USPS Tracking
*AfterShip provides package tracking services only. For inquiries about order details, please contact your retailer.
Advance features
How to track my USPS packages?
Track with USPS
USPS 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.
USPS Priority Mail
Priority Mail is a speedy and cost-effective package delivery service in the U.S. It ensures prompt delivery within 1 to 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 mobile phone: Download the USPS Mobile App for iPhone and Android.
- By text: Send a message with your tracking number to 28777 (2USPS).
- 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.
Track with AfterShip
AfterShip Package 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.
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- Find your tracking number: Just like before, you need to get your tracking number first.
- Download the AfterShip Mobile App: Available for both iOS and Android, download the AfterShip mobile app for instant access to all your tracking needs.
- Enter your tracking number: Open the app and simply enter your USPS tracking number. Hit the "Track" button to start tracking your package.
- Review tracking information: Get real-time updates on your package's status, including its current location, transit history, and estimated delivery date, directly from the app for a convenient tracking experience.
To stay updated, you can enable push notifications for tracking updates on the AfterShip Mobile App. This means you'll receive alerts when the status of your package changes.
Where and how to 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 USPS 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 International Tracking Number: CP 000 000 000 US
- Priority Mail Express Tracking Number: 9270 1000 0000 0000 0000 00 or EA 000 000 000 US
What does USPS tracking status mean?
| 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. |
Get real-time tracking notifications with AfterShip
With an AfterShip subscription or the AfterShip Mobile App, you can stay informed at every stage of your package with real-time tracking notifications. Whether you're waiting on a personal delivery or managing business shipments, AfterShip ensures you never miss an update.
How long does it take for USPS to update tracking?
USPS tracking updates are not always instantaneous and can vary based on where your package is in the system:
- After a package is scanned at USPS facility, tracking information typically appears within 24 hours.
- During high volume periods, late-day drop-offs, or if scanners are offline, it may take up to 48 hours—or occasionally several days—for updates to appear.
- In remote areas or during network issues, scans may be delayed until the next business day.
How to contact USPS to deal with the issue?
If you encounter problems like missing, delayed, or damaged USPS mail or packages, here are all verified ways to contact them and seek resolution:
Missing Mail Help Request (Online)
Visit the USPS "Missing Mail" page and fill out the help request form to start an official search. Your request goes to your local post office for follow-up. If nothing is found after 7 business days, you can submit a Missing Mail search request with shipment details and photos.
USPS Customer Service (Phone)
Call 1‑800‑275‑8777 (1‑800‑ASK‑USPS), available Monday–Friday 8 AM–8:30 PM ET, and Saturday 8 AM–6 PM ET, to report missing mail or file complaints.
Email Customer Service
Use the Email Customer Service form on the USPS "Contact Us" page to submit inquiries or report issues online.
File a Claim for Loss/Damage
For insured or Priority Mail Express items, start a claim online or call 1‑800‑ASK‑USPS to receive a domestic claim form via mail. Supplement with receipts and documentation within 60 days of shipping.
Visit Your Local Post Office
Go in person and speak directly with a postmaster or supervisor. They can assist in missing mail searches or complaints.
TTY Service for Hearing Impaired
Dial 7‑1‑1 to access Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) for hearing-impaired access to USPS customer service.
U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPS OIG)
To report criminal issues like mail theft or tampering, contact the Postal Inspection Service or Inspector General.
- USPS OIG Hotline: 1‑888‑877‑7644 (1‑888‑USPS‑OIG)
About USPS (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.
USPS Customer Services
- Official website: www.usps.com
Contact USPS Customer Services (U.S. Only)
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone number: 1-800-275-8777 (1-800-ASK-USPS®)
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
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.
Service areas
Domestic Coverage
The USPS delivers to every address in the U.S., covering:
- All 50 states, U.S. territories, military APO/FPO/DPO addresses
- 166.6 million delivery points—residential, business, and PO boxes
- 31,600+ retail locations and over 500,000 employees support universal access
International Coverage
USPS ships globally to over 180 countries (including Great Britain, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Australia), via:
- Priority Mail Express International
- Priority Mail International
- First-Class Package International
- Global Express Guaranteed (through FedEx)
Coverage and tracking vary by country and service
Service time
Domestic Mail & Shipping Services
| Service | Delivery Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Mail Express | 1-3 days | From $31.40 |
| Priority Mail | 2-3 days | Flat Rate Envelope: From $10.10 |
| USPS Mailing Box (Flat Rate): From $10.65 | ||
| Your Own Box By Weight/Zone: From $9.35 | ||
| USPS Ground Advantage | 2-5 days | From $5.25 |
| Media Mail | 2-8 days | From $4.63 |
| First-Class Mail | 1-5 days | From $0.56 (postcards) |
| From $0.73 (letters) | ||
| From $1.50 (large envelopes) |
International Mail & Shipping Services
| Service | Delivery Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Mail Express International | 3-5 business days | From $59.50 |
| Priority Mail International | 6-10 business days | From $30.90 |
| First-Class Package International Service | Varies by destination | From $17.85 |
| First-Class Mail International | Varies by destination | From $3.15 |
| Airmail M-Bags | Varies by destination | From $59.18 |
What are the differences between AfterShip and USPS?
