Does Staples Do UPS Drop Off? Everything You Need to Know
If you have an online return to make or a package to send out, you might be wondering: does Staples do UPS drop off? The short answer is yes, but with a few important caveats you need to know before you make the trip.
Staples stores across the United States partner with major shipping carriers to provide convenient mailing services for everyday consumers and small business owners. However, because most Staples locations function as authorized shipping outlets rather than official standalone carrier hubs, there are specific guidelines regarding what they can accept.
In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about dropping off UPS packages at Staples, including preparation steps, package limitations, and alternative options if your local store cannot take your item.
Does Staples Do UPS Drop Off Services?
Yes, the vast majority of Staples retail locations act as drop-off points for UPS. This partnership allows you to bring pre-labeled packages into the store and leave them with a retail associate, saving you a trip to a dedicated UPS Store or customer center.
However, it is vital to understand how this service works:
- Pre-paid labels are required: Staples staff cannot generate new UPS shipping labels, weigh unlabelled boxes for custom quotes, or charge you standard retail UPS shipping rates at the register. Your package must already have a valid, scannable UPS shipping or return label attached to it.
- Drop-off only: You are essentially using Staples as a secure handover point. A UPS driver picks up these packages daily during their regular delivery routes.
- Receipts: When you hand your package to the associate, you can request a drop-off receipt for your records. This receipt serves as proof that the package was handed over to the carrier, which is crucial if tracking does not update immediately.
What Types of UPS Packages Can You Drop Off at Staples?
While Staples makes package drop-offs easy, they do not accept every type of shipment. To ensure your trip is successful, review the following guidelines before heading out.
Pre-Labeled Returns
By far the most common reason people search for "does Staples do UPS drop off" is to handle e-commerce returns. If Amazon, Target, or another major retailer provides you with a prepaid UPS return label, you can securely tape it to your box or poly mailer and drop it off at Staples.
Video: Amazon taking returns at Staples, but know this possible catch
Pre-Paid Ground and Air Shipments
If you purchase a UPS shipping label online through a platform like eBay, Etsy, or Shippo, you can attach the label and drop the parcel at Staples. As long as the barcode is clear and scannable, the store will accept it into their outgoing mail stream.
What Staples Cannot Accept
Because Staples stores are standard retail environments, they have strict safety and logistical limits. You generally cannot drop off:
- Packages requiring custom label creation or postage calculation at the counter.
- Hazardous materials, including lithium batteries, flammables, or aerosols that violate standard carrier safety policies.
- Extremely oversized or heavy freight packages that exceed the weight and dimension limits of standard retail drop-offs (usually anything over 50 pounds or exceeding specific linear dimensions).
- Cash-on-delivery (COD) shipments or packages requiring special handling signatures that must be initiated at a UPS customer center.
How to Prepare Your UPS Package for Staples
To ensure a smooth drop-off experience, follow these simple preparation steps:
- Secure the Package: Ensure your item is safely boxed and sealed with strong packaging tape. Staples employees will not provide packing supplies or tape for drop-off items unless you purchase them in the store.
- Attach the Label Properly: Make sure the UPS tracking barcode is completely flat, visible, and free of wrinkles or tape glare that might prevent the scanner from reading it.
- Get a Receipt: Always wait for the associate to scan your package and print a drop-off receipt. This provides tracking proof in case the package gets lost in transit before the main UPS driver picks it up.
Alternatives If Your Local Staples Cannot Accept UPS
If your nearest Staples store has temporarily suspended its carrier drop-off program, or if your package requires specialized handling, you have several alternative options:
- The UPS Store: Dedicated UPS Stores handle all shipping needs, including custom packing, label printing, and freight drop-offs.
- UPS Drop Boxes: Secure outdoor drop boxes are located in various commercial areas for small pre-labeled packages.
- Authorized Shipping Outlets: Many local pharmacies, grocers, and independent mail centers also partner with UPS.
Ultimately, utilizing Staples for your UPS drop-offs is a massive time-saver for standard returns and pre-labeled boxes. Just remember to pack your items securely, attach your label in advance, and request a receipt before you leave the store.
