USPS tracking

USPS: Track Your Shipment Across the USA and Globally

The United States Postal Service (USPS) delivers mail and packages across the US and internationally. Easily monitor your shipment's journey.

Introduction to USPS Tracking

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a cornerstone of American communication and commerce, delivering billions of pieces of mail and packages every year. From personal letters to critical business documents and online shopping orders, USPS connects virtually every household and business in the nation. Understanding where your package is and when it might arrive is crucial, and that's where tracking comes in.

Keeping tabs on your parcel's journey doesn't have to be complicated. While USPS offers its own tracking system, universal tracking platforms like 4Trackit.com provide a streamlined way to monitor your shipments from USPS and numerous other carriers, all in one place. Get real-time delivery updates and stay informed every step of the way. Ready to see where your package is? Track your USPS shipment now.

How to Track Your USPS Shipment

Tracking your USPS package is straightforward. All you need is your unique tracking number.

Where to find your USPS tracking number

Your USPS tracking number is the key to unlocking real-time updates on your shipment's location. You can typically find it in several places:

• Shipping Receipt: If you shipped the item at a Post Office, the tracking number is usually printed on your receipt.
• Shipping Confirmation Email: If you ordered something online, the retailer often sends a shipping confirmation email containing the tracking number.
• Online Marketplace Order Details: Check the order history or details page on the website where you made the purchase (e.g., Amazon, eBay).
• Shipping Label: If you received a pre-paid label or are the recipient, the tracking number is displayed prominently below the barcode on the label itself.
• USPS Notice Left Slip: If a delivery attempt was made while you weren't home, the redelivery slip (PS Form 3849) will include the tracking number.

USPS tracking numbers vary in length depending on the service used, but common formats include 22 digits (e.g., 9400 1000 0000 0000 0000 00) or 13 alphanumeric characters for international mail (e.g., EC 000 000 000 US).

Step-by-step guide using 4Trackit.com

Using 4Trackit.com for your USPS parcel tracking is simple:

1. Visit the Website: Open your web browser and go to 4Trackit.com.
2. Locate the Tracking Field: Find the prominent tracking bar, usually located near the top of the homepage.
3. Enter Your Tracking Number: Carefully type or paste your complete USPS tracking number into the field. Ensure there are no spaces or dashes unless they are part of the original number.
4. Click 'Track': Hit the track button next to the input field.
5. View Results: 4Trackit will automatically detect the carrier as USPS and display the latest tracking information, including the current status, location history, and estimated delivery date (if available).

It's that easy! You get comprehensive USPS tracking details without needing to navigate multiple sites.

Common tracking statuses explained

As your package travels, its tracking status will update. Here are some common USPS statuses you might see:

• Pre-Shipment: USPS has received electronic notification that the sender is preparing the package, but it hasn't been physically handed over yet.
• Accepted / Acceptance: USPS has taken possession of the package at a postal facility.
• In Transit / Arrived at/Departed USPS Facility: The package is moving through the USPS network, often scanned at sorting facilities along its route.
• Out for Delivery: The package has been loaded onto the local delivery truck and is scheduled to be delivered today.
• Delivered: The package has reached its final destination. The scan might specify where (e.g., front door, mailbox, receptionist).
• Alert / Held at Post Office: There might be an issue requiring attention (e.g., delivery exception, incorrect address) or the package is available for pickup at the Post Office.
• Delivery Attempted / Notice Left: The carrier tried to deliver the package but couldn't complete it (e.g., no secure location, signature required). A notice slip should be left with instructions.

USPS Company Overview

The United States Postal Service is an independent agency of the executive branch of the United States federal government responsible for providing postal service in the United States, including its insular areas and associated states. Its history is deeply intertwined with the nation's own development.

• History: Established in 1775 with Benjamin Franklin as the first Postmaster General, the USPS predates the Declaration of Independence. It was officially created as the Post Office Department in 1792 and transformed into the independent agency USPS in 1971 through the Postal Reorganization Act.
• Headquarters: Washington, D.C., USA.
• Regions Served: Primarily the United States and its territories. It also facilitates international shipping through agreements with postal services worldwide.
• Key Services: USPS offers a wide range of services, including First-Class Mail® for standard letters and small packages, Priority Mail® for faster domestic delivery with included tracking, Priority Mail Express® for overnight delivery guarantees, USPS Retail Ground® for less urgent, larger packages, Media Mail® for educational materials, and various international shipping options like Global Express Guaranteed® and Priority Mail International®.

