Scheduling a package pickup is one of the easiest ways to save time and streamline your shipping routine—especially if you’re managing multiple shipments or working from home. Whether you’re returning a package or fulfilling orders for a small business, most major carriers offer reliable pickup services you can access without a special account.

Here’s how to schedule pickups with USPS, UPS, and FedEx in 2025, along with what you need to know before you book.

USPS Package Pickup (Free for Most Services)

The United States Postal Service offers a free pickup service for packages being shipped via:

• Priority Mail
  
• Priority Mail Express
  
• First-Class Package Service
  
• USPS Ground Advantage (if combined with one of the above)
  

To schedule a pickup, visit the official USPS Schedule a Pickup page. You can choose a free next-day pickup during your normal mail delivery window or request a pickup at a specific time for a small fee.

Make sure the package has prepaid postage. You can buy and print labels through a third-party provider like Pirate Ship.

UPS Pickup Options (Flexible but Fee-Based)

UPS provides more pickup flexibility, though many options come with a fee. To schedule a pickup, visit the UPS Pickup Services page.

Available services include:

• One-Time Pickup: Flat fee, ideal for occasional senders
  
• Daily Pickup: Best for high-volume shippers
  
• Smart Pickup: Automatically schedules a pickup only on days you ship
  

Pickup requests must be made before your local UPS cutoff time. Packages should have prepaid UPS labels, which can be created directly through UPS or a platform like Shippo.

To save on costs, consider paying for your UPS labels using cashback options like get rewards with a UPS gift card from Fluz.

FedEx Pickup Services (Available for Business and Personal Use)

FedEx also offers pickup services for both businesses and individuals. You can schedule a pickup through your FedEx account or by calling customer service.

Pickup options include:

• Express Pickup (FedEx Express services)
  
• Ground Pickup (businesses only)
  
• On-Call Pickup (one-time fee-based option)
  

FedEx typically charges for scheduled pickups unless you have a regular volume-based account. You can also drop off labeled packages at FedEx Office locations if that’s more convenient.

Helpful Tips for Smooth Pickups

• Label your packages correctly. Make sure labels are printed and affixed securely.
  
• Place packages in a visible area. Carriers may not ring the bell—clearly mark where to pick up.
  
• Consolidate pickups. If possible, group multiple packages for a single pickup to avoid extra charges.
  
• Schedule in advance. Try to book your pickup at least 24 hours ahead to ensure availability.
  
• Use a scale. To avoid pricing mistakes, weigh and measure your packages accurately.
  

Conclusion

Scheduling pickups with USPS, UPS, or FedEx makes shipping easier, especially when paired with prepaid labels and cashback savings. USPS is your go-to for free, everyday pickups. UPS and FedEx offer more options for high-volume or flexible senders. No matter which carrier you use, scheduling pickups saves time, reduces trips to drop-off locations, and keeps your shipping process running smoothly.