The fastest way to find a UPS location is to use the UPS Store Locator on ups.com, or call 1-800-742-5877 to speak with someone who can tell you the nearest address, hours, and what services that location offers
UPS has two types of locations: UPS Customer Centers (company-owned) and UPS Store franchises (independently owned but authorized to handle UPS shipments). Both can ship packages, but they differ in hours, services, and what they charge. The Store Locator tells you which type each location is, so you know what to expect before you arrive.
If you need to ship something today and want to confirm a location is open right now, calling ahead takes five minutes and saves a wasted trip. The phone number above connects you to a representative who can also tell you whether that location handles the specific service you need — some franchises do not offer international shipping or pack-and-ship services, for example.
Key Takeaways
- UPS Customer Centers and UPS Store franchises both ship packages, but franchises have variable hours and may not offer all services.
- The UPS Store Locator at ups.com shows you the type of location, hours, address, and phone number for every nearby UPS facility.
- Calling 1-800-742-5877 or the location directly confirms whether they are open now and whether they handle your specific shipping need.
- UPS Customer Centers are usually open during standard business hours; UPS Store franchises often have evening and weekend hours but vary by owner.
Using the UPS Store Locator online
Go to ups.com and look for "Find a Location" or "Store Locator" in the top navigation. Enter your address, city, or ZIP code. The map shows all UPS locations within a few miles, with the closest ones listed first. Each result shows the full address, phone number, hours of operation, and a label telling you whether it is a UPS Customer Center or UPS Store.
Click on any location to see what services it offers. Some locations handle package pickup, drop-off, and packing; others only accept pre-packed shipments. If you need a specific service — like printing a label, packing a fragile item, or shipping internationally — check the service list before you go. This saves time and prevents a wasted trip.
What to bring when you visit
Bring the item you want to ship, a valid ID, and a payment method (credit card, debit card, or cash, depending on the location). If you already have a shipping label printed or generated on your phone, bring that too — it speeds up the process.
If you do not have a label, the staff can create one for you on the spot. You will need to tell them the destination address, the weight of the package, and what is inside. Have this information ready before you get to the counter. If the item is fragile or valuable, tell the staff — they can recommend the right box, padding, and insurance options.
Differences between UPS Customer Centers and UPS Store franchises
UPS Customer Centers are owned and operated by UPS. They are usually located near major roads or in commercial areas, open during standard business hours (often 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays), and closed on Sundays. They handle all UPS services and tend to have shorter wait times during off-peak hours.
UPS Store franchises are independently owned but licensed to handle UPS shipments. Hours vary widely — some open at 8 a.m. and close at 8 p.m., and many are open on Saturdays and Sundays. However, not all franchises offer every service. Some do not pack items, some do not ship internationally, and some do not accept certain types of cargo. The Store Locator lists what each franchise offers, so check before you go.
When to call ahead instead of just showing up
Call the location directly if you are shipping something unusual: a firearm, lithium batteries, hazardous materials, or an item worth more than $500. UPS has strict rules about what can be shipped and how it must be packaged, and not all locations are equipped to handle every type of shipment. A five-minute phone call confirms whether that location can take your package.
Also call if you are going during a busy time — lunch hours (11 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and late afternoon (4 p.m. to 6 p.m.) are typically crowded. If you call and learn the wait is long, you can come back at a quieter time or use a different location.
Alternatives if no location is convenient
If no UPS location near you has hours that work, you can schedule a pickup from your home or business. Call 1-800-742-5877 or use the UPS website to request a pickup. A driver will come to your address on a day and time you choose, usually within one to two business days. You pay a pickup fee (the amount varies by location and service type), but you avoid the trip.
You can also drop off packages at certain retail partners — some Walgreens, CVS, and grocery stores accept UPS shipments. The Store Locator shows these locations too, and they often have longer hours than standalone UPS facilities. However, retail partners usually only accept pre-labeled packages, so you must print your label before you arrive.
What happens after you drop off your package
When you drop off a package, the staff scans it and gives you a receipt with a tracking number. Keep this receipt. The tracking number lets you follow your package online at ups.com — you can see when it leaves the facility, when it arrives at sorting hubs, and when it reaches the destination.
Packages are usually picked up from the location later that day or the next morning, depending on the cutoff time. The Store Locator or staff can tell you the last time to drop off a package if you want it to ship the same day. After that, it ships the next business day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drop off a package at a UPS location without a label?
Yes. The staff will create a label for you at the counter. You need to know the destination address, the weight of the package, and what is inside. They will weigh it, calculate the cost, and print the label. You pay at that time.
Do UPS Store franchises charge more than UPS Customer Centers?
Prices for shipping are set by UPS and are the same everywhere. However, franchises may charge additional fees for packing, box rental, or other services. Ask about fees before you commit to using that location.
What if I need to ship something today and the nearest location closes soon?
Call the location to confirm it is still open and that it can handle your shipment. If it is too late, ask about scheduling a pickup from your home, or check whether a nearby retail partner (Walgreens, CVS) accepts UPS packages. Some retail locations stay open later than UPS facilities.
Can I return a package at any UPS location?
Yes, but the process depends on where the package came from. If you bought something online, check the return instructions — they will tell you whether to use UPS and which location to go to. Bring the return label if you have one. If you do not have a label, the staff can create one, but you will pay for return shipping unless the seller covers it.
What if the UPS location near me does not offer the service I need?
Call 1-800-742-5877 and ask for the nearest location that offers that service. The representative can tell you the address and hours. If no location is close enough, ask about scheduling a pickup from your home instead.