations and you should know them well in order to make the most out of it. You should be aware that this service allows you to redirect only domestic packages. The service does not permit international packages to be redirected. Additionally, you will not be allowed to get your packages redirected to APO/FPO/DPO destinations and the service will not apply to shipments that will require a customs form.

You should note that the USPS® Package Intercept service does not provide any guarantee and if the USPS® fails to redirect your package, it will not issue a refund for the service that could not be successfully completed. You should also be aware of the fact that you can use the Package Intercept service for all inland packages except Standard Mail and periodicals that come with tracking barcodes or Extra service barcode.

So how much do you need to pay for the USPS® Package Intercept service? While your fee will depend on the auxiliary services that you would like to avail apart from the primary service, the standard fee that you will have to pay stands at $12.55. Commercial mailers will have to bear additional charges if they opt for additional USPS® services such as Signature Confirmation or Insurance. Additionally, you will incur extra postage costs if you choose to redirect your package to a new recipient.