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Customer Experience Management

USPS Tracking Numbers: How to Track Your USPS Package [2025]

Discover how USPS tracking numbers work. From formats to digits, learn to interpret them and track your package throughout its journey when you use USPS.

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Mar 23, 2024

What is a USPS Tracking Number?

A USPS tracking number is a unique identifier for every package or mail item sent through the United States Postal Service. More than just a series of digits, it is a key tool for tracking a shipment's progress, verifying its delivery, and addressing any issues if the package is lost or delayed.

Tracking numbers vary in format depending on the mail class and service used, and they can be found on shipping receipts, confirmation emails, and package labels. While most USPS shipping services include tracking, some mail types require an additional fee for this feature. The USPS tracking number format may vary depending on the type of service used, and understanding it can help ensure accurate package tracking.

What Is Package Tracking?

Package tracking is the system that allows you to monitor the progress and location of your deliveries in real-time. This service lets you see precisely when your package is dispatched, its location, and estimated arrival time.

How It Works

Tracking Number: Every package receives a unique identifier known as a tracking number. This number is crucial for monitoring the parcel's journey.
Carrier Systems: Major shipping companies like FedEx, UPS, and DHL utilize sophisticated tracking technologies. These include scanning barcodes at each checkpoint, which updates the package status in real-time.
Notifications: Customers receive updates via email or text, detailing the package's whereabouts and any changes to its delivery schedule.

Why It's Important

Transparency: Know exactly where your package is at any moment.
Security: Assurance that your item is moving through the correct channels.
Convenience: Plan your day around the expected delivery time more efficiently.

The tracking number is typically provided by the seller through a confirmation email or printed on the shipping receipt. Whether you're eagerly awaiting a new gadget or vital documents, package tracking keeps you informed every step of the way. You can use a tracking number search on the USPS website to check the latest status of your shipment.

The Composition of a USPS Tracking Number

USPS tracking numbers vary in format based on their corresponding mail classes. It's essential to understand how to interpret these diverse formats.

Here's an overview of what USPS tracking numbers entail:

USPS Tracking: 9400 1000 0000 0000 0000 00
Priority Mail: 9205 5000 0000 0000 0000 00
Certified Mail: 9589 0000 0000 0000 0000 00
Collect on Delivery: 9303 3000 0000 0000 0000 00
Global Express Guaranteed: 82 000 000 00
Priority Mail Express: 9270 1000 0000 0000 0000 00
Priority Mail International: CP 000 000 000 US
Registered Mail: 9208 8000 0000 0000 0000 00
Signature Confirmation: 9202 1000 0000 0000 0000 00

What are the Steps to Track a Package Using USPS?

For tracking a package, follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Visit the United States Postal Service website.
Step 2: Enter your USPS tracking number, which is about 10 to 20 characters in length, into the search bar.
Step 3: Click on search to keep track of your delivery.

You’ll receive your package tracking number once you register your product for delivery. Note that USPS provides USPS tracking numbers for domestic deliveries and certain types of mail only. For small envelopes, First Class Mail, or Marketing Mail, USPS typically does not provide tracking numbers unless you pay a small additional fee.

Benefits of a USPS Account

Having a personal USPS account offers additional perks:

Monitor shipments without entering the tracking number each time.
Receive notifications on your mobile and email about the delivery status.

Remember, USPS is known for delivering products within two to three days nationwide and has been recognized for its value in small parcel deliveries. This reliability extends to managing and tracking multiple packages efficiently through their in-built tracking systems.

But, what does a USPS tracking number look like? You can refer to your shipping receipt or email confirmation.

What Services Does USPS Provide for Shipping?

When it comes to the shipping options, USPS provides a wide range of them to meet various mailing needs. Below is an overview of their key services:

Everyday Mailing Solutions:

First-Class Mail: Ideal for letters, postcards, and lightweight parcels. This service is cost-effective for sending everyday items quickly.
USPS Retail Ground: Suitable for heavier items that do not need to arrive quickly. This is a budget-friendly option for non-urgent parcels.

Priority Options:

Priority Mail: Ensures faster delivery times, typically within 1-3 business days. It includes USPS tracking codes and offers free package pick-up.
Priority Mail Express: The fastest service provided by USPS, guaranteeing delivery overnight or within two days, with money-back guarantees on late deliveries.

Special Handling:

Media Mail: An economical way to send educational materials such as books, DVDs, and CDs.
Certified Mail: Provides proof of mailing along with delivery confirmation for important documents or items requiring extra security.

What do USPS tracking numbers start with, you might ask. They often begin with digits that indicate the type of service used. For example, a 921 tracking number is associated with certain USPS services, while a 9200 tracking number may be used for others. Understanding these prefixes can help identify your package's shipping method.

