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Pre-Shipment

Pre-shipment is when an order is placed but before the items are shipped. When a seller creates a shipping label for an order, it enters the pre-shipment stage. At this point, the tracking number is generated and may show a status like " Pre-shipment, shipping label created, USPS awaiting item". Tracking information may not show updates during pre-shipment. This is normal and doesn't mean there's a problem with the shipment.

Can I cancel my order if the shipment status is in pre-shipment?

You can cancel an order if it's still in pre-shipment. Here's what you need to know:

  • Timing is important: You can cancel an order during the pre-shipment stage because the package has not been handed over to the carrier.
  • Contact the seller: Contact the seller right away to cancel. Many online platforms have a cancellation option.
  • Seller's policies: Seller policies may affect cancellation. Some sellers have a deadline for cancellations, even before shipping.
  • Carrier-specific procedures: If you used a specific carrier to create the shipping label, you may need to follow their cancellation process. You can cancel a FedEx shipment up to 12 hours after it's created or before the ship date is printed on the air waybill.
  • Refund process: If the cancellation is successful, make sure you know the seller's refund policy and timeline.

If you can't cancel, you may have to return the item or refuse delivery.

How long is the time that a package is in "pre-shipment"?

  1. Average duration: Usually 1-3 business days

  2. Factors affecting pre-shipment time:

  • Seller's processing time
  • Shipping method chosen
  • Carrier's pickup schedule
  • Weekends and holidays
  • Seller's location relative to carrier facilities
  1. Possible scenarios:
  • Same-day: Label created and package handed over to carrier on the same day.
  • Few days: Seller needs time to process and package the item before shipping.
  • Extended period: In rare cases, due to unforeseen circumstances or errors.

It's important to note that "pre-shipment" doesn't necessarily mean the package isn't moving. Sometimes, tracking updates may lag behind the actual movement of the package.

Why my USPS tracking stuck on pre-shipment for a week?

There are seceral reasons why your USPS tracking didn't update:

  1. The seller created a label but hasn't shipped the item yet.
  2. The package was dropped off but not scanned into the USPS system.
  3. There's a delay in updating the tracking information.
  4. The package was lost or misplaced at the initial handling stage.
  5. USPS experiences system-wide delays in updating tracking information
  6. A package might move through the system without scans until delivery

If your package has been in pre-shipment status for a week, it's advisable to contact the seller for more information. If the seller confirms shipment, you may want to contact USPS directly to inquire about the package status.

For tracking information regarding USPS text tracking, call this number at 1800-222-1811.

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