USPS Delivery Instructions and Special Handling Codes

Introduction

The "last mile" of delivery — getting the package from the delivery truck to the recipient's hands — is a critical step where most delivery issues occur. Porch piracy, missed deliveries, incorrect placements, and weather damage all happen in this final phase. USPS offers several mechanisms for senders and recipients to customize how packages are delivered, from basic delivery instructions to specialized handling codes and intercept services.

Understanding and utilizing these options can dramatically reduce delivery issues, customer complaints, and claims. This guide covers every delivery customization tool available through USPS in 2026.

Delivery Instructions for Recipients

USPS Informed Delivery

Informed Delivery is a free USPS service that allows recipients to view grayscale images of incoming mail and manage package deliveries digitally. Through this service, recipients can set delivery preferences tailored to their needs. This feature is available to all residential addresses with regular carrier delivery, making it accessible to a wide audience. Signing up is straightforward through usps.com or the USPS mobile app. Once enrolled, users receive daily images of their incoming letter mail, integrated package tracking, and the ability to set delivery instructions per package. Notifications are sent via email and push notifications, keeping recipients informed of their mail and packages at all times.

Delivery Instructions via Informed Delivery

Recipients using Informed Delivery have several options for leaving delivery instructions for their incoming packages. By default, packages are left at the front door, but recipients can specify alternative locations such as the back door, side door, garage (if accessible), or with a neighbor. If the recipient prefers not to have the package delivered to their home, they can opt to have it held at the Post Office for pickup. Smaller packages that fit can be left in the mailbox. These options provide flexibility and security, reducing the risk of theft or damage.

Package Delivery Instructions on the Address

Senders can include specific delivery instructions directly on the shipping label using the "Delivery Instructions" field in their shipping software. This is particularly useful for addressing unique delivery challenges. For instance, if a customer's front porch is exposed to the street, instructions to "Leave at back door" can help prevent theft. In apartment complexes with package offices, "Leave at office/leasing office" ensures secure delivery. For packages requiring personal receipt, "Signature Required — do not leave" mandates that the carrier obtains a signature. However, it's important to note that while USPS carriers strive to follow these instructions, they are not obligated to do so. Recipient-set instructions via Informed Delivery carry more weight and are more likely to be followed.

Special Handling Services

USPS offers several paid special handling services that modify how packages are processed and delivered, adding an extra layer of security and customization.

Signature Services

Signature services ensure that a package is delivered only to the intended recipient or an authorized individual. Signature Confirmation requires the recipient to sign upon delivery, providing proof that the package reached its destination. For more sensitive deliveries, Adult Signature Required mandates that the recipient is at least 21 years old and presents valid identification. Restricted Delivery further tightens security by allowing only the named addressee to sign. Certified Mail provides proof of mailing and requires a signature upon delivery, making it ideal for important documents. These services, while adding a cost, offer peace of mind and accountability.

Insurance Services

For valuable shipments, USPS offers insurance services that protect against loss or damage. Declared Value Insurance provides coverage based on the item's value, offering financial protection should something happen during transit. Registered Mail enhances security with a chain-of-custody process and includes insurance, making it suitable for high-value items. COD (Collect on Delivery) allows the sender to collect payment from the recipient upon delivery, adding a layer of security for transactions. These insurance options ensure that both sender and recipient have recourse in the event of a problem.

Confirmation and Tracking Services

Tracking and confirmation services keep both senders and recipients informed about the status of their shipments. Delivery Confirmation provides basic tracking with a delivery scan, which is included with most USPS services. Return Receipt services, available in electronic and physical formats, offer proof of delivery with a signature, ideal for legal or sensitive documents. The Certificate of Mailing provides a receipt proving that an item was mailed, though it does not include tracking. These services help manage expectations and provide accountability, which is crucial for customer satisfaction.

USPS Hold for Pickup

Hold Mail Service

USPS Hold Mail Service allows recipients to request that their mail be held at the Post Office for up to 30 days, which is particularly useful during vacations or temporary absences. This service is free and can be requested online, via the USPS app, or in person. Once the hold period ends, all accumulated mail is delivered in bulk on the resume date, ensuring that important items are not left unattended during your absence.