These services are designed to handle various shipping requirements, from everyday mailing to urgent deliveries, ensuring that there is always an option to fit your specific needs. If you need a USPS tracking number decoder, USPS provides online resources to help interpret your tracking details.

Possible Formats of a USPS Tracking Number

All Numeric Upon observation of the listed numbers above, it becomes apparent that the USPS tracking number length varies from 20 to 22 digits, indicating domestic mail within the United States.

Alternative formats, such as those comprising only ten digits, are also utilized.

Alpha-Numeric If a USPS tracking number includes letters at the beginning, like EC or CP (as seen in the example provided under Priority Mail International), it signifies international mail.

Various other alpha-numeric formats for USPS tracking numbers exist as well. These may consist of 13 characters, typically commencing with two letters, followed by nine numbers, and concluding with US (e.g., EA 999 999 999 US). For example, a CP tracking number follows this format, starting with CP and ending with US, which signifies an international shipment.

How Many Digits Does It Contain?

If you are wondering how many numbers are in a USPS tracking number, the answer depends on the service type. It generally consist of 20 to 22 digits, with domestic tracking numbers typically having 22 digits and international ones following a different format.

Conversely, alpha-numeric tracking number formats are also prevalent, particularly in parcels originating from abroad.

Less common USPS tracking number formats may comprise solely ten digits or a 13-character alpha-numeric sequence, beginning with two letters, followed by nine digits, and concluding with US. If your USPS tracking number starts with specific letters, such as EC or CP, it likely belongs to an international shipment category.

Interpreting the Initial Four Digits

The initial four digits within a USPS tracking number disclose the type of mail service utilized by the package. These digits are commonly referred to as the service code.

For instance, tracking numbers commencing with 9400 signify the traditional USPS tracking code, while those starting with 9270 indicate Priority Mail Express shipments. If you have a 921 tracking number, it belongs to a specific USPS service category, which can be decoded using a USPS tracking number decoder.

USPS Tracking Status: What Does Each One Mean?

Once you enter your tracking status number, you'll see the status of your USPS delivery, or your tracking status.

Understanding USPS tracking statuses can be crucial in knowing the whereabouts of your package and its expected delivery timeline.

Here is a comprehensive guide to different USPS tracking statuses and what each means for you:

Delivered: This status indicates that the package has been successfully delivered at the recorded time and location specified for delivery.
In Transit / Arrived at USPS Facility / Departed USPS Facility: The package is currently being processed or is on its way through various USPS centers toward the delivery destination.
Out for Delivery: The package is with a carrier and is scheduled to be delivered on the day this status is active.
Arrived, Departed, or Picked Up by Shipping Partner Facility, USPS Awaiting Item / On its Way to USPS: This indicates that the package is still with a third-party shipping partner and has not yet been handed over to USPS. The package will soon be transferred to USPS for processing and delivery.
Insufficient Address / No Such Number: This status is applied when the package is un-deliverable due to incorrect or incomplete address information, causing its return to the sender.
No Access to Delivery Location: The delivery could not be completed because the carrier was unable to access the delivery location.
Notice Left (No Authorized Recipient Available): If a signature is required and no one is available to provide it, the carrier will leave a notice and the package will not be redelivered without further action by the recipient.
Available for Pickup: The package is available for pickup at a designated post office. Typically, this status appears if delivery was not possible.
Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item / Pre-Shipment Info Sent to USPS Awaiting Item: A shipping label has been generated, but USPS has yet to receive the package for processing and subsequent delivery.
Arrived at Post Office: The package has made it to the local Post Office and is being prepared for delivery, which is typically completed by the next business day.
USPS in Possession of Item: Indicates that USPS has officially taken possession of the package and begins its processing for final delivery.
Forwarded / Forwarded Processed: The package is being redirected to a new address, either due to an address change request or because it was initially sent to the wrong location.
Redelivery Scheduled / Reminder to Schedule Redelivery of your Item: Redelivery of the package has been scheduled after a failed delivery attempt, or a reminder has been issued to arrange for redelivery.
Delivery Status Not Updated / Awaiting Delivery Scan: There has been a delay in the package getting marked as delivered, especially if over 14 hours have passed since its status was set to "Out for Delivery".
Notice Left (No Secure Location Available): The carrier was unable to find a secure location to leave the package, causing the package to be returned to the post office. Redelivery is not automatic and must be requested.
Held at Post Office, At Customer Request: The package is being held at the post office at the request of the recipient, often due to a Hold Mail request or other delivery instructions.
Delivery Status not updated: This status may appear when the package is at the delivery stage but hasn’t been processed or updated as delivered yet.
Shipment Received, Package Acceptance Pending: Indicates that a container or pallet of packages has been received by a mail center but individual processing of the contained packages has not yet started.

