Where Can I Drop Off USPS Packages in 2024? A Complete Guide to Your Shipping Options

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As one of the largest package delivery services in the United States, the United States Postal Service (USPS) moves over 580 million packages per week. With this huge volume, many customers want to know if they can drop off packages somewhere other than the post office.

The good news is that USPS offers many alternative access points through their Approved Postal Provider program. This allows busy consumers to ship packages at over 15,000 participating retail locations nationwide.

But where exactly can you drop off USPS packages? What are the pros and cons of each option? This definitive guide examines all your choices so you can find the best USPS drop-off solution to fit your needs.

Overview of USPS Approved Postal Providers

USPS established the Approved Postal Provider (APP) program to give customers convenient alternatives for basic postal services, like buying stamps and mailing packages.

As of January 2023, the APP program includes:

  • 15,682 Approved Shipper locations like Walmart, Staples, and Albertsons
  • 3,523 Contract Postal Units (CPUs) – dedicated postal counters within retail stores
  • 8,219 USPS Self-Service Kiosks located inside grocery stores, office stores, etc.

In total, there are over 27,000 Approved Postal Provider locations across all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S Virgin Islands. These sites handled over $3 billion in postage revenue in 2022.

Approved Shippers and CPUs accept pre-paid and pre-packaged USPS items for drop-off. Kiosks allow you to prepare packages on-site and print shipping labels for immediate deposit.

Utilizing these alternative access points provides several advantages over post office visits:

  • Extended hours at many retail locations
  • Avoid long post office lines
  • Many locations are closer to home or work
  • Package drop-off is quick and convenient

So let’s explore the top places you can drop off USPS packages.

12 Best Places to Drop Off USPS Packages

Here are 12 convenient places to drop off USPS packages other than the post office:

1. USPS Blue Collection Boxes

The iconic USPS blue collection boxes you see on neighborhood street corners and in public areas accept prepaid packages up to 70 pounds as long as they fit within the box opening.

There are currently over 140,000 collection boxes nationwide situated along USPS delivery routes, so finding one nearby is easy. Look for the stickers on the box noting acceptable package types and size limits.

Key Info:

  • Accepts packages up to 70 lbs if they fit
  • Over 140,000 boxes located throughout the U.S.
  • Free to use, no fees

2. Self-Service Kiosks

USPS offers self-service kiosks inside a variety of retail stores and supermarkets. These kiosks guide you through prepaying for postage and printing shipping labels for your packages without having to wait in line.

Once your package is prepped, you simply scan the barcode on the kiosk screen and deposit the parcel in the attached collection bin. USPS picks packages up regularly throughout the day.

You can find kiosks inside popular chains like Albertsons, Safeway, Kroger, Food Lion, and more. Use the USPS location finder to pinpoint one nearby.

Key Info:

  • 8,219 locations nationwide
  • Accepts prepaid USPS packages up to 70 lbs
  • Open 24/7 for anytime drop-off
  • Charges retail rates for postage

3. Walgreens

Most Walgreens locations now accept prepaid USPS packages at the photo counter or customer service desk. If the store has a self-service kiosk on-site, you can also ship packages using that option.

Nearly all of Walgreens’ over 9,000 store locations participate in the USPS APP program. Walgreens does charge a handling fee ranging from $1.99 to $5.99 depending on the package weight.

Key Info:

  • 9,021 participating locations nationwide
  • Accepts prepaid USPS packages
  • Package handling fees apply
  • Many stores offer self-service kiosks

4. CVS

Similar to Walgreens, most CVS pharmacy locations accept prepaid USPS packages for convenient drop-off. Look for the USPS signage near the front register or customer service counter.

If your local CVS has a self-service kiosk on-site, you can also prepare and ship packages at any time the store is open without having to talk to an employee.

CVS has around 9,900 stores across the U.S., most of which accept USPS parcels. As with Walgreens, expect to pay a package handling fee at the register.

Key Info:

  • 9,967 CVS locations with USPS services
  • Look for the USPS signage in-store
  • Accepts prepaid packages at checkout
  • Charges package handling fees

5. Walmart

Nearly all of Walmart’s 4,700+ U.S. stores offer USPS shipping through the customer service desk. If your package is prepaid and sealed, the process only takes a few minutes.

Walmart typically charges a handling fee based on package weight. But you can avoid any extra fees by using the self-service kiosks available at many locations instead.

Key Info:

  • 4,742 Walmart stores accept USPS packages
  • Quick drop-off at the customer service desk
  • Package handling fees apply
  • Many locations have USPS self-service kiosks

6. Kroger

Select Kroger-owned supermarket chains like Fry’s Food, Ralphs, and Dillons now feature self-service USPS kiosks available for customer use.

Once you’ve prepped your package at the kiosk, just scan the barcode and insert it into the attached parcel drop box anytime the store is open. Kroger does not charge additional handling fees.

Kroger has around 2,800 stores, but USPS services are not available at all locations. Check your local store or the USPS locator to confirm.