While USPS provides the standard tracking services on the official website, tracking USPS packages through the AfterShip Package Tracking Page offers several advantages:
Multi-carrier tracking with 1,200+ carriers supported
Efficiently track shipments from 1,200+ global carriers, not limited to USPS, including FedEx, DHL, UPS, GLS, and more, eliminating the need to visit multiple carrier websites and simplifying multi-carrier shipment monitoring.
Integration with eCommerce platforms
Integrate seamlessly with major eCommerce and marketplace platforms like Shopify, Salesforce Commerce Cloud (SFCC), WooCommerce, Magento, BigCommerce, Amazon Seller Central, and more, enabling automated tracking updates and improving the post-purchase experience.
Scalability for both individual and business needs
Suitable for both individual shoppers and sellers who frequently handle large volumes of packages from various sources, offering scalable solutions for diverse shipping needs that are not limited by carrier restrictions.
- For individuals: Track all packages—regardless of the carrier or online store—in one place using AfterShip Package Tracking Page or Mobile App. AfterShip makes it easy to read and understand tracking details and receive real-time package status update notifications.
- For sellers: AfterShip supports multi-channel retailers, marketplaces, and logistics teams. With powerful tracking API and webhook, sellers can deliver a seamless post-purchase experience and scale operations effortlessly.
Why track and integrate USPS packages with AfterShip?
✅ Support for any shipment worldwide with full coverage
Easily track any shipments from parcel, trucking, freight, postal, express, and 3PL carriers worldwide, ensuring comprehensive coverage whether you're monitoring a single delivery or orders from multiple logistics providers.
✅ Carrier auto-detection by tracking number
The package tracking page automatically detects the shipping carrier through seamless integrations, ensuring accurate identification based on tracking number format to avoid manually selecting the courier and eliminate any guesswork.
✅ Detailed package status notifications for complete tracking visibility
Stay updated with every step of your package's delivery journey, including info received, in transit, out for delivery, available for pickup, failed attempt, delivered, pending, expired, and exception, all clearly displayed to provide complete visibility into the delivery process.
✅ AI-powered estimated delivery dates with high precision
View AI-powered estimated delivery dates, calculated from carrier reliability, route analysis, and delivery performance with up to 95% prediction accuracy so you can better plan for your package's arrival and reduce uncertainty around delivery timelines.
✅ Email alerts on status change for constant updates
Receive automatic email notifications whenever your package status changes, helping you stay informed without constantly checking the page or manually refreshing for new updates.
✅ Bulk tracking capability for efficient package management
Efficiently track up to 50 packages at once by entering multiple tracking numbers, giving you a convenient way to monitor all your shipments together in one place.
✅ Access to 1,200+ global carriers for comprehensive tracking
Seamlessly access tracking updates from 1,200+ international carriers including FedEx, UPS, DHL, USPS, and many more, enabling you to follow virtually any package worldwide with confidence.
✅ Multilingual tracking support for global communication
The tracking interface is available in 30+ languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, and Italian, making it easy to track packages in your preferred language.
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.
Why is my USPS tracking not updating?
Tracking may not update due to a missed scan, weather delays, or the package not being picked up yet. If no update appears for more than 5 days, you should contact USPS.
What should I do if my USPS package is marked as delivered but I didn’t receive it?
Check with neighbors or household members. If still missing after 24 hours, you can submit a Missing Mail Search request or contact USPS.
Can I receive USPS tracking updates on my phone?
You can use the AfterShip Mobile App or the USPS Mobile App to scan labels or enter your tracking or reference numbers. You can also enable push notifications for tracking updates on the AfterShip Mobile App or the USPS Mobile App to receive alerts when the status of your package changes.
Can I track a USPS package without a tracking number?
No, USPS requires the tracking number to access detailed status updates. However, if you created the shipment using a USPS account, you may retrieve the tracking number from your USPS.com dashboard or confirmation email.
What’s the difference between a USPS tracking number and a label number?
A USPS tracking number is often referred to as a label number. The number appears on the shipping label and is used interchangeably for tracking purposes.
What does USPS Tracking Plus® offer?
USPS Tracking Plus® allows you to extend access to tracking records for up to 10 years. This service is helpful for legal or archival needs and is available for many domestic mail classes.
Enhance the entire post-purchase experience with AfterShip
Integrate USPS and Multi-Carrier Tracking APIs
Easily integrate shipment tracking into your system or website for a seamless tracking experience. AfterShip's tracking API allows you to offer shipment visibility across multiple touchpoints without stretching your development resources.- Global coverage: 1,100+ carrier integrations and 52+ languages
- Accuracy: Normalized data and standardized 7 main-statuses and 33 sub-statuses
- Data integrity: AI helps recognize new tracking number patterns
- Uptime & Reliability: 99.99%+ uptime, ISO 27001, SOC2, and GDPR compliance
Recognized by customers for exceptional service
