The United States Postal Service (USPS) stands as an important agency of the U.S. federal government, dedicated to delivering mail across the nation. With numerous residences, businesses, and P.O. boxes, USPS connects every corner of the country and with a fleet of over 640,000 employees, it's among America's largest employers and operates one of the most extensive computer networks globally.
How to Get Tracking on the USPS Website
Tracking your package on the USPS website can be done by doing the following:
- Go to the USPS tracking website.
- Enter your USPS tracking number. You can enter up to 35 tracking numbers, all separated by commas.
- Click "Track".
- You'll be directed to another page where you will be able to see the latest updates of your packages.
How to Track USPS Packages and Mail on Ship24
To track your USPS packages and mail on Ship24, you can follow these simple steps:
- Head to the Ship24 homepage or the search field above.
- Enter your tracking numbers and hit the search button.
- After a few seconds, you will see close to real-time updates of your packages.
While USPS tracking can only track USPS packages, the universal Ship24 tracking system makes package tracking a non-issue. Ship24 constantly connects and scans thousands of couriers and even more online shops, making sure you keep the most up-to-date with any developments on your USPS package. it can perform global tracking regardless of the courier.
Other Methods to Get USPS Tracking
If you tried tracking through the USPS website, a third-party tracking tool, or have no internet connection, you can try these other methods:
- Text message: type in your tracking number and send it to 28777 (2USPS).
- Mobile app: download the USPS mobile app on the iOS or Android store.
- Call: contact their customer service by calling 1-800-222-1811 and inquire about your package.
Tracking International USPS Packages
If you are tracking your package outside of the United States, the USPS website and international tracking websites like Ship24 can be great options to get updated on your package's journey.
USPS Shipping Services
Depending on the USPS shipping service, be it an international or domestic service, a USPS tracking number will be provided to you. You can use this tracking number to track your packages and while tracking is available for most services, some services like First Class Mail and First Class Mail International do not provide package tracking.
Tracking USPS Priority Mail
The tracking number for the Priority Mail service consists of 22 digits and can be tracked on the USPS website or on a third-party tracking website.
Tracking USPS Priority Mail Express
Priority Mail Express tracking numbers consist of 13 digits starting with 2 letters, the first letter being the letter "E", which is then followed by a 9-digit number, and ending with the United States country code, which is "US".
To get Priority Mail Express tracking, you can head to the USPS tracking website or Ship24, a universal tracking website.
Tracking USPS First Class Package
Just like the USPS Priority Mail, First Class Package tracking numbers consist of 22 digits as well and entering the tracking number can be done on the tracking website of USPS or on any tracking website.
Tracking USPS Priority Mail International
The tracking number of USPS Priority Mail International contains 13 digits with the first two letters following the format of EMS, followed by a 9-digit number, and ending with "US". You can get USPS tracking notifications directly on their website or by entering your tracking numbers in the search field above.
Tracking USPS Priority Mail Express International
USPS Priority Mail Express International tracking number is similar to the Priority Mail International tracking number. They both start with two capital letters, then by a 9-digit number, and end with "US".
Tracking USPS Global Express Guaranteed
USPS Global Express Guaranteed tracking number consists of 10 digits and it is considered to be the fastest way to send packages internationally. You can get your USPS tracking from this service directly on their website or on the homepage of Ship24.
Tracking Number Format of USPS
The tracking number format of USPS consists of 20 to 22 digits while the format for express services typically begins with 2 letters, followed by 9 digits, and ends with "US." This tracking number is also known as the US Mail Service Tracking Number or label or article number.
However, there are several different types of USPS tracking numbers, including those for Priority Mail Express, First-Class Package Service, and Express Mail. Each of these tracking numbers has a specific format that can be used to determine the type of shipment being tracked.
Examples
- USPS Tracking: 9401 5125 8912 4127 1539 27
- First-Class Mail®: tracking is not available for this service.
- Priority Mail®: 9405 6193 1872 9849 8919 38
- Priority Mail Express®: EE 731 812 918 US
- First Class Package®: 9210 4591 9103 3901 41
- First-Class Mail International®: tracking is not available for this service.
- Priority Mail Express International®: EC 812 975 383 US
- Priority Mail International®: EK 498 981 641 US
- Global Express Guaranteed®: 82 457 341 90
USPS Tracking Status
To understand a USPS package event update, some of the USPS tracking status is listed below:
| Status | Description |
| Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item | The package's shipping label is made, and it will be transferred to a USPS facility soon. |
| Arrived at Post Office | The package is at a local office and is ready to be delivered. |
| Arrived at USPS Regional Facility | The package has reached a regional facility or a distribution centre. |
| Departed USPS Regional Facility | The package has left a regional facility or a distribution centre. |
| Arrived at USPS Facility | The package has reached one of USPS' facilities. |
| Processed Through Facility | The package has been processed or registered at a facility and is ready to be shipped overseas. |
| In Transit to Next Facility | The package is on its way to another facility. |
| Arrived Shipping Partner Facility, USPS Awaiting Item | The package has been picked up by a third-party courier and will soon be delivered to USPS for the final delivery. |
| Departed Shipping Partner Facility, USPS Awaiting Item | The package has left the third-party courier and is on its way to USPS for the final delivery. |
| Out for Delivery | The package is being delivered. |
| Out for Delivery, Expected Delivery by | The package is being delivered and will be delivered at the given time. |
| Delivered, In/At Mailbox | The mail, postcard, or package is in your mailbox and has been delivered to you. |
When you track your USPS tracking numbers on Ship24, your tracking results will show your tracking number, status, and additional information regarding your packages.