These statuses provide detailed insights regarding the journey of your package through the USPS system, helping you to better anticipate its arrival.

Key Points

USPS tracking numbers typically consist of 20 to 22 digits, commencing with the number 9. However, for packages shipped internationally, alphanumeric codes are utilized instead.
Deciphering your USPS tracking number is facilitated by the initial four digits, which provide comprehensive information regarding the type of service employed for your package.

Conclusion

Whether you're using Priority Mail, Certified Mail, or international services, USPS tracking provides essential updates on your package’s journey. With various statuses indicating its progress, this system helps streamline shipping for both senders and recipients. Setting up a USPS account further enhances convenience by allowing automated tracking and notifications, making package management more efficient.

FAQs on USPS Tracking and Tracking Numbers

Tracking your parcel is easier than you might think. Here are the steps to help you locate that essential tracking number:

Purchase Confirmation Email:

Upon completing an online purchase, most retailers will send a confirmation email.
This email typically includes a tracking number along with your order details.

Online Store Account:

Log into your account on the retailer's website.
Navigate to the order history or order status section.
Find the relevant order to see its tracking number.

Text Notifications:

Some shipping services allow you to get updates via text.
You can send a specific keyword followed by your tracking number to the carrier’s designated SMS number, and they’ll reply with your shipment status.

Delivery Receipt:

Check any included paperwork if you've already received part of your order.
Delivery receipts or invoices may have the tracking number listed.

Customer Support:

When all else fails, contact the store's customer service.
Provide details such as your order number and email address to get assistance in finding your tracking number.

Remember, each retailer might have a slightly different process, so it's always a good idea to check their specific instructions or FAQs as well.

Certainly, you can reach out to USPS regarding a package by calling their tracking assistance number at 1-800-222-1811. Their customer service team is available from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM Eastern Time on weekdays and from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM Eastern Time on Saturdays.

The United States Postal Service does not provide specific times for when a letter carrier will arrive at a particular address. Typically, deliveries are completed by 5:00 p.m. from Monday through Saturday. It's important to note that there can be exceptions due to unforeseen issues such as extreme weather conditions, which may cause delays. Regarding Sunday deliveries, they are limited to Priority Mail Express items and parcels from Amazon.

The delivery times for various USPS services are as follows:

Domestic Services:

Priority Mail Express guarantees delivery within 1-2 days.
Priority Mail typically takes 1-3 working days.
First-Class Mail is delivered in 1-5 business days.
First-Class Package Service, USPS Retail Ground, and Parcel Select Ground all have delivery windows of 2-5 business days.
Parcel Select Lightweight and other package services can take 2-8 business days.
Periodicals and Marketing Mail have the longest delivery range of 3-10 business days.

International Services:

Global Express Guaranteed offers delivery within 1 business day to Canada and 1-3 business days to other countries.
Priority Mail Express International can be expected to deliver items within 3-5 business days.
Priority Mail International requires 6-10 business days for delivery.
Delivery times for First-Class Package International Service and First-Class Mail International can vary significantly depending on the destination.

These time frames provide a general guideline, but actual delivery times may vary based on specific locations and other factors.

If you find yourself in a situation where your mail hasn't been delivered, here are detailed steps you can take to address the issue:

1. Verify Shipping and Product Information: Initially, confirm that your delivery protocol matches with that of your chosen shipping service. Make sure the details of your shipped product and service are aligned. Also, check for any notifications on delays that might affect the delivery of your mail or package.

2. Track Your Mail: Use the tracking feature available on the USPS website to check the latest status of your mail. This can provide you with immediate updates and allow you to see if the mail is still in transit or has encountered any issues.

3. File an Online Help Request: If tracking doesn't resolve or clarify the issue, you should fill out an online help request form. By doing this, you escalate the matter to USPS, prompting them to look into the situation further.

4. Contact Your Local Post Office: After submitting the online help request, get in touch with your local Post Office. They can offer additional information and assistance in tracing your undelivered mail.

5. Submit a Missing Mail Search Request: If, after waiting 7 business days following your initial online help request, your mail or package still hasn’t arrived, you should submit a missing mail search request. This can be done through the USPS website, where you will also receive a confirmation upon submission.

Each of these steps helps to systematically trace and, hopefully, recover your undelivered mail. For more detailed information or specific instructions, visiting the USPS official website is advisable, where step-by-step guidance is provided.

If you suspect your mail is lost, follow these steps to locate it:

1. Track Your Mail: Start by visiting the USPS Tracking website to check the latest status of your mail. This can provide you with up-to-date information on its whereabouts.

