Apple Upgrade Program - Mail in Upgrade?

I can't seam to find the answer anywhere.

I have the apple update program since the iPhone 6s and last year spent around a 1 hour and a half waiting in line even tho I had appointment. This year I spent another hour and a half getting the 7 with a appointment.

Does anyone know if for next year there is a option to upgrade via the mail?
I understand they need to get the old phone back maybe they can just temp charge me for the new phone while I ship the old one back? Every staff member today at apple had a different answer. Some said yes some said no.

Thanks