The United States Postal Service (USPS) is a vital federal agency responsible for delivering mail across the U.S., serving millions of homes, businesses, and P.O. boxes nationwide. As one of the largest employers in America, USPS operates a vast network to ensure reliable mail and package delivery.
How do I track USPS packages?
Tracking your USPS packages is simple. Once you have the USPS tracking number, you can enter it on the USPS website, a third-party tracking website or their mobile app to see the latest updates. You can also opt-in for email or text notifications to receive updates directly.
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 can only track its own packages, Ship24 offers a universal tracking system that simplifies package tracking. Ship24 continuously connects to thousands of couriers and online shops, ensuring you stay updated on your package's status. It can track packages globally, regardless of the courier.
To enhance the services of businesses or individuals, USPS is integrated with Ship24's tracking API, allowing users to access real-time tracking information across multiple platforms, ensuring seamless tracking experiences for all shipments.
On the USPS Website
If you prefer another way of tracking, you can do so on the USPS website by doing the following:
- Go to their official website.
- Enter your 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.
Other Tracking Methods
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.
International Package Tracking
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 progress. Both methods have an extensive network reaching continents such as Asia, Latin America, Europe, and more!
USPS Shipping Services
When using USPS shipping services, whether international or domestic, a tracking number is typically provided. This tracking number allows you to follow the progress of your packages. While most services offer tracking, certain options like First Class Mail and First Class Mail International do not include this feature.
Tracking the Services
- Priority Mail: the tracking numbers consist of 22 digits and can be tracked on the USPS website or third-party platforms.
- Priority Mail Express: the numbers contain 13 characters, starting with "E" and ending with "US". Tracking is available on the USPS website or universal tracking sites like Ship24.
- First Class Package: its tracking numbers, similar to Priority Mail, consist of 22 digits and can be tracked on USPS or other platforms.
- Priority Mail International: the tracking numbers follow the EMS format with 13 characters. These can be tracked on the USPS site.
- Priority Mail Express International: the format for Priority Mail Express International is similar to Priority Mail International.
- Global Express Guaranteed: the tracking number format is 10 digits long. This service is the fastest for international shipping and can be tracked on the USPS website or on Ship24.
Tracking Number Format of USPS
USPS tracking numbers typically consist of 20 to 22 digits. Express services often use a format starting with two letters, followed by nine digits, and ending with "US." This number is sometimes referred to as the US Mail Service Tracking Number or label number.
Examples
| Service | Example |
| USPS Tracking (First Class Package®) | 9401 5125 8912 4127 1539 27 |
| First-Class Mail® and First-Class Mail International® | tracking is not available for this service. |
| Priority Mail® | 9405 6193 1872 9849 8919 38 |
| Priority Mail Express® | EE 731 812 918 US (Priority Mail Express International and Priority International follow the same format.) |
| Global Express Guaranteed® | 82 457 341 90 |
Where to Find Your Tracking Number
To find your USPS tracking number, here are 5 convenient places to find it:
- Your shipping receipt
- Confirmation email
- On the shipping label
- By asking the sender
- Via SMS
USPS Tracking Statuses
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 label is made, and the package will soon be sent to a USPS facility. |
| Arrived at Post Office | The package is at a local office, and ready for delivery. |
| Arrived at USPS Regional Facility | The package has reached a regional facility. |
| Departed USPS Regional Facility | The package has left the regional facility. |
| Arrived at USPS Facility | The package is at a USPS facility. |
| Processed Through Facility | The package is registered and ready for overseas shipping. |
| In Transit to Next Facility | The package is en route to another facility. |
| Arrived Shipping Partner Facility, USPS Awaiting Item | A third-party courier has picked up the package, and it will soon be handed over to USPS. |
| Departed Shipping Partner Facility, USPS Awaiting Item | The package has left the courier and is on its way to USPS. |
| 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 package has been delivered to your mailbox. |
When you track your package on Ship24, you’ll see the tracking number, status, and additional information.
Delivery Time
USPS does not guarantee a specific delivery time for packages, as it can vary based on volume and location. Generally, deliveries are made by 5:00 pm local time, Monday through Saturday, with exceptions for Priority Mail Express and Amazon packages, which may arrive on Sundays.
Domestic Delivery Time
| Domestic Services | Delivery Time |
| First Class Mail | 1 to 5 working days |
| First Class Package Service and Priority Mail | 1 to 3 working days |
| Priority Mail Express | 1 to 2 days (usually gets delivered on Sunday) |
| USPS Retail Ground and Media Mail, Bound Printed Matter, and Library Mail | 2 to 8 working days |
| Package Select and Package Select Lightweight | 2 to 9 working days |
International Delivery Time
| USPS International Services | Delivery Time |
| First Class Mail International and 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 |
"Alert" Tracking Status Meaning
An "Alert" status in tracking signals a delay due to various issues, such as:
- Delivery problems, like a missed scan
- Address errors
- Package refusal or redirection
- Transfer to the Mail Recovery Center
USPS Package Intercept
This service allows senders or recipients to stop or redirect a package, letter, or flat before it’s delivered or out for delivery. It applies to most domestic mailings with a tracking or extra services barcode.
The service includes a $17.00 intercept fee, plus any applicable Priority Mail postage, but there’s no charge if the intercept is unsuccessful. Additionally, customers can add services like Adult Signature Required or insurance. The intercepted item can be returned to the sender or held at the local Post Office for pickup.
Sunday Deliveries by USPS
Yes, USPS delivers on Sundays, primarily for Priority Mail Express and certain Amazon packages, typically in urban areas. Rural locations usually receive deliveries on Monday. Although USPS generally operates from Monday to Saturday, Sunday delivery has expanded due to increased mail volume, especially in larger cities.
For most other types of mail, deliveries occur Monday through Saturday, with Sunday remaining a non-operating day except for specific services and holidays.
Contact USPS Customer Service
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 of experience, you can count on USPS's reliable service and trustworthiness.
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.
