USPS Package Intercept is a service that lets senders or recipients redirect a package back to the sender, to a different address, or to a nearby Post Office for pickup, after it's already been shipped but before it's actually delivered. It's a useful safety net for situations like an incorrect address or a package sent by mistake.
This service isn't guaranteed to succeed in every case, since it depends on catching the package before it moves too far along in the delivery process, but when it works, it can save the hassle of dealing with a misdirected shipment after the fact.
This article explains how Package Intercept works, when it's likely to succeed, and how to request it if you need to redirect a shipment already in transit.
What It Means
Package Intercept allows a sender or recipient to request that USPS redirect a package that's already in transit, either back to the original sender, to a new address, or to a local Post Office for pickup, rather than letting it complete its original delivery.
This is different from Redelivery, which simply reschedules a delivery attempt to the same original address — Package Intercept actually changes the destination or return status of the package entirely.
The service isn't always successful, since it depends on catching the package at a point in the network where redirection is still physically possible — a package already out for delivery or very close to its destination may not be eligible for interception.
Why It Happens
Common reasons to use Package Intercept:
- A package was shipped to the wrong address by mistake and needs to be redirected before delivery.
- A sender wants to recall a package after realizing an error with the order or shipment.
- A recipient will no longer be at the delivery address and needs the package redirected elsewhere.
- A business needs to retrieve a shipment that was sent in error, such as a duplicate order.
Why it doesn't always succeed:
- Once a package reaches certain points in the delivery process, particularly once it's out for delivery or already delivered, USPS may not be able to intercept it in time.
How Long It Lasts
Requesting Package Intercept typically takes effect within 1-3 business days, assuming the package hasn't already progressed too far through the delivery network or reached its final delivery stage.
If successful, the redirected package will then follow a new delivery timeline based on wherever it's being redirected to, whether that's back to the sender, a new address, or a nearby Post Office for pickup.
If the request isn't successful because the package has already moved too far along, USPS will generally notify the requester so alternative arrangements can be made, similar to how forwarding requests work when timing prevents a successful redirect.
Should You Be Concerned?
Not particularly, though it's worth understanding that Package Intercept isn't guaranteed to work in every situation — success depends heavily on timing and where exactly the package is in the delivery process when the request is made.
If you're requesting Package Intercept because of an urgent issue, like a package sent to an old address, it's worth submitting the request as soon as possible, since earlier requests have a meaningfully better chance of success than ones made close to the expected delivery date.
If the intercept request isn't successful, this isn't a sign of a mistake on your part — it simply means the package had already progressed too far through the network for redirection to be possible at that point.
What You Can Do
When requesting Package Intercept:
- Submit the request as early as possible after realizing the package needs to be redirected, since timing significantly affects the odds of success.
- Have your tracking number ready, since this is required to identify the specific package for interception.
- Choose your preferred outcome clearly, whether that's returning to sender, redirecting to a new address, or holding for pickup at a Post Office.
If the intercept request fails:
- Check whether Redelivery or contacting the recipient directly might be a simpler alternative if the package has already progressed too far for interception.
- Consider reaching out to the current occupant at the delivery address if the package was sent to an old or incorrect location.
When to Contact the Carrier
Contact USPS if you need to request Package Intercept for a shipment already in transit, or to check on the status of an existing intercept request.
USPS: 1-800-275-8777