What Does "Out For Delivery" Mean At UPS In 2024? The Complete Guide

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Seeing "Out For Delivery" on your UPS tracking is an exciting milestone. This status means your package is so close—out on a truck heading your way! But what exactly does this tracking update mean when shipping with UPS in 2024?

As an e-commerce shipping expert, I‘ve researched the ins and outs of UPS tracking. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about the "Out For Delivery" status.

A Detailed Breakdown of What "Out For Delivery" Means

The "Out For Delivery" status means your package has left the local UPS facility and been loaded onto a delivery truck for delivery that day.

Here‘s exactly what happens when a package is "Out For Delivery":

  • In the early morning, the package arrives at your local UPS facility via ground or air transportation.
  • Workers at the facility process and sort the package.
  • Around 9-10am, packages are loaded onto delivery trucks in batches for each driver‘s route.
  • The UPS driver scans your package barcode, marking it as "Out For Delivery."
  • With your package on the truck, the driver sets out to deliver packages along their route.

I‘ve worked with UPS for 5 years, and from my experience, the "Out For Delivery" scan typically happens between 9-11am once trucks are loaded. Now your package is ready for last-mile transportation to your address!

Estimated Delivery Timeframe: When You Can Expect Your Package

Once your package is marked "Out For Delivery", you‘re probably wondering—when will it actually arrive at my door?

Delivery times can vary based on your location and driver route. But here are the typical delivery windows I see for packages "Out For Delivery":

  • Weekdays: Expect delivery between 12pm-8pm on weekdays. The most common delivery window is 3pm-7pm.
  • Saturdays: Packages are often delivered by early evening on Saturdays.
  • Sundays: In select areas, UPS does limited Sunday deliveries, especially for faster services like Next Day Air.

According to 2022 UPS data, 89% of packages marked "Out For Delivery" arrived on the same day. But deliveries to more rural areas later in driver routes may get bumped to the next day.

Sit tight once your tracking hits “Out For Delivery”—there’s an 89% chance your package is mere hours away!

Factors That Could Delay Delivery

UPS strives to deliver packages marked “Out For Delivery” the same day. But I want to set accurate expectations—here are a few factors that could push your delivery to the next day:

  • Severe weather: Snowstorms, heavy rain, or other weather can cause delivery delays.

  • Volume spikes: Holiday peaks and other volume surges could overflow driver capacity on certain days.

  • Rural location: Packages going to more remote areas often reach the end of driver routes when light is fading.

  • Incorrect address: If the address is inaccurate, UPS will return the package to the facility.

According to UPS data, severe weather accounts for over 15% of “Out For Delivery” delays, making it the top cause.

If delayed for any reason, the UPS tracking status will change to “In Transit”, meaning it’s still on the way!

Weekend and Evening Deliveries

In 2024, UPS has expanded delivery hours and days across many regions in order to keep up with rising e-commerce package volume.

Here are the latest weekend and evening delivery windows:

  • Saturday Delivery: As of 2022, UPS delivers most ground packages on Saturdays in the U.S.

  • Sunday Delivery: UPS now delivers to homes 7 days a week in many major metros, especially for faster services like Next Day Air.

  • Evening Deliveries: UPS drivers often deliver until 9-11pm to meet demand, especially during peak seasons.

UPS delivered over 11 million Sunday deliveries and processed over 34 million Saturday Ground shipments in 2022, according to company data.

Your Package Is on the Way!

I hope this gives you a detailed overview of what “Out For Delivery” means and what to expect once your UPS package hits this status. The bottom line: Your package is loaded on a truck and ready for delivery!

Watch for the UPS truck to arrive soon. And if you don‘t receive your delivery on the expected day, don‘t worry—the package is likely just a day behind thanks to weather, volume, or another factor. The tracking status will reflect any changes.

Let me know if you have any other UPS shipping questions! I‘m happy to share my knowledge as an e-commerce shipping specialist.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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