UPS customer support phone numbers by service type

UPS operates different phone lines depending on what you need help with. The main customer service number is 1-800-742-5877, which handles general inquiries, package tracking, and billing questions. This line is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

If you are a UPS shipper with a business account, call 1-800-742-5877 and select the option for account holders. If you need help with a UPS Store location (which is franchised separately from UPS itself), you should contact that specific store directly rather than the main UPS line, since UPS Stores operate independently.

For UPS Ground shipments, UPS Next Day Air, UPS 2nd Day Air, and other shipping services, the same main number routes you to the right department based on your selection. Have your tracking number ready — it speeds up the call.

Key Takeaways

  • The main UPS customer service number is 1-800-742-5877, available weekdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern.
  • UPS Stores are franchised businesses and do not use the main UPS phone line — contact your local store directly instead.
  • Having your tracking number ready before you call will help the representative locate your shipment faster.
  • For billing or account questions, you may be transferred to a specialized department after you explain your issue on the main line.
  • If you cannot reach someone during business hours, UPS offers online tracking and claim filing through its website as an alternative.

What information to have before you call

Gather these details before dialing so the representative can help you without transferring you multiple times. If you are tracking a package, have the tracking number ready — it appears on your shipping label or confirmation email. If you are calling about a shipment you sent, have the shipper reference number or the recipient's name and address.

For account-related questions, have your account number handy. If you are reporting a damaged or missing package, have photos of the damage and the original shipping label. If you are disputing a charge, have your invoice or credit card statement showing the transaction date and amount.

When to call versus using online options

Call UPS customer service if you need to file a claim for a lost or damaged package, dispute a charge, or speak to someone about a complex shipping issue. The phone line is also faster if your package is stuck in transit and you need when ready clarification.

For routine tracking, use the UPS website or the UPS mobile app — both update in real time and do not require waiting on hold. You can also file a claim online through your UPS account if you have one. The website option works well if you are calling outside business hours and need to document an issue for your records.

UPS customer service wait times and hold strategies

Wait times vary by time of day and season. Calling early in the morning (8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Eastern) or mid-afternoon (2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern) typically means shorter holds than calling during lunch or late afternoon. During peak shipping seasons (November through December), expect longer waits regardless of time.

When you reach the automated system, listen to all menu options before selecting one. Choosing the wrong option can add 10 to 15 minutes to your call. If you are transferred and disconnected, call back and reference the case number you were given — the next representative can pull up your history.

Contacting UPS for specific shipping scenarios

If your package was not delivered as promised, call with your tracking number and the date you expected delivery. The representative can confirm whether the package is delayed or misrouted and may be able to arrange redelivery or a refund.

If you are a sender and need to stop a shipment before it is delivered, call when ready — UPS can intercept packages in some cases, but only if the request comes before the package reaches the delivery facility. If you are a recipient and a package was delivered to the wrong address, UPS can sometimes redirect it, though this depends on how far the package has traveled.

For international shipments, the same main number handles calls, but you may be transferred to the international department. Have your customs documentation or commercial invoice number ready if applicable.

Alternative ways to reach UPS support

Beyond the phone line, UPS offers support through its website at ups.com. You can track packages, file claims, and manage your account online without calling. The UPS mobile app provides the same tracking and account features and sends push notifications when your package status changes.

If you prefer not to call, you can also visit a UPS Customer Center in person — these are different from UPS Stores and are staffed by UPS employees rather than franchisees. A UPS Customer Center can help with claims, account questions, and shipping needs. Use the UPS website to find the nearest location and hours.

What to do if you cannot reach customer service

If the phone line is consistently busy or you cannot reach someone during posted hours, try calling at a different time. Early morning calls on weekdays tend to have the shortest waits. You can also file a claim or request support through your online UPS account, which does not require a phone call.

If you have a recurring issue or a high-value shipment, ask the representative for a direct contact or case manager number. Some business accounts have dedicated support lines that bypass the main queue. If you are a frequent shipper, this may be worth requesting during your call.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the UPS customer service number?

The main UPS customer service number is 1-800-742-5877. It is available Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Have your tracking number ready when you call.

Can I call UPS on Sunday?

The main customer service line does not operate on Sunday. However, you can track your package and file claims online through ups.com or the UPS app at any time, including weekends. If your issue is urgent, use the online options to document it and call back Monday morning.

Is there a different number for UPS Stores?

Yes. UPS Stores are franchised and do not use the main UPS phone line. Look up your local UPS Store location on ups.com and call that store directly. If you need help with a shipment sent through a UPS Store, contact that specific store first.

How long does it take to reach someone at UPS?

Wait times range from a few minutes to 20 or more minutes depending on the time of day and season. Calling early morning or mid-afternoon typically results in shorter waits than calling during lunch or late afternoon. During November and December, expect longer waits.

Can I file a claim without calling?

Yes. You can file a claim for a lost or damaged package through your UPS account on ups.com or through the UPS mobile app. You will need your tracking number and photos of any damage. Filing online creates a documented record and does not require waiting on hold.