Hold for Pickup (Per-Package)

When a delivery attempt fails, USPS leaves a notice (PS Form 3849) and holds the package at the local Post Office. Standard hold duration is 15 days, though some services extend this to 30 days. Recipients can pick up their package at the location specified on the notice, bringing along a government-issued photo ID. If someone else will pick up the package, they must have written authorization from the addressee. After the hold period, unclaimed packages are returned to the sender.

Requesting Hold for Pickup Before Delivery

Recipients can proactively request that a package be held at the Post Office rather than delivered. This can be done by logging into USPS.com, accessing the tracking for the specific package, and selecting the "Hold for Pickup" option. The recipient then chooses a convenient Post Office location and picks up the package with valid ID. This option is useful for those who won't be home for an extended period, have concerns about porch piracy, or prefer to pick up valuable packages at a convenient time.

USPS Package Intercept

Package Intercept allows the sender or recipient to redirect a package that is already in the mail stream before final delivery. This service provides flexibility in managing unforeseen circumstances.

How Package Intercept Works

To initiate a Package Intercept, visit usps.com/packageintercept and enter the tracking number. You can choose to return the package to the sender, redirect it to a new address, or hold it at a Post Office. The intercept fee is $17.00. USPS will attempt to intercept the package at the next processing point, with an estimated success rate between 75-85%, depending on timing.

Package Intercept Details

The Package Intercept service is available for Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, Ground Advantage, and Parcel Select. It is not available for international mail or packages that have already been delivered. The process typically takes 1–3 business days to take effect. While this service is not guaranteed, it provides a valuable option for addressing shipping errors or changes in delivery needs.

When to Use Package Intercept

Package Intercept is particularly useful in situations where the package was shipped to the wrong address, a customer canceled their order, the wrong item was shipped, the customer moved after ordering, or there is a security concern at the delivery address. By using intercept, you can redirect the package to the correct address, return it to the sender, or hold it at the Post Office, providing flexibility and control over the delivery process.

Limitations

While Package Intercept is a powerful tool, it comes with limitations. It is a "best effort" service and is not guaranteed. If the package is already out for delivery on the carrier's truck, it's too late to intercept. The intercept fee is charged regardless of success, and only one intercept attempt per package is allowed. Additionally, mail that has already been delivered cannot be intercepted.

USPS Delivery Attempt and Redelivery

What Happens When You're Not Home

For packages requiring a signature or that are too large for the mailbox, USPS follows a standard procedure. During the first attempt, the carrier will try to deliver the package during their regular route. If no one is home, a PS Form 3849 notice is left in the mailbox or on the door. The package is then held at the local Post Office or carrier facility. Recipients can schedule redelivery online, by phone, or by completing and returning the notice form.

Scheduling Redelivery

Recipients have multiple options for scheduling redelivery. They can do so online at usps.com/redelivery by entering the tracking number, calling 1-800-ASK-USPS, completing PS Form 3849 and leaving it in the mailbox, or using the USPS App. This flexibility ensures that recipients can choose the method that best fits their needs.

Redelivery Options

USPS offers several redelivery options. Recipients can choose to have the package redelivered to the same address on the next available delivery day, or specify a particular date within 15 days. Alternatively, they can opt to pick up the package at the Post Office during business hours, or have it delivered to a different address if available. In some cases, recipients may authorize the release of the package without a signature by signing the notice.

Redelivery Tips

To ensure a smooth redelivery process, it is advisable to schedule early — requesting redelivery before 2:00 AM can facilitate next-day delivery. Being specific about a chosen delivery date, ensuring someone will be home, can prevent further missed deliveries. If the package doesn't require a signature, signing the notice to authorize the carrier to leave it can save time. If coordinating a specific delivery time is challenging, picking up the package at the Post Office is often a quicker alternative.

