What Does Exception Mean At UPS In 2024? The Complete Guide

If you received a delivery exception notification from UPS, you‘re probably wondering what it means and what to do next. This comprehensive guide will explain everything about UPS exceptions in 2024 so you can stay informed and take action when needed.

What is a Delivery Exception at UPS?

A UPS delivery exception means there was an unexpected issue or delay with your package while in transit through the UPS network. According to UPS [1], an exception indicates your package is still in their system but the scheduled delivery date has changed.

When an exception occurs, the new expected delivery date will automatically update in the UPS tracking system. The specific reason for the exception will also be shown in the tracking details.

Most Common UPS Delivery Exceptions

According to UPS data, the most frequent types of exceptions are:

Incorrect address – 38% of exceptions
Missing or damaged label – 22%
Extreme weather delays – 18%
Pickup/delivery issue – 11%
Increased volume delays – 9%
Loss or damage – 2%

For example, an incorrect address exception means the delivery information is inaccurate so UPS can‘t complete delivery. A winter storm exception indicates shipping delays due to unsafe conditions.

Tips to Avoid the Most Common UPS Exceptions

You can help prevent some of the most frequent UPS exceptions by:

Carefully checking addresses – Validate the full street address, city, state, zip code and recipient name before shipping to avoid incorrect address exceptions.
Properly attaching labels – Make sure labels are securely applied and clearly visible to prevent damaged label exceptions.
Using accurate package dimensions and weight – This helps UPS route efficiently and minimizes delays.
Shipping early during peak times – Avoid busier holiday shipping weeks when volume exceptions are more likely.
Adding signature requirements – This ensures someone is available to receive and prevents some delivery issue exceptions.

"Exception – Action Required" at UPS – What It Means

A UPS exception notification stating "Action Required" means they need additional information from you to complete delivery and resolve the issue. This commonly occurs with incorrect addresses or when the recipient is unavailable for delivery.

If you receive an exception – action required alert:

Contact UPS immediately at 1-800-742-5877 to supply the needed information so they can deliver your package promptly.
Via UPS My Choice account – If you have an account, you can easily provide details like corrected addresses that UPS requests.
Have tracking number ready – UPS will need your shipment‘s tracking number to pull up the exception details.
Confirm information. Double check any address corrections before providing them to UPS to avoid further exceptions.

Step-by-Step Guide to Resolving a UPS Exception

If you‘ve received a UPS exception, here is a complete step-by-step process to get it cleared up:

Check tracking status frequently – The UPS website tracking will update with expected delivery date changes and details as they resolve the exception.
Contact UPS if needed – If the exception persists more than 2 days or action is required, call UPS at 1-800-742-5877 for assistance.
Provide information via UPS My Choice – Use your My Choice account to quickly give UPS details like corrected addresses.
Discuss options with UPS if damaged – For loss or damage exceptions, work with UPS on next steps like inspection, replacement or refund.
Request a refund – If a package shows as lost after tracing efforts, file a claim to recoup your shipping costs.
Adjust future shipments – Take steps like updating recipient addresses to avoid repeat exceptions.

Get Refunds or Credit for Lost or Damaged Packages

If a UPS investigation determines your package was lost or damaged during transit, you can request compensation by filing a claim:

For damage, you can claim up to $100 in compensation or the actual value of damages, whichever is less.
For a lost package, you can be refunded the entire cost of the lost shipment, typically the product value plus shipping charges.
Claims can be filed online or by phone. Supporting documentation like receipts are required.
UPS must respond with an outcome of your claim within 30 days after filing.

Key Takeaways on UPS Delivery Exceptions

When you receive an exception notification from UPS, here are the key things to remember:

Exceptions mean a delivery delay – new date is shown in tracking status.
"Action required" exception means UPS needs info from you to deliver.
Quickly provide needed details through UPS My Choice account.
If package lost or damaged, file a claim to get refunded.
Correct any recipient address issues to avoid repeat exceptions.

With this comprehensive guide, you can understand UPS exceptions and take the needed steps to efficiently resolve any issues that arise with your packages.