UPS is known worldwide for delivering packages to homes and businesses. But one common question many people ask is whether UPS delivers on Sundays. This guide explains how Sunday deliveries work, what services are available, where they’re offered, and how they compare to other delivery companies.
Does UPS Deliver on Sundays?
Yes, UPS does deliver on Sundays, but only through specific services and in selected locations. Not every package is eligible, and not every address is covered. Sunday delivery is often tied to e-commerce shipments, especially from large retailers like Amazon.
What UPS Services Support Sunday Delivery?
UPS offers Sunday delivery through limited services. Each one is designed for different needs:
- UPS Express Critical®
This is UPS’s fastest shipping option. It runs 24/7, 365 days a year—including Sundays. It’s used for urgent shipments like medical equipment or legal documents. - UPS SurePost® (with USPS partnership)
This service is used mostly for lightweight packages. It starts with UPS, but the final delivery is done by the United States Postal Service. Since USPS delivers on Sundays in many areas, SurePost may arrive then. - Amazon Orders Shipped by UPS
Some Amazon Prime orders delivered through UPS may arrive on Sundays. These deliveries are limited to urban ZIP codes where demand is high. - UPS Ground
Regular UPS Ground doesn’t deliver on Sundays unless part of a contract with a retailer like Amazon. In most cases, this service only delivers Monday through Saturday.
Where Does UPS Deliver on Sundays?
Sunday service is mostly limited to large cities and high-volume metro areas. Rural ZIP codes usually don’t qualify.
To check if your location is covered:
- Visit the UPS website and use their Service Availability Tool.
- Enter your ZIP code and see if Sunday delivery is an option.
- Ask the shipper or retailer if Sunday delivery is possible for your order.
UPS uses population density, order volume, and distance from hubs to decide where Sunday delivery is offered.
How to Get a Sunday Delivery with UPS
Getting a package on Sunday depends on a few steps:
- Pick the right service — Choose UPS Express Critical or order through a retailer that offers weekend shipping.
- Ship on time — Missed cutoffs can delay delivery by a full day.
- Track your shipment — Use the UPS website or the UPS app to follow your package in real time.
- Sign up for UPS My Choice® — This free tool lets you get alerts, change delivery times, and more.
How Much Does Sunday Delivery Cost?
Sunday delivery usually costs more than weekday shipping. Here’s what affects the price:
- Service type — Express Critical is the most expensive.
- Delivery location — Urban areas may cost less than rural.
- Package size and weight
- Retailer agreements — Some stores offer free weekend shipping due to high volume.
Always check with the shipper or retailer for exact fees. Amazon Prime, for example, includes Sunday delivery at no extra charge in many areas.
UPS vs FedEx, USPS, and Amazon: Who Delivers Best on Sunday?
Here’s how UPS stacks up against its main rivals:
| Service | Sunday Delivery? | Available Areas | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPS | Yes (limited) | Urban areas | Urgent and Amazon packages |
| FedEx | Yes | Select metro regions | Home delivery, e-commerce |
| USPS | Yes | Many ZIP codes | Small packages, SurePost |
| Amazon | Yes | Prime members | Free Sunday delivery with Prime |
USPS has the widest reach thanks to government support, but UPS and FedEx are faster and more reliable for high-priority shipments.
What If a Sunday Delivery Is Missed?
If a delivery attempt fails on Sunday, UPS may try again the next business day. In some cases, they’ll hold the package at a UPS Access Point near your address. You can pick it up from there during business hours.
Make sure someone is home if your delivery needs a signature. You can also leave instructions through the tracking system.
Will Sunday Deliveries Expand in the Future?
Online shopping continues to grow. To meet demand, UPS is investing in technology and delivery infrastructure. Sunday delivery will likely become more common.
UPS is using:
- AI tools to predict delays
- Electric vehicles to make deliveries faster and greener
- Automation in sorting centers to speed up shipping times
Sunday service could expand to more rural areas if demand grows and logistics improve.
Should You Use UPS for Sunday Deliveries?
Choose UPS Sunday delivery if:
- You have an urgent package
- You live in a major city
- You’re ordering from Amazon or another big online store
- You need fast, reliable weekend service
Skip it if:
- You live in a rural area
- You want budget shipping
- Your package can wait until Monday
Final Thoughts
UPS delivers on Sundays—but only in certain places and through specific services. If speed matters or you’re expecting an Amazon order, UPS might bring your package on Sunday. For other types of shipments, you may need to wait until Monday.
Before placing an order or shipping a package, check your ZIP code and the service used. That way, you won’t be surprised by delivery times.
Have questions about UPS Sunday deliveries? Share your thoughts in the comments or tell us about your experience with weekend shipping. And if you found this helpful, pass it on. Someone else might be wondering the same thing.
