Packages in the Residence Halls

At MSU, we know how important it is for you to get your mail and packages on time. Whether it’s a care package from home, a textbook delivery, or something you ordered online, our Service Centers are here to help make the process smooth and reliable. We ask that all residents follow local, state, and federal laws when receiving items

How It Works

When a package arrives at your Service Center, our team logs it into our system. Once it’s logged, you’ll get an email letting you know it’s ready for pickup and where to go. We also send a text message to the phone number listed in your My Housing account.
Sometimes, you might get a notification from the delivery company before we’ve had a chance to process the package. That’s normal, especially during busy times. Just keep an eye on your MSU email for our official pickup notice. If you’ve forwarded your email, be aware that it might filter out our messages.

Sending Packages to Campus

To make sure your mail gets to you without delay, it’s important to use the correct format when addressing packages. Include your full name (as it appears on your MSU ID), your hall and room number, and the proper ZIP+4 code. You can find your hall’s street address on the MSU Campus Maps website. If you live in one of our apartment communities, check the Mailing Addresses page for the correct format.

Who Can Deliver

We accept packages from major carriers like USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, and Amazon. These companies provide tracking and documentation, which helps us log and manage deliveries accurately.

Last Mile Carriers

The Service Centers will make every effort to log packages delivered by Last Mile Carriers—such as Amazon Flex, GOFO, SpeedX, or similar services—provided the item is delivered directly to the Service Center and includes a valid tracking number. When these conditions are met, the package will be processed and logged in the same manner as those from traditional carriers such as UPS, FedEx, DHL, and USPS.

However, if a Last Mile Carrier delivers a package without a tracking number or does not deliver to a staffed Service Center, it will be considered a direct delivery. These items will not be logged, and REHS will not assume responsibility for them. Unclaimed direct delivery items will be held for no more than 7 days before being sent to the MSU Surplus Store.

 

What We Don’t Accept

To ensure proper handling and accountability, the Service Centers will not accept drop-offs from individuals or same-day delivery services. This includes, but is not limited to, friends, family members, guests, or outside companies that provide same-day delivery services like but not excluded to Shipt, WalmartPlus, Meijer Delivery, Kroger Delivery, Door Dash or UberEats.

Because items that do not come from established carriers have no documented chain of custody and may be perishable, students MUST accept those items in person.  

Students who utilize services like pizza, grocery, or laundry delivery will need to meet providers in the main lobby. 

Time-Sensitive Deliveries

We understand that some packages, like medications, are urgent. While we do our best to process these quickly, we can’t always tell what’s inside a package. If timing is critical, consider using an Amazon Locker or arranging for local pickup to ensure you get your item as soon as possible.

Amazon Lockers

Amazon Lockers are available in Brody, Holden, and Owen Halls. If there’s space, you’ll see the locker option during checkout. You can still choose to have packages delivered to your hall if you prefer. Just be sure to pick them up promptly once you’re notified. If you run into any issues with the lockers, Amazon’s customer service is your best resource.

Perishable Items

We’re happy to accept deliveries like flower arrangements, Edible Arrangements, or treats from MSU Bakers. However, we don’t have refrigeration, so we can only hold perishable items for a short time. If they’re left too long and risk spoiling, we’ll send a 24-hour notice to your MSU email before discarding them. Please note that we do not accept balloon deliveries.

Unclaimed Packages

If a package or piece of mail isn’t picked up within seven days, we’ll return it to the sender. So be sure to check your notifications and pick up your items promptly.

Forwarding Mail

When it’s time to move out, don’t forget to update your address in My Housing and notify any companies that regularly send you mail. We’ll forward mail for up to six months, as long as both updates are completed. Keep in mind that international mail cannot be forwarded.

Need Help?

If you think a package or letter has gone missing or wasn’t handled properly, reach out to your hall’s Service Center by email. Include as much detail as you can—like a description, tracking number, or delivery confirmation, and we’ll get back to you within 24 hours.

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