Does UPS Deliver On Sunday? Hours & Holiday Schedule

# Does UPS Ship on Sundays? Delivery Days & Hours Explained

Shipping and receiving packages can sometimes feel like a guessing game, especially when it comes to weekend deliveries. One of the most common questions we get is: **Does UPS ship on Sundays?** The short answer is that standard UPS delivery services generally do *not* operate on Sundays. However, there are some exceptions and alternative options available. 

In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down UPS's operating days, weekend services, and holiday schedules. We’ll also explore alternative shipping methods and answer frequently asked questions to give you a complete understanding of UPS delivery options.

## Understanding UPS Standard Delivery Days

UPS primarily operates on weekdays, from Monday to Friday. Standard ground and air services are typically delivered during these days. So, if you're expecting a package or planning to send one, these are the core days to keep in mind.

*   **Monday to Friday:** Regular delivery operations for most services.
*   **Saturday:** Limited services available (more on this below).
*   **Sunday:** Standard delivery is generally not available.

## UPS Sunday Delivery: When Is It Possible?

While Sunday delivery isn't the norm for UPS, it isn't entirely impossible. UPS offers a service called **UPS Express Critical**, which provides delivery 365 days a year, including Sundays and holidays. However, this premium service comes at a higher cost and is typically used for urgent or time-sensitive shipments.

Another instance where you might receive a UPS delivery on Sunday is if the sender has opted for **UPS Saturday Delivery** and the package experiences a delay. In such cases, UPS may attempt to deliver on Sunday to ensure the package arrives as quickly as possible.

## UPS Saturday Delivery: An Alternative Option

For those needing weekend deliveries, UPS offers Saturday Delivery in many areas. This service covers a range of options, including:

*   **UPS Next Day Air Saturday Delivery:** For urgent shipments that need to arrive by the end of the day on Saturday.
*   **UPS 2nd Day Air Saturday Delivery:** For packages that need to arrive within two business days, with delivery on Saturday.
*   **UPS Ground Saturday Delivery:** Available in select areas, this option ensures ground shipments arrive on Saturday.

It's worth noting that Saturday Delivery may not be available in all locations, and there may be additional charges. Always check with UPS directly or use their online calculator to confirm availability and costs for your specific shipment.

## UPS Holiday Schedule: How It Affects Deliveries

Holidays can also impact UPS delivery schedules. Typically, UPS observes the following holidays:

*   New Year's Day
*   Martin Luther King Jr. Day
*   Presidents' Day
*   Memorial Day
*   Juneteenth
*   Independence Day
*   Labor Day
*   Thanksgiving Day
*   Christmas Day

On these days, standard UPS services are usually suspended. However, UPS Express Critical may still be available. It's crucial to check the UPS website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on holiday schedules, as these can vary slightly each year.

## Alternative Shipping Methods for Weekend Deliveries

If you need a package delivered on a Sunday and UPS isn't your best option, consider these alternatives:

*   **USPS (United States Postal Service):** USPS offers Sunday delivery for Priority Mail Express in many locations, as well as regular mail delivery in select areas through their partnership with Amazon.
*   **FedEx:** FedEx offers Sunday delivery through its FedEx SameDay service, which is designed for urgent shipments.
*   **Amazon:** Amazon utilizes its own delivery network, which includes Sunday deliveries in many areas, especially for Prime members.

When choosing a shipping method, consider the urgency of your package, your budget, and the specific delivery options available in your area.

## How to Check UPS Delivery Options and Schedules

To get the most accurate information about UPS delivery options and schedules, there are several resources you can use:

*   **UPS Website:** The UPS website ([UPS.com](https://www.ups.com/)) provides a wealth of information, including service details, holiday schedules, and shipping rates. You can also use the "Calculate Time & Cost" tool to estimate delivery times and costs for your specific shipment.
*   **UPS Customer Service:** You can contact UPS customer service by phone or through their online chat. Representatives can provide detailed information about services, delivery schedules, and any specific questions you may have.
*   **UPS Mobile App:** The UPS mobile app allows you to track packages, manage deliveries, and find UPS locations. You can also use the app to get delivery estimates and manage your preferences.

## Tips for Ensuring Timely Deliveries

To make sure your packages arrive when you need them to, consider these tips:

*   **Plan Ahead:** If you need a package delivered by a specific date, ship it well in advance to account for potential delays or unexpected circumstances.
*   **Check Delivery Schedules:** Always check the UPS website or contact customer service to confirm delivery schedules, especially around holidays.
*   **Use Tracking:** UPS provides tracking numbers for all shipments. Use this to monitor your package's progress and get updates on its delivery status.
*   **Consider Saturday Delivery:** If you need weekend delivery, opt for UPS Saturday Delivery if it's available in your area.
*   **Explore Alternative Options:** If UPS doesn't meet your needs, consider other shipping carriers like USPS or FedEx.

## FAQ About UPS Sunday Delivery

**1. Does UPS deliver on Sundays?**

   Standard UPS delivery services generally do not operate on Sundays. However, UPS Express Critical is available 365 days a year, including Sundays, for urgent shipments. In rare cases, a package may be delivered on Sunday if it was delayed from a Saturday delivery.

**2. What is UPS Express Critical?**

   UPS Express Critical is a premium service that offers delivery 365 days a year, including Sundays and holidays. It is designed for urgent or time-sensitive shipments and comes at a higher cost.

**3. Does UPS offer Saturday Delivery?**

   Yes, UPS offers Saturday Delivery in many areas. This service includes UPS Next Day Air Saturday Delivery, UPS 2nd Day Air Saturday Delivery, and UPS Ground Saturday Delivery (in select areas). Check with UPS to confirm availability and costs for your specific shipment.

**4. What holidays does UPS observe?**

   UPS typically observes New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Standard services are usually suspended on these days, but UPS Express Critical may still be available.

**5. How can I check the status of my UPS package?**

   You can track your package using the tracking number provided by UPS. Enter the tracking number on the UPS website or mobile app to get updates on the delivery status.

**6. What are alternative shipping options for Sunday delivery?**

   If UPS doesn't meet your Sunday delivery needs, consider USPS (which offers Sunday delivery for Priority Mail Express in many locations), FedEx (through its FedEx SameDay service), or Amazon (which utilizes its own delivery network for Sunday deliveries).

## Conclusion

While UPS standard delivery services typically do not operate on Sundays, there are exceptions like UPS Express Critical and occasional Sunday deliveries due to delays. Understanding your options—including Saturday Delivery and alternative carriers like USPS and FedEx—can help you ensure your packages arrive when you need them. Always check the UPS website or contact customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding delivery schedules and services.

Remember to plan ahead, use tracking tools, and explore all available options to make your shipping experience as smooth as possible. Whether it's a last-minute gift or an urgent business document, knowing the ins and outs of weekend deliveries can save you time and stress.

**Ready to ship your package?** Visit the UPS website to calculate rates and schedule your delivery today!