In a nutshell: To track a USPS package, first find your unique tracking number on your receipt, shipping confirmation email, or package label. Visit the USPS Tracking website and enter this number to see real-time delivery status, which may include phases like Pre-Shipment, In Transit,
If you’re waiting for a package, you ordered or sent something to a friend, you may want to keep track of your parcel. The United States Postal Service (USPS) makes it easy to track your packages from the time they are processed until delivery. This guide, we’ll show you how to track USPS packages and let you know what to do if your package gets delayed or missing.
To track a package, you will need the tracking number. This unique code is assigned to every mailed item for tracking purposes. You can find it in several places, depending on how the item was sent or received:On your USPS receipt: If you shipped a package at a post office, your tracking number will be printed on your receipt.On your shipping confirmation email: If you purchased a label online (such as through USPS.com or an online retailer), check your confirmation email or account order details.On the package label: If you received a package, the tracking number is usually printed on the shipping label under the barcode.Tracking numbers are typically 22 digits long, though formats may vary depending on the service (e.g., Priority Mail, Certified Mail, or Global Express).
Once you have your tracking number, go to the USPS Tracking website. Enter the tracking number into the search box and click the little looking glass icon next to it.
In a few seconds, USPS will display your current tracking information.
Tip: You can track up to 35 packages at once by entering each tracking number on a separate line in the same box.
When you track a USPS package, you’ll see the delivery status, location, and timestamp of each update. Common statuses include:Pre-Shipment: USPS has received the shipping information, but not the package yet.In Transit: The package is on its way to the next postal facility or delivery location.Out for Delivery: The package is on the delivery truck and will arrive that day.Delivered: The package has reached its destination and was delivered to the address on file.Delivery Attempted: The carrier tried to deliver but couldn’t (e.g., signature required or mailbox full).
USPS offers a mobile App, so you can track your packages on the go. Download the App (available on iOS and Android) to track shipments, find ZIP codes, and locate post offices, all from your phone.
If your tracking shows “In Transit” for several days or seems stuck, don’t panic—sometimes scans are delayed. However, if it’s been more than 7 business days without movement, try these steps:Check your local post office: They can sometimes locate your package using internal scans.Submit a Missing Mail Search: Visit https://missingmail.usps.com to file an online request.Contact USPS Customer Service by clicking here.Make sure to provide your tracking number, sender and recipient information, and mailing date.
Tracking your USPS package is simple and reliable once you know where to look. With your tracking number, you can monitor every stop your shipment makes, online, by text, or through the USPS app. Should your package be delayed or missing, USPS offers plenty of tools to help locate it quickly.
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