Amazon is one of the biggest companies in the e-commerce sector, and in 2021 they shipped an estimated 7.7 billion packages worldwide and generated nearly $470 billion in sales. Amazon is famous for its speedy door-to-door delivery, but does Amazon deliver to PO Boxes?
Amazon does deliver to PO Boxes, but there are some restrictions. Same-day and two-day delivery is not possible when using a PO box address. Some items cannot be delivered to PO Boxes, and some carrier companies that Amazon uses do not deliver to PO Boxes.
If you’re located outside an Amazon delivery zone, you may consider using a PO box instead to receive packages. While Amazon offers PO box deliveries, their deliveries are handled by third-party services like FedEx, DHL, and UPS. These companies don’t always deliver to PO boxes, so it’s best to check that your package can be delivered to your PO box before placing your order.
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Can Amazon Deliver All Packages To PO Box?
Amazon can deliver all packages to a PO box; however, not all carrier services which Amazon uses will deliver to a PO box. Some shipping companies require a physical address for delivery and do not consider a PO box address a physical address.
That said, in most cases, Amazon will ship your package to your PO box. If not you can use the help of a service.
If a third-party carrier is delivering your parcel and they do not support PO box deliveries, there is an increased likelihood your package will be returned or could even get lost. As a precaution, it’s best to also include a physical address as the return address should the carrier not be able to deliver to your PO box.
How To Use PO Box As Your Shipping Address On Amazon?
To get your Amazon package delivered to your PO box, you’ll need to fill out your address correctly when entering your shipping information. To ensure your package is delivered to your PO box, follow these simple guidelines:
- Put the PO box number in the first line of the shipping address field
- Avoid putting any other information in any of the other address fields
- As long as your PO box number is in the first line of the shipping address field, Amazon will read it as a PO box address, and it will be the sole shipping address for delivery.
How Do I Enter A PO Box Address On Amazon?
Amazon will let you know if your order can be shipped to your PO box when you fill in your delivery details. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to enter your delivery information for Amazon to deliver your package to your PO box:
- Log in to your Amazon account. Log in to your Amazon account, select the “your account” tab and click on “address book.” If you don’t have an exisitng Amazon account, you can create one and then sign into your Amazon account.
- Check out. Select the products you want to purchase and add them to your cart. Once the items are in your cart, select “checkout” and then select the “enter shipping address” option.
- Enter shipping information. When you get to the shipping address page, Start filling in your details and add your full PO box address in the first line of the address field. The second address line should be left blank.
- Complete your purchase and checkout. Once you’ve completed the shipping information, navigate to the “save and continue” button and continue with the checkout process until your order has been confirmed.
Shipping From Amazon To PO Box: Pros And Cons
The diverse shipping options from Amazon make it an easy choice when shopping online. But what are some pros and cons of using a PO Box for amazon deliveries?
Amazon Shipping To A PO Box
Pros
Delivery to a PO Box can be a bit faster than standard delivery as they are situated along delivery routes
PO Boxes are a good address option for those who move around a lot
Business owners may prefer to keep a PO Box for deliveries rather than using their personal address
A PO Box offers security for those who like to keep their home address private.
Cons
Your PO Box address has to be filled in the first line in the address field when entering the shipping information to ensure successful delivery.
Large packages will be kept by the post office and not placed in your PO Box
Your package may get lost in the mail.
Only some carriers support PO Box deliveries which means your parcel may not be able to be delivered to your PO Box
Some sellers on Amazon find PO Box addresses suspicious and may be hesitant to sell to someone using a PO Box.
Why Won’t Amazon Ship To PO Box?
Have you entered your shipping information only to discover that Amazon won’t deliver to your PO Box? There are three common reasons why Amazon won’t ship to a PO Box. These include:
- Independent carrier restrictions. Some independent carriers do not support PO Box deliveries and will only deliver to a physical address.
- A signature is required on some packages. Certain package deliveries require a signature. These are usually packages of high value, like televisions, laptops, and other expensive items. Because these items have a high value, it’s not safe to ship them to a PO Box address.
- Package size and weight restrictions. PO Boxes come in various sizes. When you place an order, and it’s too large or too heavy for your PO Box, it may not be placed in your PO Box. In cases like this, it may be delivered to your nearest Post Office or returned, lost, or considered undeliverable.
Where Can You Send An Amazon Package If They Won’t Deliver To Your PO Box?
If you are traveling or don’t want to use your physical address and Amazon won’t deliver to your PO Box, there are a few alternative options. Here are a few options you can use to get your Amazon package delivered if they can’t deliver to your PO Box:
- UPS store. The UPS store accepts Amazon packages and will hold onto them for a limited period. Once you reach a UPS store, you’ll need to verify your identity before they hand over the package.
- Amazon hub locker. An Amazon hub locker is a secure locker in a designated location. Once you get notified that the package has arrived at an Amazon hub locker, all you need to do is collect it. Amazon hub lockers are located in malls and stores, and to use this shipping method; you need to add the hub locker address under your shipping information when checking out on Amazon.
- Family member or neighbor. Consider asking a neighbor or someone close to you if they would accept your package for you if they have a street address. Just make sure to put in their address and their name when checking out on Amazon. Should they be required to sign for it, there will be no issue.
These options are great if you’re on vacation for example. However, if you’re a digital nomad or an expat traveling long term, without a permanent address, there are other options available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Using a PO Box for Amazon deliveries is convenient and may be the best option you have for receiving packages. But what happens if the package is too big for your PO Box, and what items can’t be delivered to a PO Box?
What Happens If The Package Is Too Big For PO Box?
Depending on what the item is and if it can be successfully delivered, the package will be kept at the post office if it is too big for the PO Box.
The post office will notify you by leaving a pickup notice in your post box or via text to collect your package at the counter.
What Cannot Be Delivered To A PO Box?
Items that exceed the weight restrictions cannot be delivered to a PO Box. Costly items will also not be delivered to a PO Box. Small perishables and items like explosives, lithium batteries, alcohol, plants, and a few different types of liquids are also prohibited.
Generally, when placing an order with Amazon and adding your PO Box, Amazon will notify you if your order cannot be delivered to your PO Box.
Amazon does deliver to PO Boxes, but some of their third-party carriers will only deliver packages to a physical address. The best way to determine if your package can be delivered to your PO Box is to add your PO Box information to the shipping section, and Amazon will inform you if delivery is possible to your PO Box.