USPS Tracking
How to track my USPS Packages?
There are two main options for monitoring packages shipped through USPS: third-party tracking platforms and the official website or mobile app. If you choose to use a third-party tracking tool, AfterShip Tracking Page is a convenient choice. On the other hand, you can also utilize the official channels offered by USPS. The USPS tracking service website provides three different methods to track USPS parcels. To summarize, here are these methods:
- Track USPS Packages with AfterShip Tracking Page
- Track USPS Packages on the Official Website
- How to track USPS Priority Mail
- Other Ways to Track your USPS Packages and Mails
Track USPS Packages with AfterShip Tracking Page
- Find your tracking number: simply refer to the emails or confirmation messages you received when placing your order. Typically, the shipping company or online retailer will provide you with this number.
- Visit the AfterShip Tracking Page: With just a single click, you can effortlessly track packages from numerous shipping companies with ease.
- Enter your tracking number: On the tracking page, enter your USPS Certified Mail tracking number and click the "Track" button;
- Review tracking information: After a moment, the website will display the current status of your package, including its last known location and estimated delivery date.
Track USPS Packages on the Official Website
- Access the Official Website: Navigate to the official website of USPS and locate the tracking section. Here, you can conveniently input your tracking number.
- Enter your tracking number: To effectively monitor the progress of your package, it is crucial to promptly request the tracking number from the seller once they have shipped your item through USPS.
- Start Tracking: Simply click on the "Track" button after entering your USPS tracking number. This action will instantly direct you to a dedicated page that offers comprehensive details regarding the current status of your package.
- Stay Updated on Parcel Status: On the tracking page, you will discover up-to-date logistics information about your shipment. This valuable data encompasses the precise location of your package, its shipping history, estimated delivery date, and any possible delays that might have occurred during transit.
What follows is a diagram to help you better understand the entire process.
How to track USPS Priority Mail
Priority Mail is a speedy and cost-effective package delivery service in the US. It ensures prompt delivery within 1-3 days to any destination. USPS Tracking is provided for free with Priority Mail shipments.
- Use our AfterShip Tracking Page for a quick and safe search.
- Visit the official website of USPS and enter your tracking number without any special characters.
Your shipment details will appear in the search results. If you've misplaced your tracking number, visit the nearest post office and request it.
Other Ways to Track your USPS Packages and Mails
- By text: Send a message with your tracking number to 28777 (2USPS).
- By smartphone: Download the USPS Mobile app for iPhone and Android.
- By phone: Visit Contact USPS for the phone number and hours of operation. For TDD/TTY, call 1-800-877-8339. Automated information is available 24/7.
USPS Tracking Number
USPS tracking relies on a specific tracking number to keep you informed about the journey of your package until it is delivered.
Where can I find my USPS tracking number?
- Post Office shipping receipt;
- Sales receipt from the Post Office if you purchased insurance;
- Email confirmation from USPS.com if you shipped through their website;
- Shipping confirmation email from an online retailer;
- The bottom peel-off section of your USPS Tracking label.
What does my tracking number look like?
Here are some examples of USPS tracking number formats:
- USPS Tracking Number: 9400 1000 0000 0000 0000 00
- Priority Mail Tracking Number: 9205 5000 0000 0000 0000 00
- Certified Mail Tracking Number: 9407 3000 0000 0000 0000 00
- Collect On Delivery Hold For Pickup Tracking Number: 9303 3000 0000 0000 0000 00
- Global Express Guaranteed Tracking Number: 82 000 000 00
- Priority Mail Express International Tracking Number: EC 000 000 000 US
- Priority Mail Express Tracking Number: 9270 1000 0000 0000 0000 00 or EA 000 000 000 US
- Priority Mail International Tracking Number: CP 000 000 000 US
USPS Tracking Statuses
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Delivered | The package has been delivered to the specified location. |
| In Transit | The package is currently being processed or transported to the delivering Post Office. |
| Arrived at USPS Facility | The package has arrived at a USPS facility for processing. |
| Departed USPS Facility | The package has left a USPS facility en route to its destination. |
| Out for Delivery | The package has been prepared for delivery and will be delivered by a carrier today. |
| On its Way to USPS | The package is with a shipping partner or in transit to a USPS facility for processing and delivery. |
| Insufficient Address/No Such Number | The package is being returned due to an incomplete or incorrect address. |
| No Access to Delivery Location | Delivery was not possible due to various reasons, and a reattempt will be made the next business day. |
| Notice Left (No Authorized Recipient Available) | A signature is required, but no one was available. Redelivery or pickup options are provided. |
| Available for Pickup | The package is available for pickup at the local Post Office during business hours. |
| Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item | A shipping label has been created, but the package has not yet been received by USPS. |
| Arrived at Post Office | The package has arrived at the recipient's local Post Office and is being prepared for delivery. |
| USPS in Possession of Item | USPS has received the package and is processing it for transport. |
| Forwarded/Forwarded Processed | The package is being forwarded to a different address or the correct Post Office for delivery. |
| Redelivery Scheduled/Reminder to Schedule Redelivery | A redelivery is scheduled or a reminder is sent to schedule a redelivery. |
| Delivery Status Not Updated/Awaiting Delivery Scan | No delivery status update recorded within 18 hours of an "Out for Delivery" status. |
| Notice Left (No Secure Location Available) | The carrier couldn't find a secure place to leave the package and return it to the Post Office. |
| Held at Post Office, At Customer Request | The package is being held at the local Post Office based on customer request. |
| Shipment Received, Package Acceptance Pending | A postal facility has received a container of multiple packages, but individual processing has not started. |
US Postal Service Types
USPS provides a wide range of services, including:
- Mail & Shipping Services: includes all mail and shipping options for domestic delivery. Customers can choose from a variety of services such as First-Class Mail, Marketing Mail, Periodicals, Media Mail, Package Services, Priority Mail, and USPS Retail Ground.
