What to do
- Find the pickup location in the tracking details or on the notice.
- Bring government-issued photo ID (and the notice card if you have one).
- Send an authorized agent if you cannot go yourself, following the carrier's authorization rules.
- Collect as soon as possible to avoid return to sender.
How long it usually takes
UPS Access Point: held 7 calendar days. Australia Post Post Office: held 10 business days. USPS Hold For Pickup: returned if not picked up within 15 days (5 for Priority Mail Express).
When to contact the sender or carrier
If the hold period is about to expire and you cannot collect, contact the carrier; Australia Post says extensions are possible in some cases but not guaranteed.
How carriers word it
| Wording on the tracking page | Carrier |
|---|---|
| “Available for Pickup” | USPS |
| “Available for pickup” | Canada Post |
| “Ready for collection” | Royal Mail |
| “Awaiting Customer Pickup” | UPS |
| “Awaiting Collection by Consignee” | DHL Express |
| “Awaiting collection” | Australia Post |
| “Waiting for Pick Up” | Cainiao |
Check your package
Paste your tracking number to open the latest status on the official carrier website.