USPS remains a vital infrastructure component, handling a significant portion of the world's mail volume and serving every address in the nation.

USPS Contact Information

If you need to contact USPS directly regarding your shipment or their services, here are the primary channels:

• Official Website: www.usps.com - The best resource for tracking, service information, finding locations, and more.
• Customer Service Phone: 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) - General inquiries and automated tracking. Hours vary.
• Email/Contact Form: Available through the 'Help' section on the USPS website for specific inquiries. Response times can vary.
• Social Media:
  • Twitter: @USPSHelp (for customer support)
  • Facebook: facebook.com/USPS
• Local Post Office: Use the locator tool on the USPS website to find the contact information for your specific local branch.

For tracking inquiries, it's often best to start with the online tracking tools or the automated phone system before contacting customer service directly.

Shipping Services Offered by USPS

USPS provides a comprehensive suite of shipping services catering to various needs, speeds, and budgets:

Domestic Shipping

• First-Class Mail®: The most affordable option for standard-sized letters, postcards, and lightweight packages (up to 15.99 oz). Delivery typically takes 1-5 business days.
• Priority Mail®: A popular choice offering delivery within 1-3 business days for packages up to 70 lbs. Includes USPS tracking and limited insurance. Flat rate options are available.
• Priority Mail Express®: The fastest domestic service, guaranteeing overnight to 2-day delivery to most US locations, including PO Boxes. Includes tracking and proof of delivery.
• USPS Retail Ground®: An economical choice for larger, less time-sensitive packages (up to 70 lbs). Delivery takes 2-8 business days.
• Media Mail®: A cost-effective service specifically for shipping books, CDs, DVDs, and other qualifying media. Delivery takes 2-8 business days. Restrictions apply.

International Shipping

• Global Express Guaranteed® (GXG®): The fastest international option (1-3 business days) with date-certain delivery and a money-back guarantee, facilitated through FedEx Express.
• Priority Mail Express International®: Delivers in 3-5 business days to many major markets. Includes tracking and insurance.
• Priority Mail International®: Delivers in 6-10 business days to many major markets. Includes tracking and limited insurance. Flat rate options available.
• First-Class Package International Service® (FCPIS®): An economical way to send lightweight packages (up to 4 lbs). Delivery time varies by destination. Tracking visibility may be limited after leaving the US.

Other Services

• USPS Connect™: Solutions tailored for businesses and e-commerce shippers, offering local, regional, and national delivery options.
• PO Boxes, Informed Delivery®, Package Intercept®: Additional services for mail management and delivery flexibility.

Delivery Time & Tracking Updates

Estimated Delivery Times

Delivery times for USPS shipments depend heavily on the service selected, origin, destination, and current network conditions.

• Priority Mail Express: Overnight to 2 days (guaranteed)
• Priority Mail: 1-3 business days (estimated)
• First-Class Mail: 1-5 business days (estimated)
• USPS Retail Ground / Media Mail: 2-8 business days (estimated)
• International Services: Varies significantly (3 days to several weeks depending on service and destination)

Note that these are estimates (except for Express guarantees) and can be affected by weather, holidays, and volume surges.

When to Expect Tracking Updates

USPS tracking updates occur when a package is scanned at various points in its journey. Key scan events include:

• Initial acceptance scan (when USPS receives the package).
• Arrival and departure scans at sorting facilities (major hubs).
• Scan upon arrival at the destination Post Office.
• "Out for Delivery" scan when loaded onto the delivery vehicle.
• Final "Delivered" scan.

You might not see scans every single hour or even every day, especially if the package is traveling long distances between facilities. Updates typically appear online within a few hours of the physical scan.

What to do if tracking is delayed

If your USPS tracking hasn't updated in several days or the package is past its estimated delivery date:

1. Be Patient: Minor delays happen. Wait an extra business day or two, especially during peak seasons or bad weather.
2. Check Detailed Tracking: Use 4Trackit.com or USPS.com to see the last known location and status.
3. Contact the Shipper: If you ordered online, the sender might have more information or can initiate an inquiry.
4. File a Missing Mail Search Request: If a significant amount of time has passed (check USPS guidelines, usually 7+ days after mailing), you can initiate a search request on the USPS website.
5. Contact USPS Customer Service: Call 1-800-ASK-USPS for assistance, although initiating a search request online is often the recommended first step.