- International Shipping Services: specialized services designed specifically for international shipping, including Global Express Guaranteed, Priority Mail Express International, Priority Mail International, First-Class Package International Service, and Airmail M-Bags. These services offer fast and reliable delivery to destinations around the world.
- Business Shipping Services: offers several services geared towards businesses, including Premium Forwarding Service, Every Door Direct Mail, PO Box and Street Addressing, and Click-N-Ship. These services enable businesses to manage their mailing and shipping needs more efficiently.
- Tracking Services: United States Postal Service tracking provides customers with real-time updates on the status of their packages, including information on when a package is shipped, delivered, and if there are any exceptions or delays during transit.
- Insurance & Extra Services: provides additional services that customers can purchase for added security and protection when sending items through the mail. These services include Certified Mail, Collect on Delivery (COD), Insured Mail, Registered Mail, Signature Confirmation, Adult Signature Required, Return Receipt, and Restricted Delivery.
These categories provide a comprehensive overview of the different types of services offered by USPS and help customers choose the most appropriate service based on their specific needs.
USPS Customer Services
- Official website: www.usps.com
Contact USPS Customer Services (U.S. Only)
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone number: 1-800-ASK-USPS® (1-800-275-8777)
Hours of Operation
- Monday – Friday 8 AM – 8:30 PM ET
- Saturday 8 AM – 6 PM ET
Contact USPS Technical Support
- Phone number: 1-800-344-7779
Hours of Operation
- Monday – Friday 8 AM – 8:30 PM ET
- Saturday 8 AM – 6 PM ET
Contact Domestic & International USPS Tracking
- Phone number: 1-800-222-1811
Hours of Operation
- Monday – Friday 8 AM – 8:30 PM ET
- Saturday 8 AM – 6 PM ET
United States Postal Service
The United States Postal Service (USPS), often referred to simply as the "Post Office," is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government responsible for providing postal services to the residents and businesses of the United States. Established in 1775, it's one of the oldest postal services in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is USPS Text Tracking™?
USPS Text Tracking is a service that allows customers to receive text message notifications with the latest tracking information for their packages. You can use your phone or the USPS website to request Text Tracking, and you can choose from several Text Tracking options including Expected Delivery Updates, Day of Delivery Updates, Package Delivered, Available for Pickup, and Delivery Exception Updates.
To use Text Tracking from your phone, simply send a text message with your tracking number or your tracking number and a keyword to 28777 (2USPS). The reply from USPS will provide the latest tracking information for your package.
To use Text Tracking from the USPS website, track your package using USPS Tracking®, then register to receive Text Tracking on a tracking number by tracking number basis.
Standard Message and Data Rates may apply when using USPS Text Tracking. Overall, this service provides convenient updates on your package's delivery status so you can stay informed and up-to-date on your shipments.
Can USPS deliver without updating tracking?
Yes, USPS can deliver a package without updating the tracking information. Although it is not common, there are instances where the package tracking may not be updated due to various reasons such as missed scans, human error, or technical issues with the tracking system. In these cases, it's possible that your package will be delivered despite the tracking information not being up-to-date. If you're expecting a package and the tracking hasn't been updated for an extended period, it's a good idea to contact USPS to inquire about the status of your package.
Why is my USPS package still in transit?
There can be several reasons why your package is still in transit:
- Delays in transportation: Weather conditions, road closures, accidents, or other factors may cause delays in the shipment process.
- High volume of packages: During peak seasons such as holidays, the volume of packages being processed can be much higher, which can cause delays.
- Processing at distribution centers: Packages sometimes experience longer wait times at sorting facilities if they're understaffed or dealing with heavy volumes of mail.
- Package misrouting: Occasionally, a package might be sent to the wrong distribution center and need to be rerouted, causing delays.
- Customs processing (for international shipments): It can take some time for a package to clear customs and be released for transit.
To get more accurate and updated information about your package's status, please visit the USPS tracking website or contact their customer service directly.
How long does USPS show tracking?
USPS typically retains tracking information for 120 days (4 months) from the date of shipping. However, this period may vary depending on the type of mail class or service used. After this time, tracking information may no longer be available on the USPS website or through customer service.
If you need information about a package beyond this time frame, it's best to contact USPS directly or visit your local post office for assistance. Keep in mind that their ability to help with older shipments may be limited.
What are the three stages of USPS tracking?
USPS tracking generally involves three stages, though it may differ slightly depending on the specific service used. The basic stages are:
- Acceptance: This is the initial stage where the package is processed and accepted by USPS. It begins with receiving the package at the post office or collection facility. At this point, the sender receives a tracking number that they can use to monitor their shipment's progress.
- In-Transit: During this stage, the package is transported through various processing centers, distribution facilities, and postal hubs. USPS scans the package at each stop along the way, which updates the tracking information. Some common tracking updates you might see during this stage include "Arrived at USPS Regional Facility," "In Transit to Next Facility," or "Out for Delivery."
- Delivered: The final stage is when the package has been successfully delivered to its destination. The tracking status will be updated to "Delivered" along with the date and time of delivery. In some cases, additional information about the delivery (such as the recipient's signature) may be available.
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