Mail and Package Safety

Receiving mail and packages can feel like a little piece of home—or a much-needed delivery of essentials. To ensure your items arrive safely and securely (and actually reach your hands), it’s essential to follow a few simple steps when placing your orders.

---

Always use your full name for deliveries.

When placing an order, please use your full legal name as it appears in Workday. Using nicknames or initials could delay delivery or cause your package to be misplaced.

Time your shipping wisely.

Avoid choosing same-day or overnight delivery if it means your package will arrive outside of business hours (9 a.m.–5 p.m., weekdays). Deliveries attempted at night or off-hours are more likely to cause issues.

Skip weekend deliveries.

Major mail carriers are not supposed to deliver packages to WashU residences on Saturdays or Sundays, so it’s best to avoid the weekend if you have the option to select a delivery date.

Choosing weekday delivery ensures your package arrives when Mail and Receiving Services staff are available to receive it, preventing it from being left outside.

Add delivery notes for drivers.

When checking out, use the “delivery notes” section to request that drivers drop off your package at a mail center, not at your residence. This helps keep your packages secure until you can collect them.

Avoid PIN-required deliveries.

Some shipping options require a PIN for delivery. If you select this option, your package may be returned to the sender. To avoid the hassle, stick with standard delivery methods.

Share your full WashU mailing address with family.

If your family or friends are sending you something, remind them to include your MSC (Mail Stop Code) as part of your WashU address. Missing information could mean delays or returns.

Get more tips for friends and family here.

Shop smart on weekends.

Need essentials right away? Use the Shopper Shuttle or Enterprise CarShare to make quick trips for must-have items, rather than relying on weekend deliveries.

---