Key Info:

  • Growing number of Kroger chains offer kiosks
  • Allows 24/7 package drop-off
  • No extra handling fees
  • Available at select store locations

7. Staples

Most Staples stores allow you to drop off prepaid USPS packages at the customer service desk or self-service kiosk if available. Some locations also feature a USPS parcel drop box right at the front of the store.

With over 1,000 locations nationwide, Staples makes it convenient to ship USPS packages while picking up office supplies and other essentials. Package handling fees vary by location.

Key Info:

  • 1,018 Staples stores participate
  • Accept packages at the customer service desk
  • Many stores have package drop boxes and kiosks
  • Handling fees may apply

8. Safeway

Several Safeway grocery store locations now offer USPS shipping through on-site postal counters operated by third-party suppliers like Stamps.com and Airport Mailers. These counters provide all the standard USPS services.

If your local Safeway has one of these authorized shipping centers, you can conveniently drop off prepaid parcels while grocery shopping without any extra fees.

Safeway has around 930 stores, but only certain locations feature USPS counters. Use the USPS locator to find one near you.

Key Info:

  • Select Safeway stores have USPS counters inside
  • Operated by USPS-approved third parties
  • Accept prepaid packages with no extra fees
  • Approximately 930 Safeway locations nationwide

9. Albertsons

Albertsons is another large supermarket chain with over 2,200 stores that offers USPS drop-off services at select locations. As with Safeway, authorized third-party shippers operate dedicated counters within some Albertsons stores.

These counters sell USPS shipping supplies and accept pre-packaged prepaid parcels. Fees may apply when dropping off packages. Confirm with your local Albertsons if they participate.

Key Info:

  • Some Albertsons have USPS counters inside
  • Must have USPS postage pre-paid to drop off
  • Fees may apply per package
  • 2,260+ Albertsons stores, but not all offer USPS

10. Costco

Most Costco warehouse locations allow members to drop off prepaid USPS packages at the member services desk. Similar to other retailers, Costco may charge a handling fee per package.

Of Costco’s over 550 U.S. warehouses, around 75% participate in the USPS APP program. While not all warehouses offer USPS, it’s a convenient shipping option for many members.

Key Info:

  • 75% of Costco warehouses accept USPS (over 400 locations)
  • Prepaid packages only
  • Dropped off at the member services desk
  • Handling fees may apply

11. Ace Hardware

Select independently owned Ace Hardware stores now feature self-service USPS kiosks on-site for customer use. These kiosks allow you to ship prepaid packages without having to talk to store employees.

Ace Hardware has nearly 5,000 U.S. stores, but only certain franchise owners have opted to provide the USPS kiosks. Check with your local store or the USPS locator to see if they participate.

Key Info:

  • Growing number of Ace stores offer USPS kiosks
  • Allows self-service package shipping
  • Prepaid postage required
  • Available at participating locations

12. Authorized Postal Providers

Beyond big chains, there are thousands of small local businesses authorized as Postal Providers. These are convenience stores, pack-and-ship shops, and other retailers certified by USPS to accept packages.

If you have a trusted local shop near home or work that’s more convenient than the post office, ask them if they participate. Look for the round USPS Postal Provider sign in their window.

Key Info:

  • Thousands of small retailers certified as Postal Providers
  • Offer basic USPS products and services
  • Must display the USPS Postal Provider sign
  • Provides convenient neighborhood access

Finding a USPS Drop-Off Location Near You

Now that you know the many options available for dropping off packages, how do you find one close by?

Your best resource is the official USPS website’s Post Office Location finder. Here you can filter by location type, like Self-Service Kiosks, Approved Shippers, and Contract Units.

Enter your zip code and the locator displays participating options near you on an interactive map. Click each one to view hours, services, fees, and more details. This makes it easy to find a drop-off solution that fits your needs.

You can also call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or stop by your local post office to ask about nearby Approved Postal Provider locations. Many post offices keep lists of participating retailers to help guide customers.

Tips for Dropping Off Packages at USPS Alternate Locations

Here are some important tips to keep in mind when using USPS Approved Postal Providers:

  • Confirm operating hours – Most locations have hours different than your post office, so verify when dropping off
  • Have postage paid – You must have prepaid USPS labels purchased and affixed to packages
  • Watch for fees – Many retailers charge package handling fees, so expect added costs
  • Know size limits – Boxes usually can’t exceed 108 inches combined length and girth
  • Get tracking – Make sure to get shipping confirmation with tracking provided for your records
  • Inspect collection bins – Look for the official USPS signage and sealing on any drop boxes

Following these tips will ensure a smooth experience shipping your packages at alternative USPS access points.

The Convenience of USPS Approved Shippers

With over 15,000 Approved Postal Provider locations across the United States, USPS offers many convenient options for dropping off packages without standing in line at the post office.

Major retailers like Walgreens, Walmart, CVS, Kroger, Safeway, and others make it easy to ship packages while running regular errands. Self-service kiosks located inside stores allow you to prep and ship packages any day of the week outside post office operating hours.

So next time you need to mail a USPS package, consider all the quick and easy choices available through the Approved Postal Provider program. Do your shipping when and where it fits your schedule best.

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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