If you often order items online or send packages to your loved ones, you may have noticed the option for USPS tracking. This service allows customers to keep tabs on the whereabouts of their packages and know when they can expect delivery. However, with so many different tracking statuses, it can be confusing to know what each one means. In this article, we will delve into the details of USPS tracking and the 9 different statuses that come with it.

Introduction to USPS Tracking

Before we get into the specifics of USPS tracking, let's first define what it is. In simple terms, USPS tracking is a service provided by the United States Postal Service that allows people to track their packages as they are in transit. This service provides customers with real-time updates on the location of their mailpiece or package and other important details such as delivery status.

What is USPS Tracking?

USPS tracking is a way for customers to know where their mailpiece or package is at any given moment. It assigns a unique tracking number to each package that customers can use to check their package's status. By using this tracking number, customers can follow their package as it moves through the USPS system until it is delivered to the intended recipient or P.O. Box.

Benefits of USPS Tracking

There are quite a few benefits of using USPS tracking. For one, it provides peace of mind to customers knowing where their package is at any given moment. Additionally, it allows customers to prepare for the delivery of their package, ensuring that someone is home to receive it or that they can arrange to have it held for pickup.

Another benefit of USPS tracking is that it can help resolve issues that may arise during the delivery process. For instance, if a package is lost or delayed, customers can use the tracking information to determine where the package was last scanned. This information can be used to file a claim with the USPS or to contact the sender or recipient of the package.

USPS tracking can also be useful for businesses that ship packages on a regular basis. By using USPS tracking, businesses can monitor the delivery status of their packages and ensure that they are delivered on time. This can help businesses maintain a positive reputation with their customers and avoid costly delays or lost packages.

Finally, USPS tracking is a convenient and easy-to-use service. Customers can track their packages online or through the USPS mobile app, making it easy to stay up-to-date on the status of their package while on-the-go. Additionally, USPS tracking is available for most domestic and international packages, making it a versatile service for customers who need to send or receive packages from around the world.

How USPS Tracking Works

Now let's take a closer look at how USPS tracking works. In general, USPS tracking begins when a mailpiece or package is first processed at a USPS facility. At that point, it is assigned a unique tracking number that can be used to follow its progress. This number is typically provided to customers by the sender through email or message.

Tracking Number Basics

The tracking number is a 20-digit combination of letters and numbers. It can be entered into the USPS website to obtain the status of the package. Once you have entered the tracking number into the USPS website, you will be able to view the different statuses that your package has gone through based on its location and the date and time it was scanned.

It's important to note that the tracking number is not just a random combination of letters and numbers. It is carefully crafted to ensure that it can be easily read and scanned by USPS tracking systems. The first four digits of the tracking number represent the type of service used to send the package, while the last two digits represent the destination ZIP code. The remaining digits are used to identify the specific package.

Tracking Your Package Online

If you want to track your package online, simply head to the USPS website and enter your tracking number. From there, you will be able to see the different statuses that your package has gone through. You can also sign up for email or text updates to receive notifications as your package status changes.

One of the benefits of tracking your package online is that you can see exactly where it is at any given time. This can be especially helpful if you are waiting for an important delivery and want to know when it will arrive. You can also use the online tracking system to verify that your package has been delivered, which can be helpful if you are concerned about package theft.

USPS Mobile App and Text Updates

USPS also has a mobile app that can be downloaded to your smartphone, making it easy to track your package no matter where you are. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded for free from the App Store or Google Play.

In addition to the mobile app, you can sign up for text updates that will send you notifications as your package status changes. This can be a convenient option if you don't have access to the internet or if you prefer to receive updates via text message.

Overall, USPS tracking is a reliable and convenient way to keep tabs on your packages as they make their way through the postal system. Whether you prefer to track your package online, through the mobile app, or via text message, USPS has you covered.

The 9 USPS Tracking Statuses

Pre-Shipment

Pre-Shipment is the first status that a package may have. This will often indicate that the label for the package has been printed, but the package hasn't yet been received by USPS personnel.

In Transit

The "In Transit" status means that your mailpiece or package is still on its way to its final destination and is currently in transit. This is a common status for packages, indicating that they are on their way but not yet ready for delivery.

Out for Delivery

"Out for Delivery" means that your package is now with the USPS carrier and is on its way to be delivered to your doorstep. You can expect to receive your package on the same day or the next day.

Delivered

"Delivered" indicates that your package has been successfully delivered to its intended recipient or the designated P.O. Box. If you haven't received your package, you should contact your local post office and file a report.

Available for Pickup

"Available for Pickup" means that your package is ready for pickup at the designated post office. If you can't get to the post office right away, USPS will hold your package for up to 15 days.

Delivery Attempted

"Delivery Attempted" means that the USPS carrier has attempted to deliver your package, but nobody was home to receive it. You will need to schedule a redelivery from the USPS website or pick it up at a post office.

Delivery Exception

"Delivery Exception" means that there is an issue with the delivery of your package, such as a wrong address or other delivery problem. In these cases, you will need to contact USPS to resolve the issue.

Returned to Sender

"Returned to Sender" means that your package was undeliverable and was returned to the original sender. This status can occur for a variety of reasons, including an insufficient address or a refusal to accept the package.

Awaiting Delivery Scan

"Awaiting Delivery Scan" indicates that your package has been processed and is on its way, but it has not yet been scanned by the USPS carrier for delivery. This status is common when a parcel is processed at a sorting facility, but the carrier hasn't yet picked it up.

Conclusion

Understanding USPS tracking and the 9 different statuses is essential if you regularly send or receive packages via USPS. With this knowledge, you can better prepare for the delivery of your package and ensure that you receive it on time. Remember that USPS tracking provides peace of mind and makes it easier to track your package throughout the entire shipping process. So, whether you are a sender or a recipient, make sure to keep an eye on your tracking status and stay informed every step of the way.