How to Become an Authorized Shipping Outlet for UPS

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

If you want to handle packages for UPS, one way is to become an Authorized Shipping Outlet (ASO). We can help you do this, or we'll walk you through one of the alternatives if your business doesn't meet the ASO requirements.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Applying as an ASO

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/79\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/79\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-1-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-1-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You might be able to become an ASO if you run a store for one of these 3 franchises. These stores have franchise national account contracts with UPS as Authorized Shipping Outlets. [1]
    • This store must be your primary business and have a customer counter so you can receive packages. UPS requires that your store has regular hours of operation on weekdays (Monday through Friday). You may decide if you are open on Saturdays. [2]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-2-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-2-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    In addition to managing one of the approved franchises, you must provide packing services and help to customers. Additionally, provide UPS packing materials at no cost and accept UPS packages at no charge. [3]
    • You'll also need a calibrated scale that measures at least 100 pounds (45 kg).
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-3-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-3-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-3-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-3-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    To apply to become an ASO, send your contact information to the UPS so they can review it. Include your full name and the name of your retail store. Also, list your store's address, phone number, fax number, and email address. [4]
    • After reviewing your eligibility and application, UPS will contact you to let you know if your application was approved and advise you of the next steps.
    4. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Registering as a UPS Access Point

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3d\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-4-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-4-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    If you already operate a retail packing and shipping business, you can register as a UPS Access Point via the Access Point Candidate System. Go to https://apcsext.ups.com/apcs-ext/accessPointRegistration.do?locale=en_US and click "Apply Now."
    • Fill out the form with your contact information, shop type, accepted payments, and store hours. Be sure to submit the application when you've filled in all of the required information. [5]
    • You don't need an online store to become a UPS Access Point.
    • Contact UPS directly with any questions about the application process.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/ef\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/ef\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-5-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-5-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    You need an Android device with Android 6 or later, [6] or an Apple device with iOs 8, an iPhone 7, or an iPad 5 or later to download the app. [7]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-6-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-6-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    UPS makes becoming and maintaining an Access Point easy. They will provide training to you and your staff to get the Access Point up and running. Furthermore, they will equip your business with the necessary technology and support to ensure that you can fulfill your UPS Access Point responsibilities.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/48\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-7-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-7-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    People sending packages through UPS will also be able to leave these items at your Access Point. These will include new packages assembled by the sender, as well as returns. UPS drivers will collect these whenever they stop at the Access Point.
    • You'll also accept parcels and packages from UPS drivers and store them at your location so UPS customers can come and pick up their packages at their convenience.
    5. Advertisement
Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Becoming a UPS Authorized Service Provider

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d6\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-8-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-8-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Package Express Centers (PEC) provides a one-page questionnaire to help determine your business’s eligibility to open a UPS Authorized Service Provider. Go to https://www.packageexpresscenters.com/form and input all of the required information. [8]
    • Fill in details such as your contact information, information about your store including the size and business hours, your annual sales, the average number of customers you serve daily, and all other required fields.
    • After submitting the form, an account manager from PEC will evaluate whether or not a UPS Authorized Service Provider would be viable at your location.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-9-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-9-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-9-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-9-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    The PEC website includes a contact page with several options. Fill out a form to contact them via their website, call PEC is to call 1-800-274-4732, or email info@packageexpresscenters.com. [9]
    • Additional contact information will be provided to you for support once your UPS Authorized Service Provider begins operation.
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/91\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/91\/Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-10-Version-3.jpg\/aid1488650-v4-728px-Become-an-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet-for-UPS-Step-10-Version-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Essentially, Package Express Centers has teamed up with UPS to manage in-store UPS Authorized Service Providers. Consider PEC to be your proxy to UPS. PEC will not only review your application, but they will also guide you through the implementation process of a Authorized Service Provider if your business is deemed eligible.
    • As an independent retailer, you will receive support mostly from PEC.
    • PEC’s primary role will be increasing traffic to your store. They do this by providing almost everything you need.
    • Specifically, PEC will provide UPS certified software and signs, hardware, training, marketing material, and round-the-clock live support.
    4. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    What kind of payment does UPS offer for setting up a Commercial Counter?
    Community Answer
    UPS pays some Commercial Counters for accepting drop-off packages. These types of payments are based on several factors. Contact PEC directly at 800-274-4732 to determine whether your business may be eligible.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 6 Helpful 19
  • Question
    How do I set up operations with UPS?
    Community Answer
    Contact PEC. The phone number is listed above. They will help you get set up to ship with UPS. They do all the paperwork for you and make everything very easy.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 1 Helpful 3
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Use Ratchet Straps
      How to Contact FedEx
      How to
      Track a Package Without a Tracking Number
      What Does “In Transit” Mean & How Long Will It Take to Get Your Package?
      What Does "Out for Delivery" Mean?
      How to
      Contact Postmates
      What to Do When Your UPS Package Is Missing (But Says Delivered)
      How to Measure a Box for Shipping
      How to
      Use a Uline Strapping Tool
      ​​Tipping Furniture Delivery Workers: Is It the Norm?
      How to
      Ship a Package with UPS
      How to
      Find a USPS Tracking Number
      What Does “Package Being Processed at Carrier Facility” Mean?
      How to
      Ship Air Freight
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.rscentral.org/Programs/Authorized-Shipper-Programs/UPS-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet#63048-getting-started
      2. ↑ https://www.rscentral.org/Programs/Authorized-Shipper-Programs/UPS-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet#63047-program-highlights
      3. ↑ https://www.rscentral.org/Programs/Authorized-Shipper-Programs/UPS-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet#63047-program-highlights
      4. ↑ https://www.rscentral.org/Programs/Authorized-Shipper-Programs/UPS-Authorized-Shipping-Outlet#63048-getting-started
      5. ↑ https://apcsext.ups.com/apcs-ext/externalRegistration.do
      6. ↑ https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.ups.mobile.android&hl=en&gl=US
      7. ↑ https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ups-mobile/id336377331
      8. ↑ https://www.packageexpresscenters.com/about
      9. ↑ https://www.packageexpresscenters.com/contact

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 83,435 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Shakil Miah

        Nov 14, 2016

        "This is very helpful."
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement