Learning to track USPS parcels will help you ensure that the items you ship actually reach their destination on time. Today, the United States Postal Service offers a variety of services that allow you to follow your package every step of the way. Tracking is now a fairly simple process, but you need to be familiar with the various options before you make your next shipment.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Tracking Packages
Step 1. Specify a traceable form of delivery on shipments via USPS
Not all mail or packages can be automatically tracked via the postal system, so make sure the method you use allows tracking. Some traces require a 45 day wait for lost mail.
- Domestic first class shipments and media mail do not include automatic tracking. You must request for added tracking, for which there is an additional charge.
- Most other forms of delivery (which are more expensive than first-class), such as Priority Mail, include tracking.
- Not all forms of tracking are the same. As a general rule, the more expensive the form of delivery, the more detailed the tracking information it provides.
Step 2. Save your receipt
Receipts must include a tracking number (referred to as “Label number”) on some receipts) at the bottom of the form.
The number of digits and the exact format of the tracking number may differ depending on the form of delivery you choose. For a list of the different formats, see here
Step 3. Visit the USPS website
The USPS site --USPS.com-- has a link on almost every page that will take you to a page for tracking packages. The general search box on the main page of the site will also track packages if you enter the information there.
Step 4. Type the tracking number in the search box and press enter key
Step 5. Understand the description of the USPS status
The USPS has a specific term to describe the status of each packet, and while most are self-explanatory, others are less comprehensible.
- You will see “Arrived at USPS Initial Location” indicating when the package first entered the USPS sorting system. This is not the same as the first post office where the package arrives, but the first place where the package is prepared for transfer delivery to the next point.
- "Arrived at the Post Office" will be displayed when the package has arrived in the vicinity of the final delivery point but is still within the USPS location.
- The “Out for Delivery” explanation is probably the clearest. The package is currently with the postal service agent for delivery.
- "Undeliverable" will appear if the package requires a signature or further instructions for delivery. At this point, the package will usually be returned to the local postal location for subsequent delivery.
Method 2 of 2: Adding Advanced Tracking and Confirmation
Step 1. Ask for signature confirmation on your shipment
This method will require a signature (although not necessarily the signature of the intended recipient) on the delivery of the package. If you need a Recipient Special signature, the package can be kept at the Post Office until the recipient can sign it instead of at the delivery location. Proof of identity will be required.
- In addition, you can request that a copy of the signer's name be sent to you upon successful delivery.
- There will be a surcharge of about $3.
- Confirmation signatures are not available for delivery to PO boxes and may not be available for delivery to military bases or diplomatic posts (including anything deemed APO (Army Post Office or Military Post Office), FPO (Fleet Post Office or Armada Post Office), or DPO (Diplomatic Post Office or Diplomatic Post Office)).
Step 2. Add a return receipt to the shipment
If you request a return receipt, you will receive confirmation by mail or email from USPS.
- Along with the name of the signer, you will also receive information on the final delivery address or pick-up point. If the recipient has requested that the shipment be sent elsewhere, for example, you will be notified exactly when and where the final delivery will take place.
- The fee is an additional $2.70 for a mail receipt or $1.35 for an email receipt.
Step 3. Save your receipt
Receipts should include a tracking number (called “Label number” on some receipts) at the bottom of the form. While these packages don't require you to actively track them (after all, you'll be notified upon delivery), the option is still available.
Step 4. Visit the USPS website
The USPS site --USPS.com-- has a link on almost every page that will take you to a page for tracking packages. The general search box on the main page of the site will also track packages if you enter the information there.
Step 5. Type the tracking number in the search box and then press enter key
Read the results for the latest delivery status.
Step 6. Receive delivery confirmation (if available)
Whether it's by mail or email, you'll be able to receive delivery confirmations without actively tracking the package yourself, as long as you request this service.