Special Handling Codes for Shippers

When creating labels through shipping APIs, several handling codes can be applied to modify delivery behavior, providing shippers with additional control over how packages are managed.

USPS Extra Services (API Codes)

Each service has a corresponding API code that can be used to specify delivery preferences. For example, the code 108 for Signature Confirmation ensures the package is only handed over with a recipient's signature. Code 119 requires an adult signature, verifying the recipient is over 21. Insurance, certified mail, and tracking services all have unique codes, allowing shippers to apply these options as needed.

Special Handling — Fragile

For packages that require extra care, USPS offers a Special Handling — Fragile service. This service costs $12.15 and ensures that the package receives additional care in handling and sorting. Packages marked as "FRAGILE" or with "SPECIAL HANDLING" stamps are treated with more caution. However, it's crucial to remember that this service does not guarantee against damage. Proper internal packaging is essential, and this service should be seen as an extra layer of protection rather than a replacement for good packaging practices.

Do Not Deliver / Deliver on Specific Date

Some USPS services allow for specific delivery preferences. Services like Priority Mail Express offer a "Do Not Deliver Before" date, allowing shippers to specify when a package should not be delivered before. Saturday delivery is included with Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express, while Sunday or holiday delivery is available in select areas. These options provide flexibility in scheduling deliveries according to customer needs.

USPS Carrier Leave Instructions

The physical carrier who delivers your mail can also accept standing delivery instructions for specific addresses, providing a personal touch to the delivery process.

How Standing Instructions Work

Customers can communicate with their regular letter carrier or contact their local Post Office to leave standing instructions. These might include leaving packages at the back door, ringing the doorbell and waiting for a response, or placing packages in a specific location such as a locked box or bin. While carriers are not required to follow these instructions, most regular carriers on established routes will accommodate reasonable requests.

Writing Delivery Instructions

For customers who do not use Informed Delivery, leaving a simple note in the mailbox can be effective. For example:

> "Dear Mail Carrier, Please leave packages at the back door, behind the screen. Thank you!"

Such notes, though informal, can guide carriers and help ensure packages are left in safe locations.

Best Practices for Shippers

1. Offer Delivery Options at Checkout

Modern e-commerce platforms should provide delivery customization options during checkout. Offering choices such as standard delivery, signature-required delivery, hold at Post Office, and free-form delivery notes can enhance customer satisfaction and reduce delivery issues.

2. Use Signature Confirmation Strategically

While signature confirmation adds security, it should not be applied universally. Reserve it for high-value orders, high-theft-risk items, age-restricted products, or deliveries to high-fraud-risk addresses. This strategic use minimizes failed delivery attempts and customer frustration.

3. Communicate Delivery Expectations

Proactive communication with customers about their delivery status can improve satisfaction. Notifications for shipping confirmation, out-for-delivery status, delivery confirmations, and failed delivery attempts keep customers informed and prepared.

4. Handle Failed Deliveries Proactively

When a delivery attempt fails, immediate notification to the customer is crucial. Provide clear redelivery instructions, offer to redirect the package to an alternate address, and inform the customer of Post Office pickup options. Set realistic expectations for the hold period to manage customer satisfaction.

5. Provide Clear Address Instructions to Customers

During checkout, prompt customers for any special delivery instructions, such as gate codes, building access information, preferred delivery locations, or whether packages should be left if no one is home. Clear instructions help carriers deliver packages accurately and securely.

USPS delivery instructions and special handling codes give both senders and recipients significant control over how packages are delivered. From basic delivery location preferences to advanced services like Package Intercept and Adult Signature Required, these tools address the most common last-mile delivery challenges.

For e-commerce sellers, the key takeaway is to offer delivery customization at checkout, use signature services strategically (not universally), communicate proactively about delivery status, and handle failed deliveries quickly. For recipients, Informed Delivery and the USPS app provide powerful tools for managing incoming packages and preventing missed deliveries.

The combination of proper delivery instructions, appropriate special handling services, and proactive communication can reduce delivery issues by 40–60% — improving customer satisfaction while reducing support costs and claims.