UPS launches parcel pick-up alternatives in Canada

Canadian consumers receiving a parcel via UPS now have the option of collecting it at a nearby branch of The UPS Store. The new service from UPS Canada aims to provide more convenience for packages delivered to residential addresses.

It also means reducing the number of repeat visits for UPS drivers to attempt re-delivery, saving on transport costs.

If an item cannot be delivered on the first attempt, a UPS driver will leave a card letting the recipient know where they can pick up their parcel the following day.

UPS said the UPS Store franchises will be able to scan packages and capture signatures on pick-up, providing full visibility for the shipment process for shippers.

Those who do not want to collect their package from the nearest participating UPS retail franchise will be able to arrange alternative delivery via the UPS website.

Packages that are not collected for seven days will be returned.
UPS said it successfully trialed the idea earlier this year in the Canadian cities of Kitchener and Montreal, but is now rolling the service out nationwide.

Canada currently has 340 UPS stores, with UPS stating its intention to continue adding more retail pickup locations to its network.

Wayne Bosch, vice president at UPS Canada Customer Solutions, said the new approach to package delivery was a response to feedback from private consumers and from business-to-consumer shippers.

He said: “It’s a great way to help our customers receive their packages when it’s most convenient for them and helps contribute to environmental efficiencies by reducing the number of return trips a driver makes to an address.”

UPS said its commercial customers will continue to receive three delivery attempts as usual.