The United States Postal Service (USPS) is the primary carrier for domestic mail and lightweight package delivery across the United States. If you are shipping within the U.S. or receiving an import from abroad, USPS is often the carrier handling the final delivery to your door.
To track your package, enter your tracking number in the search bar at the top of this page for real-time status updates.
How to track your USPS package
You can find your tracking number on your mailing receipt, in your shipping confirmation email, or under the barcode on the shipping label.
USPS tracking formats
Standard USPS tracking numbers are numeric, but the format varies by service:
- Standard Domestic (IMpb): A 22-digit numeric sequence (e.g.,
9400128206227943500115). - International Mail: A 13-character alphanumeric code starting with two letters and ending with
US(e.g.,EA123456789US).
USPS delivery services compared
USPS offers different delivery speeds depending on your requirements:
| Service Level | Delivery Estimates | Included Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| USPS Ground Advantage | 2 to 5 business days | Up to $100 |
| Priority Mail | 1 to 3 business days | Up to $100 |
| Priority Mail Express | Next-Day to 2-Day (Guaranteed) | Up to $100 |
| Priority Mail International | 6 to 10 business days | Varies |
Common tracking statuses explained
Understanding these common tracking updates helps you know what is happening with your shipment:
- Pre-Shipment / Shipping Label Created: The sender printed the shipping label, but the physical package has not yet been scanned by USPS.
- Arrived at USPS Facility: The package has reached a regional distribution hub or local post office.
- In Transit / In Transit, Arriving Late: The package is moving between sorting facilities. If it is "arriving late", it has missed its expected delivery day but remains inside the network.
- Out for Delivery: The mail carrier has loaded the package onto their vehicle and will attempt delivery today.
- Delivered: The package was scanned as delivered at your address.
Troubleshooting tracking issues
Why has my tracking status not updated?
USPS tracking updates are not real-time. Scans occur when a package arrives at or departs from a sorting facility. During long-distance transits, a package might not receive a new scan for several days.
What should I do if a package says "Delivered" but is missing?
Check with family members or neighbors first. Apartment residents should check shared parcel lockers or mail rooms. Carriers sometimes scan packages as delivered shortly before arrival. If it does not show up within 24 hours, contact your local post office immediately so they can check the GPS coordinates of the delivery scan.