2. Submit a Help Request: If tracking your mail doesn't answer your questions, the next step is to fill out an online help request form on the USPS website. This allows you to initiate an inquiry into the location of your mail.

3. Contact Your Local Post Office: After submitting the online help request, get in touch with your local Post Office. They can offer assistance and provide more detailed information about your mail's status.

4. Request a Mail Search: If your mail has not arrived within 7 business days after filing your online help request, you should submit a missing mail search request through the USPS website. Upon doing this, you will receive a confirmation email.

For more information on each of these steps, including detailed guidance on how to fill out the forms mentioned, visit the USPS official website. They provide comprehensive instructions and additional support options.

If you've misplaced the tracking number for your USPS package, you can still monitor its delivery status by utilizing the USPS Informed Delivery feature. This service is offered at no cost and can be accessed after setting up an account with USPS. Here’s how you can get started:

1. Create a USPS Account: Visit the USPS website and register for an account.

2. Sign Up for Informed Delivery: Once you are logged into your account, apply for the Informed Delivery service. You’ll need to check whether your address is eligible for this service.

3. Complete Enrollment: If your address is eligible, proceed with the enrollment by selecting 'Informed Delivery' from the available services. Opt into the service and complete any required identity verification processes.

4. Track Your Packages: After enrollment, you will be able to view digital previews of your mail and track the delivery status of your packages through the Informed Delivery dashboard.

By following these steps, you can effectively keep tabs on your USPS shipments even without a tracking number.

The United States Postal Service generally maintains package tracking details for a period of 120 days. However, for certain types of services, USPS may keep the tracking information for as long as two years.

The majority of USPS services feature tracking numbers with 20 to 22 digits, except for international packages, which are represented by alpha-numeric codes starting with letters. Tracking numbers ranging from 20 to 22 digits are the longest within the system.

Every USPS tracking number begins with the digit 9. Still, there might be slight variations for international packages, as they start with letters (EC or CP) instead.

USPS does offer live tracking for packages; however, updates might not be provided on Sundays except for those sent via Priority Mail Express, which is specifically designed to offer full weekend tracking support including detailed updates. For other mail services, weekend tracking capability, particularly on Sundays, might be limited.

Balancing cost, convenience, and reliability is crucial when selecting a shipping service for your small business. Let's compare USPS, UPS, and FedEx to help you make an informed decision.
1. USPS: Affordable and Convenient
• Affordability: USPS is a go-to for budget-friendly rates, especially for lightweight packages.
• Convenience: Extensive location coverage and free pickup services make USPS a practical choice for many small businesses.
• Delivery Speed: Offers reliable delivery options that suit non-urgent shipments.
2. UPS: Reliable Service with Comprehensive Solutions
• Consistency: Known for dependable delivery windows and robust tracking capabilities.
• Service Range: UPS is ideal for managing larger volumes, with services ranging from ground to expedited shipping.
• Cost: While generally more expensive than USPS, UPS offers competitive rates for heavier packages and time-sensitive deliveries.
3. FedEx: Competitive Pricing with Flexibility
• Efficiency: FedEx is renowned for fast delivery, including overnight options.
• Global Reach: With a strong international presence, FedEx benefits businesses looking to expand globally.
• Customization: Offers a wide range of services tailored to meet specific business needs.
Choosing the Right Carrier
• For cost-effective small shipments: USPS is typically the best option.
• For reliable service with tracking and delivery guarantees: UPS stands out, despite its higher costs.
• For specialized shipping needs with flexible pricing: FedEx offers a comprehensive range of options.
Understanding these differences can help optimize your shipping strategy, ensuring both cost-efficiency and reliability for your business.

Creating shipping labels is a key part of order fulfillment. Here's a simple guide to help you get started:

1. Using Carrier Websites:

Access the carrier's online portal.
Enter the sender and recipient details, along with the package weight and dimensions.
Generate the label and download it as a PDF.
Print and attach the label using a standard printer.

2. Shipping Software:

Choose shipping software that integrates with your e-commerce platform.
Sync your orders automatically with the software.
Bulk-generate labels to save time.
Print labels using a thermal or laser printer and attach them to your packages.

3. Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Providers:

Partner with a 3PL provider that meets your shipping needs.
Provide them with order details; they handle the rest.
The 3PL will generate, print, and attach labels before shipping your products.

Tips for Efficient Label Creation:

Invest in a thermal printer for professional-quality labels.
Use presta-ready labels to streamline the printing process.
Always double-check address details to avoid delivery issues.

Whether you’re handling a few packages or managing a large volume, these methods will help you create shipping labels efficiently and accurately.

Customer Experience Management

USPS Tracking Numbers: How to Track Your USPS Package [2025]

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What is a USPS Tracking Number?