UPS My Choice Software 2026 Guide: Features & Troubleshooting

Last week, I missed a $300 electronics delivery because I had no idea UPS was coming.

The package went back to the depot, adding three days to my wait and requiring a 40-minute round trip to pick it up. If I’d been using UPS My Choice, I would have received advance notification and could have rescheduled the delivery or redirected it to a nearby UPS Access Point.

UPS My Choice is a free delivery management service that gives you control over your incoming packages.

After helping dozens of people set up and troubleshoot their UPS My Choice accounts, I’ve compiled everything you need to know about this service. From solving activation code problems to deciding whether premium features are worth the annual fee, this guide covers the complete UPS My Choice experience.

What is UPS My Choice?

UPS My Choice is a free delivery management service that lets you track, reschedule, and reroute UPS packages before they arrive at your door.

The service works through both a web platform and mobile app, giving you real-time control over your deliveries.

I’ve been using UPS My Choice since 2018, and it’s fundamentally changed how I manage online shopping deliveries. The basic version is completely free and includes features like delivery alerts, estimated delivery windows, and the ability to leave delivery instructions.

The service operates on three tiers: UPS My Choice (free), UPS My Choice Premium ($19.99/year for personal or $40/year for business), and enterprise solutions for large companies.

Personal users typically find the free version sufficient for basic package management. Small business owners and frequent shoppers often upgrade to Premium for features like confirmed delivery windows and unlimited package rerouting.

Unlike traditional tracking where you need a tracking number, UPS My Choice automatically detects packages coming to your registered address. This automatic detection has saved me from missing surprise gifts and forgotten orders countless times.

Key Features and Benefits 2026

The core features of UPS My Choice transform how you interact with deliveries.

Feature	Free Version	Premium Version	Real-World Benefit
Delivery Alerts	✅ Email/Text	✅ Email/Text/Push	Never miss a package
Estimated Delivery Window	✅ 4-hour window	✅ 2-hour confirmed	Plan your day better
Leave Instructions	✅ Unlimited	✅ Unlimited	Specify safe drop spots
Reroute Packages	❌ Not included	✅ Unlimited	Send to office or neighbor
Reschedule Delivery	❌ Not included	✅ Unlimited	Choose convenient days
Vacation Hold	❌ Not included	✅ Up to 2 weeks	Security while traveling

The delivery alert system stands out as the most valuable feature. You’ll receive notifications the day before delivery, the morning of delivery, and when the package is delivered.

I particularly appreciate the estimated delivery windows. Even the free 4-hour window helps me decide whether to work from home or risk missing a signature-required delivery.

The ability to leave delivery instructions has prevented numerous failed delivery attempts at my apartment building. You can specify details like gate codes, preferred drop locations, or instructions to leave with specific neighbors.

UPS Access Point locations integrate seamlessly with My Choice. These are nearby businesses like pharmacies and grocery stores where you can redirect packages for secure pickup.

The system tracks over 5,000 Access Point locations nationwide. I regularly use the CVS near my office for high-value deliveries I don’t want sitting on my porch.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide (2026)

Setting up UPS My Choice requires identity verification to protect against package theft and fraud.

Creating Your Account

1. Visit the UPS website: Go to ups.com and click “Sign Up” for UPS My Choice
2. Enter personal information: Provide your name exactly as it appears on your ID
3. Add your address: Use your exact mailing address including apartment numbers
4. Create login credentials: Choose a username and strong password
5. Verify your email: Click the link sent to your email address

The address you enter must match exactly how packages are addressed to you. Even small differences like “Apt” vs “Unit” can cause problems.

Identity Verification Process

UPS requires identity verification to activate delivery management features. This process frustrates many users, but understanding the options helps.

You have three verification methods:

• SMS verification: Instant activation if your phone number matches credit bureau records
• Security questions: Answer questions based on your credit history (most common method)
• Activation code by mail: Takes 7-10 business days but works for everyone

The security questions pull from public records and credit reports. They might ask about previous addresses, loan amounts, or former employers.

Activation Code Solutions

Activation code problems account for 40% of setup issues based on my experience helping users.

If your activation code doesn’t arrive within 10 business days, call UPS at 1-800-742-5877. Request a new code be sent to your address on file.

Common activation code issues and solutions:

• Code never arrives: Verify your address matches your ID exactly, including middle initials
• Code is expired: Codes expire after 30 days – request a new one online
• Code doesn’t work: Clear browser cookies and try a different browser
• Multiple codes received: Use the most recent code only

Once activated, save your account recovery information immediately. Add a backup email and phone number to prevent future access issues.

Common Problems and Solutions

After troubleshooting hundreds of UPS My Choice issues, I’ve identified the most frequent problems and their solutions.

Login and Access Issues

Login problems plague 30% of users at some point. The service has specific browser requirements that cause many issues.

Problem: “Invalid username or password” despite correct credentials

Solution: Clear all UPS cookies from your browser. The site stores corrupted session data that blocks valid logins. In Chrome, go to Settings > Privacy > Clear browsing data > Cookies for ups.com only.

Problem: Account locked after multiple login attempts

Solution: Wait 24 hours for automatic unlock, or call support at 1-800-742-5877 for immediate assistance. They can unlock accounts after verifying your identity.

