When is my box going to be delivered to me? This is a common question fielded by The UPS Store employees. The fact is that The UPS Store locations have nothing to do with delivering packages. Their role in the UPS system is to facilitate shipping.

The local hub facility is responsible for delivering packages to the local area. They receive tractor trailer loads of packages to be sorted and loaded onto trucks throughout the night so that when the drivers come in, they can begin their delivery route.

Of course, Air delivery packages have priority. Since they generally have a 10:30 a.m. guaranteed delivery time, these packages have to be delivered first. Since it is easier to find businesses, commercial establishments are the next priority. Businesses generally close by 5:00 p.m., so UPS tries to get these packages delivered between 10:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.. Keep in mind that there is no guaranteed time for delivery of ground packages. If the truck is still driving around at 10:00 p.m. and your package gets delivered that late in the day, your packages is considered to be delivered "on time." Finally, residential deliveries are the lowest priority. They are generally more difficult to find (unless you buy from QVC or HSN every day and you are on a first-name basis with your UPS driver!) since they sometimes have no house number markings. They are also more expensive for the same reason.

The local hub facilities have no listed telephone number in the phone book. When you call information, you are given a telephone number for the The UPS Store nearest to the hub. Most hub facilities do not allow The UPS Store employees to give out the unlisted number. You can always call 1-800-PICK-UPS (1-800-742-5877) for information about your package. Use your local The UPS Store location for expert packaging and outbound shipping services.