Frequently Asked Questions

1. How should my mail be addressed?
   
   STUDENTS
   All students living on campus should use the following address format to help aid in a more timely and efficient delivery of USPS mail and all other shipments (UPS, FedEx, etc):
   

   Name ( no nick names)
   University of South Carolina
   Box # (student’s assigned 5 digit mail box #)
   1400 Greene Street
   Columbia SC 29225

   * Please note that USC has been assigned a unique zip code for incoming student mail. This zip code, 29225, is to be included on all incoming student mail.
   
   DEPARTMENT MAIL
   All University Departments should use the following address format for incoming United States Postal Service mail:
   

   Att: Name
   Department Name
   University of South Carolina
   Columbia SC 29208

   Please note that USC has been assigned a unique zip code for all Department mail. This zip code,29208, is to be included on all faculty and staff mail.
   
   Special Note for non- USPS shipments
   * Since private carriers such as UPS and FedEx deliver directly to University Departments these shipments must include the department street address and room number and contact name.
   
   
2. How do I mail a package?
   
   Students may bring their packages to the Student Mail Center in the Carolina Underground located in the basement of the Russell House, 1400 Greene Street, or the University Post Office located at 1600 Hampton Street. (corner of Pickens and Hampton Streets)
   
   The Student Mail Center accepts only cash, checks (with valid identification) and the Carolina Card. The USC Post Office accepts only cash or checks (with valid identification) Sorry, no credit cards.
    

   Student Mail Center Hours Postage Sales & Shipping Services Mon-Fri 9:00am-4:00pm. 803-777-4109

   USC Post Office -1600 Hampton St Postage Sales & Shipping Services Mon-Fri 9:00am-4:30pm 803-777-3168

   University of South Carolina Departments may use the USC Postal Services for all of their shipping needs. However, departments must attach their assigned Postal Authorization form to each mailing. The USC Postal Service delivers all incoming USPS mail and inter- campus mail twice a day. Mail is picked up twice a day dependent upon department needs and requirements.
   Department mailing is for University Business only.
   For additional information or to learn more about set up requirements please call 777-2158 .
    

3. Can I buy stamps at USC?
   
   Students, faculty and staff may purchase stamps at either the Student Mail Center or the USC Post Office.
   
   The Student Mail Center accepts only cash, checks (with valid identification) and the Carolina Card. The USC Post Office accepts only cash or checks (with valid identification). Sorry, no credit cards accepted at either location.
    
4. Where do students residing in University Housing and Greek Village pick up their mail?
   
   The Student Mail Center, located in the basement of the Russell House at 1400 Greene St. is the central location for 8,000 student mailboxes. Student mailbox number assignments and combinations are available on VIP at: http://vip.sc.edu.
    
5. When does mail service start?
   
   Mail Service Dates
    
6. If a student has a package shipped to the University how should it be addressed and where and when can I pick it up?
   
   Students residing on campus should use the following address format for all parcel deliveries regardless of carrier:
   

   Name ( no nick names)
   University of South Carolina
   Box # (student’s assigned 5 digit mail box #)
   1400 Greene Street
   Columbia, SC 29225

   Parcel deliveries for students residing on campus are made to the Student Mail Center located on the lower level of the Russell House.
   
   Delivery notification is made by the placement of a delivery notice in the student mailbox.
   
   A picture I.D. and delivery notice are required to claim shipments from the Student Mail Center.
   

   Student Mail Center
   Student Package Pick Up
   Mon.-Fri. 9:00am-5:00pm