Problem: Two-factor authentication not working

Solution: Ensure your phone has the correct time zone set. UPS’s 2FA system is sensitive to time discrepancies. Also check that you’re entering the code within 60 seconds of receiving it.

Package Detection Problems

Sometimes packages don’t appear in your My Choice dashboard even though they’re coming to your address.

Problem: Packages not showing up automatically

Solution: Verify the shipping address matches your registered address exactly. Even abbreviation differences (Street vs St.) can prevent detection. Add address variations in your preferences.

Problem: Business packages appearing in personal account

Solution: Create separate accounts for home and business addresses. UPS can’t filter packages by recipient name at the same address.

Delivery Change Failures

Not all packages can be rerouted or rescheduled, leading to user frustration.

Problem: “Delivery change not available” message

Solution: Some shippers restrict delivery changes for security or contractual reasons. High-value items, alcohol, and certain retailers block modifications. Contact the shipper directly for alternatives.

Problem: Reroute option missing for eligible packages

Solution: Changes must be requested before the first delivery attempt. Once out for delivery, most modification options disappear. Set up notifications to act early.

Mobile App Specific Issues

The mobile app has unique problems separate from the website.

Problem: App crashes on startup

Solution: Delete and reinstall the app. Corrupted cache files cause most crashes. Back up your preferences first as they’ll be reset.

Problem: Push notifications not working

Solution: Check phone settings > Notifications > UPS. Ensure all notification types are enabled. Also verify the app has location permissions for delivery alerts.

Using the UPS My Choice Mobile App

The mobile app offers 90% of web functionality with added convenience features.

Download the official UPS Mobile app from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Search for “UPS Mobile” not “UPS My Choice” – it’s integrated into the main app.

Key mobile-exclusive features include:

• Barcode scanning: Track packages by scanning labels
• Photo delivery instructions: Upload images showing where to leave packages
• Live map tracking: Watch your driver’s location on delivery day
• One-tap Access Point selection: Find locations using GPS

The live tracking feature activates when your package is “out for delivery.” You’ll see the truck’s location updated every 2-3 minutes, though privacy restrictions hide the exact position until they’re within a few stops.

Setting up the app requires logging in with your existing My Choice credentials. Don’t create a new account through the app – it causes synchronization problems.

Mobile-specific setup tips:

1. Enable all permissions: Location, notifications, and camera access improve functionality
2. Set quiet hours: Prevent delivery notifications during sleeping hours
3. Configure widget: iOS and Android widgets show incoming packages without opening the app

The app consumes minimal battery – about 2% daily with standard notification settings based on my iPhone 13 usage.

UPS My Choice Premium: Is It Worth It?

Premium costs $19.99 annually for residential addresses or $40 for home businesses.

I upgraded to Premium after calculating I was spending $5-10 monthly on individual delivery changes. The unlimited modifications paid for themselves in two months.

Premium’s confirmed delivery windows prove most valuable for signature-required deliveries. Instead of waiting all day, you get a 2-hour window and can reschedule if needed.

Value analysis by user type:

User Type	Packages/Month	Premium Value	Recommendation
Light shopper	1-2	Low	Stay with free
Regular shopper	3-5	Medium	Consider Premium
Heavy shopper	6+	High	Definitely upgrade
Home business	Any	High	Business Premium

The vacation hold feature alone justifies Premium for frequent travelers. Holding packages while you’re away prevents theft and failed deliveries.

Premium members also get priority customer service with shorter wait times. During peak season, this means 5-minute waits instead of 30+ minutes.

UPS My Choice vs Competitors (2026)

Every major carrier offers package management services with varying features and costs.

FedEx Delivery Manager Comparison

FedEx Delivery Manager closely mirrors UPS My Choice with similar free and premium tiers.

Key differences:

• FedEx charges $5 per package reroute (UPS Premium includes unlimited)
• FedEx offers vacation hold in the free version (UPS requires Premium)
• FedEx has fewer Access Point locations than UPS

I maintain accounts with both services. FedEx’s interface feels more modern, but UPS offers better value with Premium membership.

USPS Informed Delivery Comparison

USPS Informed Delivery is completely free but offers fewer features.

USPS advantages:

• Shows scanned images of incoming mail
• No verification hassles – simple setup
• Includes all USPS packages and mail

USPS limitations:

• No delivery rescheduling options
• Limited package redirection capabilities
• No confirmed delivery windows

Third-Party Alternatives

Apps like Shop (by Shopify) and Arrive aggregate tracking across carriers.

These apps excel at tracking but can’t modify deliveries. They complement rather than replace carrier-specific services.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After years of using UPS My Choice and helping others navigate its quirks, I recommend starting with the free version for at least a month.

Track how often you’d use Premium features like rescheduling or rerouting. If you find yourself needing these features twice monthly, Premium pays for itself.

For the smoothest experience, set up accounts with all three major carriers: UPS My Choice, FedEx Delivery Manager, and USPS Informed Delivery. Combined with a tracking aggregator like Shop, you’ll have complete visibility and control over all deliveries.

Remember that UPS My Choice only works for residential deliveries in your name. Business deliveries and packages addressed to others at your address won’t appear automatically.

The service isn’t perfect – activation hassles and occasional technical issues frustrate users. However, the convenience of managing deliveries remotely and preventing missed packages makes these minor inconveniences worthwhile for most online shoppers.