Tracking Number of USPS Not Updating
When the USPS tracking order or package is not being updated, it could be because the package has been registered for a tracking number but USPS has not received the package yet. Another case would be that USPS has received the package but has not scanned the package. Wait a few hours before tracking the package again.
Also, double-check the tracking number that you have entered. In some cases, a missing or mistyped letter or number could affect the results of the package you're tracking.
If tracking is still not available after a few days, there could be some issues with deliveries. In that case, it is best to contact the USPS customer team for assistance.
How long does the USPS package take to deliver?
There is no exact estimated time of delivery for the USPS orders or packages as the volume and the location of the packages may vary. Although, all USPS packages are deemed to be delivered by 5:00 pm local time on Mondays to Saturdays with the exception of Priority Mail Express and Amazon packages, which are delivered on Sundays.
USPS Domestic Delivery Time
| USPS Domestic Services | Delivery Time |
| First Class Mail | 1 to 5 working days |
| First Class Package Service | 1 to 3 working days |
| Priority Mail | 1 to 3 working days |
| Priority Mail Express | 1 to 2 days (usually gets delivered on Sunday) |
| USPS Retail Ground | 2 to 8 working days |
| Media Mail, Bound Printed Matter, and Library Mail | 2 to 8 working days |
| Package Select and Package Select Lightweight | 2 to 9 working days |
USPS International Delivery Time
| USPS International Services | Delivery Time |
| First Class Mail International | varies on destination |
| First Class Package International | varies on destination |
| Priority Mail Express International | 3 to 5 business days |
| Priority Mail International | 6 to 10 business days |
| Global Express Guaranteed | 1 to 3 business days |
USPS Package Intercept
USPS Package Intercept is a service that allows senders or recipients to stop the delivery or redirect a package, letter, or flat that has not yet been delivered or is not out for delivery. This service is available for most domestic mailings that have a tracking or extra services barcode.
The cost for Package Intercept includes the non-refundable intercept fee of $17.00 and any applicable Priority Mail postage. However, you will not be charged if the shipment is not successfully intercepted. Moreover, retail and commercial customers may purchase extra services for the intercepted package, such as an Adult Signature Required or insurance.
The intercepted shipment can either be returned to the sender or held at the local Post Office for pickup.
How to Contact USPS about Tracking
You can reach USPS customer service by phone or email, and they are available from Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. ET and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
- For Domestic and International tracking: 1-800-222-1811.
- For general inquiries or issues: 1-800-275-8777 (This is the main customer service number and also the number that has a higher chance of getting you connected to a real USPS customer service representative).
About the United States Postal Service (USPS)
Established in 1775, the United States Postal Service (USPS) stands as one of America's oldest government agencies. The USPS offers a range of services to the public, from delivering mail and letters to packages and other postal items. With more than two centuries' worth of experience, you can count on reliable service and trustworthiness with USPS.
Located in the heart of Washington D.C., the United States Postal Service offers a vast network of post offices, processing and delivery centers, and vehicles that provide fast shipping to millions of customers nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In this section, you'll find frequently asked questions related to USPS tracking.
Does USPS deliver on Sunday?
Yes, the United States Postal Service (USPS) does deliver on Sundays, primarily for Priority Mail Express and specific Amazon packages. This service is available in urban areas, with rural locations often waiting until Monday for deliveries. While USPS's usual business days are Monday to Saturday, Sunday delivery has been expanded in response to the increasing volume of mail, especially in major cities.
However, for most other types of mail, deliveries are typically made Monday through Saturday, with Sunday being a non-operating day except for certain special services and holidays.
Where can I find my USPS tracking number?
To find your USPS tracking number, here are 5 convenient places to find it:
- The USPS shipping receipt.
- The confirmation email.
- Printed on the shipping label.
- By asking the sender of the package.
- By SMS.
What does "Alert" mean on my tracking status?
The "Alert" status in USPS tracking indicates that there is a problem that has caused a delay in the shipment of your package. This message can arise from different issues related to the delivery process. Here are some possible reasons for an "Alert" status:
- Delivery Issues: The "Alert" status could mean issues like "Awaiting delivery scan," which happens when an appropriate delivery event hasn’t occurred after the package was marked as "Out for Delivery."
- Address Problems: If USPS encounters problems with the package's address, such as incorrect or incomplete details, this can trigger an "Alert" status.
- Package Refusal or Redirection: An "Alert" might also mean the recipient has refused the item upon delivery or the package has been forwarded due to an existing forwarding order.
- Mail Recovery Center: In cases where USPS cannot deliver, forward, or collect the package, it may be transferred to the Mail Recovery Center, which is also indicated by an "Alert" status.
- General Delivery Delay: The "Alert" message generally indicates that some problem has arisen which will delay the shipment of your package. In such situations, USPS encourages customers to contact their support line for more information.
