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Customer Experience Management

What is the format of a USPS tracking number? (2024)

Discover how USPS tracking numbers work! From formats to digits, learn to interpret them and decode your package's journey. Get insights now.


When you send or receive packages through USPS, they are assigned a distinct tracking number.

But what exactly does a USPS tracking number resemble? Here's a breakdown of its structure and significance:

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

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

Possible Formats of a USPS Tracking Number

All Numeric Upon observation of the listed numbers above, it becomes apparent that some consist of 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).

How Many Digits Does It Contain?

The prevalent USPS tracking number formats generally consist of 20 to 22 digits.

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.

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.

Common Queries about USPS Tracking Numbers

What is the starting sequence for all USPS tracking numbers?

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.

Which USPS service boasts the longest tracking number?

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.

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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.

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