Carrier Terms Beginner

Scheduled Pickup

Also known as: Regular Pickup, Recurring Pickup, Standing Pickup

Definition

A scheduled pickup is a pre-arranged time when a carrier driver will come to your location to collect packages. This can be a recurring daily/weekly schedule or a one-time booking for specific shipments.

Types of Scheduled Pickups

Recurring/Standing Pickup

  • Same time every day or selected days
  • Consistent driver often assigned
  • Weekly or monthly billing
  • Best for regular shippers

One-Time Scheduled Pickup

  • Booked in advance for specific date
  • Fee per pickup
  • Time window provided
  • Good for occasional or large shipments

Smart/Automatic Pickup

  • Triggered when packages are ready
  • No manual scheduling needed
  • Technology-enabled
  • Combines convenience with efficiency

Setting Up Recurring Pickups

With UPS

  1. Create or log into UPS account
  2. Go to Shipping → Schedule a Pickup
  3. Select “Request Daily Pickup”
  4. Choose days of week
  5. Set preferred time window
  6. Provide location details
  7. Confirm weekly rate

With FedEx

  1. Access FedEx account
  2. Navigate to Pickup options
  3. Choose Regular Scheduled Pickup
  4. Select pickup days
  5. Set time preferences
  6. Enter package volume estimates
  7. Complete setup

With USPS

  1. Schedule at USPS.com/pickup
  2. Select “Package Pickup”
  3. Choose one-time or recurring
  4. Enter address and package info
  5. No cost for standard pickup

Scheduled Pickup Costs

Carrier Recurring Cost One-Time Cost
UPS $30-$45/week $6-$8 each
FedEx $10-$20/week $4-$8 each
USPS Free Free
DHL Account-based Varies

Pickup Time Windows

How It Works

  • You receive a window (e.g., 2-4 PM)
  • Driver arrives within that window
  • Exact time varies by route
  • Premium options for specific times

Typical Windows

Carrier Standard Window Premium Option
UPS 2-4 hours Available
FedEx 2-4 hours Available
USPS With mail delivery On-demand $25
DHL 2 hours 1 hour available

Managing Scheduled Pickups

Canceling a Pickup

  • Cancel before cut-off time
  • Avoid no-show fees
  • Use carrier website or app
  • Call customer service if needed

Modifying Schedule

  • Change days or times online
  • May need advance notice
  • Contact account rep for changes
  • Update for holidays/closures

Holiday Adjustments

  • Carriers provide holiday schedules
  • Reschedule around closures
  • Plan ahead for peak seasons
  • Communicate with customers

Best Practices

Preparing for Pickup

  1. Have packages ready before window starts
  2. Labels applied and readable
  3. Packages in accessible location
  4. Manifest prepared if needed

Pickup Location Setup

  • Designate consistent pickup spot
  • Clear signage for drivers
  • Weather protection if outdoors
  • Easy access path

Communication

  • Provide driver contact number
  • Leave instructions for substitutes
  • Update for building access changes
  • Note special handling needs

Scheduled Pickup vs. Drop-Off

Factor Scheduled Pickup Drop-Off
Convenience High Lower
Cost Fee or volume-based Usually free
Time Set window Your schedule
Cut-off Earlier Later available
Package limits Usually none May have limits

Troubleshooting

Driver Not Arriving

  1. Check scheduled date/time
  2. Confirm address is correct
  3. Wait full window duration
  4. Call carrier customer service
  5. Document for credits if recurring issue

Packages Not Ready in Time

  • Call to cancel/reschedule
  • Avoid wasted trip charges
  • Prepare earlier next time
  • Consider later pickup window
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