How Many Signature Attempts Do Carriers Make?

Signature attempt limits are the number of times a carrier will attempt to deliver a signature-required package before holding it at the facility and eventually returning it to sender.

Key facts:

• Carriers make 2–3 attempts depending on the carrier and service level
• After all attempts fail, the package is held at the local facility
• Hold period varies: 3–15 days depending on carrier
• You can pick up anytime during the hold period
• After hold expires, package returns automatically to sender

This is different from regular deliveries where packages might be left unattended or with neighbors. Signature deliveries require your active intervention to resolve.

Carriers limit attempts because:

1. Cost Each failed attempt requires a driver to visit your address, burning fuel and time. After 2–3 failed attempts, it becomes economically inefficient.

2. Logistics efficiency Holding indefinitely ties up package capacity at the facility and clutters the system.

3. Shipper pressure Retailers expect resolution (either delivery or return) within a reasonable timeframe. Extended holds are bad for business.

4. Operational standards Carriers publish these limits in their service agreements, so shippers know what to expect.

5. Legal clarity A defined limit (return after X days) removes ambiguity and protects both shipper and carrier from liability disputes.

Signature attempt timeline by carrier:

| Carrier | Attempts | Hold Period | Total Days | Return Policy | |---|---|---|---|---| | USPS | 1–2 | 15 days | ~16 days | After 15-day hold | | UPS | 3 | 5 days | ~8 days | After 5-day hold | | FedEx | 3 | 5 days | ~8 days | After 5-day hold | | DHL | 2–3 | 3–5 days | ~5–8 days | After hold period |

USPS in detail:

• First attempt (if available) on day 1
• Second attempt (if available) on day 2
• Held at post office for 15 days
• Returns to sender on day 16 if not picked up

UPS in detail:

• Attempt 1: Day of initial delivery attempt
• Attempt 2: Next business day
• Attempt 3: Day after that
• Held at UPS facility for 5 calendar days after final attempt
• Returns to sender on day 5 of hold

FedEx in detail:

• Attempt 1: Day of delivery attempt
• Attempt 2: Next business day
• Attempt 3: Day after that
• Held at FedEx facility for 5 calendar days
• Returns to sender automatically after 5 days

DHL in detail:

• Attempt 1: Day of delivery attempt
• Attempt 2: Next business day (or same day if early attempt)
• Attempt 3: Possible but less common
• Held at DHL ServicePoint for 3–5 days
• Returns to sender after hold period expires

Moderately. You have time, but not unlimited time.

You're fine if:

• You act within 24 hours of the first failed attempt
• You'll reschedule or pick up
• The package is within the first attempt or two

Act urgently if:

• This is the second or third failed attempt
• You're in the hold period (especially with DHL — only 3–5 days)
• More than a week has passed since the first attempt

Track your attempts:

1. Check your tracking number frequently
2. Each failed attempt will show with a date and time
3. Note which attempt number you're on
4. Know your carrier's hold period

After first failed attempt:

• Reschedule immediately via UPS My Choice, FedEx Delivery Manager, DHL On Demand, or USPS Redelivery
• Or pick up from facility

If you miss the reattempt:

• Go to facility to pick up before hold period ends
• Or contact shipper to request reshipment (if return is processed)

If hold period is about to expire:

• Pick up from facility immediately
• Don't wait — once hold period closes, return-to-sender is automatic

Fastest resolution: Pick up from facility after first failed attempt. This bypasses all remaining attempts and hold periods.

Contact the carrier to:

• Confirm how many attempts remain
• Confirm the hold period end date
• Arrange facility pickup
• Confirm your address for a reattempt

Carrier contacts:

• USPS: 1-800-275-8777
• UPS: 1-800-742-5877
• FedEx: 1-800-463-3339
• DHL: 1-800-225-5345

Related guides:

• What happens if I miss a signature delivery?
• What does Signature Required mean?
• What happens if nobody is home for a signature delivery?
• Why was my package returned to sender?