Tracking can be a lifesaver when you’re expecting a package or need to keep an eye on your mail. The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a popular postal service offering excellent tracking services. This article will discuss everything you need to know about USPS tracking in 2023, including its features, how to use it, and the various types of tracking services available to track your USPS Shipment, Parcel, Package or Courier.
What is USPS Tracking?
USPS tracking is a service provided by the United States Postal Service that allows you to monitor the progress of your mail and packages as they make their way through the postal system. With a unique tracking number, you can receive real-time updates on the location and status of your shipment, ensuring you always know where it is and when it will arrive.
USPS offers international shipping services to many countries around the world. While it is not possible to provide an exhaustive list of every country serviced by USPS, here is a list of some of the countries where USPS provides shipping services in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom and Vietnam.
Types of USPS Tracking Services
Several types of USPS tracking services are available, catering to different needs and budgets. Some of the most popular options include:
1. First-Class Mail
First-Class Mail is an affordable service for sending letters, postcards, and small packages weighing up to 13 ounces. This service comes with free USPS tracking and typically delivers within 1-3 business days.
2. Priority Mail
Priority Mail offers expedited delivery for packages weighing up to 70 pounds. This service includes free USPS tracking and delivers within 1-3 business days, depending on the destination. It also offers flat-rate pricing, which can save you money on shipping costs.
3. USPS Retail Ground
USPS Retail Ground is a cost-effective option for shipping larger, non-urgent packages weighing up to 70 pounds. This service includes USPS tracking and delivers within 2-8 business days.
4. Media Mail
Media Mail is a cost-effective service for sending books, CDs, DVDs, and other qualifying media items. This service includes USPS tracking and typically delivers within 2-8 business days.
How to Use USPS Tracking
To effectively use USPS tracking, follow these simple steps:
1. Locating Your Tracking Number
Your tracking number can be found on your shipping receipt, online label record, or the bottom peel-off portion of your USPS Tracking label. Ensure you keep this number safe, as it is your key to tracking your package.
2. Checking Your Package Status
To check the status of your package, enter your tracking number on the USPS website or use their mobile app. You can also sign up for email or text alerts to receive updates directly to your phone.
3. Understanding Tracking Status Updates
As your package moves through the postal system, you may see various status updates, such as “In-Transit,” “Out for Delivery,” and “Delivered.” Familiarize yourself with these updates so you know what to expect throughout the shipping process.
USPS Tracking Features
In addition to basic tracking, USPS offers several additional features that can enhance your shipping experience:
USPS Tracking Features
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a reliable and affordable option for sending mail and packages within the United States. USPS offers various tracking features to enhance customer experience and ensure secure delivery. This article will explore three key USPS tracking features: Informed Delivery, Signature Confirmation, and Insurance.
Informed Delivery
What is Informed Delivery?
Informed Delivery is a free service provided by USPS that allows you to digitally preview your incoming mail and manage your packages. With Informed Delivery, you can receive images of the exterior of your mailpieces, such as letters and postcards, as well as track your packages in real-time.
How to sign up for Informed Delivery
Signing up for Informed Delivery is simple:
- Visit the Informed Delivery website https://informeddelivery.usps.com/
- Click on “Sign Up for Free.”
- Create a USPS.com account if you don’t already have one.
- Verify your identity and address.
- Start receiving email notifications with images of your incoming mail.
Benefits of Informed Delivery
Some advantages of using Informed Delivery include:
- Convenient access to your mail and packages, even when you’re away from home.
- Ability to monitor for mail theft or missing items.
- Receiving notifications when packages are delivered or require a signature.
Signature Confirmation
Overview of Signature Confirmation
Signature Confirmation is an additional service you can purchase when shipping a package with USPS. It provides proof of delivery by requiring the recipient to sign for the package upon delivery. This service is especially useful for valuable or sensitive items, ensuring they reach the intended recipient securely.
When to use Signature Confirmation
Consider using Signature Confirmation for:
- High-value items
- Confidential documents
- Legal or financial paperwork
- Any shipment where you need proof of delivery
How to add Signature Confirmation to your shipment
To add Signature Confirmation to your shipment:
- Visit your local Post Office or USPS retail location.
- Request Signature Confirmation when preparing your package for shipment.
- Pay the additional fee for the service.
- Receive a tracking number that allows you to monitor the package’s progress.
Insurance
Types of USPS Insurance
USPS offers two main types of insurance to protect your shipments against loss, damage, or missing contents:
- Priority Mail Express Insurance: Automatically included with Priority Mail Express shipments, this insurance covers up to $100 in value. You can purchase additional coverage for higher-value items.
- USPS Insurance: Available for other mail classes, such as Priority Mail and First-Class Mail, this insurance allows you to purchase coverage based on the item’s value.
Track USPS Shipment
Tracking your USPS shipment is an easy process. Follow these steps to stay informed about the status of your package:
- Locate your tracking number: Your tracking number can be found on the shipping receipt, email confirmation, or package label. It typically consists of 22 characters, including both letters and numbers.
- Visit the USPS Tracking website: Go to the USPS Tracking page on the official USPS website. https://tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmAction_input
- Enter your tracking number: Type or paste your tracking number into the search field, then click the “Track Package” button. You can also enter multiple tracking numbers, separating them with commas.
- Review your tracking information: The tracking page will display the current status of your package, including its location, estimated delivery date, and any delivery updates or alerts.
- Sign up for text or email notifications: If you want to receive updates about your package’s progress, you can sign up for text or email notifications by clicking on the “Get Updates” button on the tracking page.
- Use the USPS Mobile App: If you prefer tracking your shipment through your smartphone, download the USPS Mobile App for Android or iOS. Log in or create an account, then enter your tracking number to view the status of your package.
Remember, tracking information may not be immediately available for all packages. It can take up to 24 hours for tracking information to appear on the USPS website after the package has been shipped.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take for tracking information to update on the USPS website?
It can take up to 24 hours for tracking information to appear on the USPS website after the package has been shipped.
2. Can I track USPS shipments internationally?
Yes, USPS offers international tracking for certain mail classes, such as Priority Mail International and Priority Mail Express International.
3. What if my package is lost or delayed?
If your package is lost or delayed, you can file a claim with USPS, especially if it’s insured. Contact USPS customer service for assistance with your claim.
4. How can I find out if my package requires a signature upon delivery?
Check the tracking information on the USPS website or the shipping receipt. If Signature Confirmation was purchased, it would be indicated in the tracking details.
5. What should I do if I missed a delivery that requires a signature?
USPS will typically leave a notice with instructions for rescheduling the delivery or picking up the package at your local Post Office. You can also sign up for My USPS to manage your package deliveries and request redelivery online.
USPS offers various tracking features, such as Informed Delivery, Signature Confirmation, and Insurance, to ensure a secure and reliable shipping experience. By utilizing these services and following the steps to track your USPS shipment, you can have peace of mind knowing your mail and packages are in good hands.