Common Issues and FAQs

Navigating the world of shipping can sometimes lead to questions. Here are some common issues related to USPS tracking:

Tracking number not working

If your tracking number isn't showing results, consider these possibilities:

• Typo: Double-check that you entered the number correctly, without extra spaces or incorrect characters.
• Too Soon: It can take up to 24-48 hours after the sender ships the item for the tracking information to appear in the USPS system.
• System Lag: Occasionally, there might be a delay in the USPS system updating online. Try again later.
• Incorrect Number: Ensure you have the actual USPS tracking number and not an order number or reference code from the retailer.

Meaning of common statuses like 'In Transit', 'Out for Delivery'

• 'In Transit': This is a broad status indicating your package is moving within the USPS network. It could be on a truck, plane, or between sorting facilities. Don't be alarmed if it stays 'In Transit' for a day or two without specific location updates, especially on longer journeys.
• 'Out for Delivery': This is great news! It means the package is on the local delivery truck and is expected to be delivered on that same day. Delivery times can range from early morning to late evening (sometimes up to 8 PM or later).
• 'Delivered': The package has arrived at its destination address. Check the location specified (mailbox, front door, etc.). If you haven't received it, check around your property, with neighbors, or building management before reporting it missing.
• 'Accepted': USPS has scanned and accepted the package into their system at a postal facility.

How to change delivery address

Changing the delivery address once a package is in transit with USPS is difficult but sometimes possible using the USPS Package Intercept® service. Here's how it works:

• Eligibility: Not all packages are eligible. It must have a USPS tracking number and not be oversized or certain restricted mail classes.
• Process: You can submit a request online via your USPS account (if you are the shipper or recipient with an account).
• Fee: There is a fee associated with this service (currently over $17.00), payable only if the intercept is successful.
• Options: You can request the package be returned to the sender, held at a Post Office for pickup, or redirected to a different domestic address.
• Guarantee: Interception is not guaranteed. It depends on whether USPS can locate and reroute the package before it goes out for final delivery.

It's always best to confirm the shipping address is correct *before* the item is sent.

Conclusion

The United States Postal Service plays an indispensable role in connecting people and businesses across the country and beyond. Understanding how to track your shipments provides peace of mind and helps you anticipate delivery.

Using a tool like 4Trackit.com simplifies the process, offering a centralized platform for USPS tracking and updates from numerous other carriers. Get real-time delivery updates, view detailed tracking history, and manage all your shipments easily. Eliminate the need to jump between different carrier websites and enjoy a seamless tracking experience.

Give it a try today and experience the convenience of effortless parcel monitoring. Track your USPS shipment now on 4Trackit.com!

FAQs

How long does USPS keep tracking information available?

USPS generally keeps tracking information available online for about 120 days (around 4 months) from the date of shipping. For some services, like Priority Mail Express, it might be available for longer.

What should I do if my USPS package tracking says 'Delivered' but I haven't received it?

First, check common delivery spots (mailbox, front porch, back door, garage area). Ask household members, neighbors, or building management if they received it. Sometimes, it's scanned as 'Delivered' slightly before arrival. If it doesn't appear within 24 hours, contact your local Post Office directly or report the issue through the USPS website.

Can I track a standard letter (First-Class Mail envelope) with USPS?

Standard First-Class Mail letters and flats typically do not include tracking unless additional services like Certified Mail® or Registered Mail™ are purchased. Basic letter mail is not automatically trackable.

How accurate is USPS tracking?

USPS tracking is generally reliable and provides accurate updates based on package scans. However, delays can occur between scans, and occasionally a scan might be missed. The 'Out for Delivery' and 'Delivered' scans are usually very accurate regarding the package's status on that day.

What does 'Pre-Shipment' or 'Label Created, not yet in system' mean?

This status means the shipper has created a shipping label and electronically notified USPS they intend to ship a package, but USPS has not yet physically received or scanned the item into their system. The tracking will update once USPS accepts the package.

Does USPS deliver on Saturdays and Sundays?

USPS delivers Priority Mail Express and certain Amazon packages on Sundays in many locations. Priority Mail and First-Class Packages are often delivered on Saturdays. Standard letter mail delivery typically occurs Monday through Saturday.

Can I schedule a specific delivery time with USPS?

No, USPS does not generally allow recipients to schedule a specific delivery time for standard mail or package delivery. Delivery occurs along the carrier's established route for the day.