Signature options are delivery service add-ons offered by parcel carriers that require the recipient to provide a signature before the carrier releases a package. Without a signature option, carriers typically attempt delivery and leave the package at the door if no one is home. Signature requirements ensure that a responsible party physically receives the package — important for high-value goods, age-restricted products, and items with theft risk.
FedEx Signature Options
- Indirect Signature Required: Anyone at or near the delivery address can sign — neighbor, building manager, or USPS employee.
- Direct Signature Required: Someone at the delivery address must sign — no neighbor signatures accepted.
- Adult Signature Required: Someone 21 or older at the delivery address must sign and provide ID — required for alcohol, firearms, and age-restricted products.
UPS Signature Options
UPS offers analogous options: Signature Required (someone must sign), Adult Signature Required (21+ with ID), and Delivery Confirmation (no signature, but electronic verification of delivery attempt). Signature services are charged as accessorials — typically $5–$8 per package. For high-value B2B deliveries, signature requirements reduce lost-package disputes; for consumer deliveries, they can create redelivery friction if the recipient isn’t home.