Mail and Packages

Mail and packages are distributed at the Harvard Yard Mail Center (HYMC), located in the basement of the Science Center. If you have questions about mail, you can reach the HYMC directly at 617-495-5347 or hums@harvard.edu.

Your Mailing Address

You will receive your mailing address with your housing assignment, typically in early August. The format for your mailing address will be:

Mailing Packages Before Moving In

• You will receive your HYMC mailing address in early August, together with your housing notification. 
• If you are an incoming student, you may mail packages to yourself ahead of your arrival. The deadline to mail packages to yourself ahead of your arrival on campus will be provided when detailed move-in information is shared. The Harvard Summer School uses the HYMC between June and early August, and as a result the HYMC can not accept shipments earlier.
• Packages may not be sent to the First-Year Experience Office.

Sending Mail

• Stamped mail under 13 ounces can be mailed at the HYMC.
• You can also weigh outgoing parcels at the HYMC, but outgoing mail that exceeds 13 ounces must be shipped through a local U.S. Post Office. The closest post office location is just a few blocks away in Harvard Square.

Receiving Mail

• You will be able to pick up your mail beginning on move-in day, but not before.
• Dollies are available through Yard Ops in Weld Hall to help you move any large items.
• Packages that require signatures are signed for by a clerk as they enter the Harvard mail network, but there may be a lag before the parcel reaches the HYMC. This includes packages sent through UPS, FedEx, and DHL. If your package is missing, please call and provide the tracking number and the name of the Harvard clerk who signed.
• Mail may not be sent to the first-year dorms. Your dorm name and suite number will not be your mailing address.