Package tracking can be a real headache. Between delayed updates and confusing error messages, it’s easy to feel like you’re in the dark about the whereabouts of your USPS package.
This article will arm you with powerful USPS package tracking hacks that will help you stay on top of your shipments and put your mind at ease.
USPS Package Tracking Basics
USPS package tracking is a crucial service that allows customers to keep track of their packages during shipping. USPS live tracking provides information on the status of your package, including its current location and expected delivery date. USPS package tracking is available for both domestic and international packages.
How Does USPS Package Tracking Work?
Each customer’s package is assigned a unique tracking number. This tracking number is then scanned at various points throughout the shipping process, allowing USPS to track the package’s location and provide updates on its delivery status. Customers can view these updates on the USPS website or through a tracking app.
USPS Package Tracking Features and Benefits
In addition to providing real-time updates on the location of your package, USPS package tracking offers a variety of features and benefits to customers.
These include the ability to
- get an email or text notification about your package’s delivery status.
- redirect your package to a different address.
- schedule a delivery date that works for you.
- hold your package at a USPS location for pickup.
- receive proof of delivery for important packages.
Types of USPS Package Tracking Options
USPS offers several different types of package tracking options to meet the needs of different customers.
These include:
- USPS Tracking: This is the most basic tracking option and is available for most domestic packages. It provides updates on the package’s location and delivery status.
- Priority Mail: Priority Mail packages come with free USPS Tracking and provide faster delivery times.
- Priority Mail Express: This is the fastest USPS shipping option and comes with free USPS Tracking and insurance for your package.
- Global Express Guaranteed: This option provides international package tracking and fast delivery times.
Common Issues with USPS Package Tracking
USPS live tracking is a helpful feature that allows you to keep track of your packages as they make their way to their destinations. However, customers may encounter some common issues when using this service.
Lack of updates in the tracking system
While packages may be scanned at various points during shipping, these scans may not appear in the tracking system immediately. This can be problematic if you’re waiting for a time-sensitive package.
Incorrect tracking information
This can happen if the tracking number is incorrect or if the package has been misrouted. Sometimes, a package may even be marked as delivered when it hasn’t been.
Delayed or lost packages
Despite the best efforts of USPS, packages may sometimes be delayed or even lost in transit. If you notice that your package has not been delivered within the expected timeframe, check the tracking information for updates. If there hasn’t been any movement on the package in several days, contact USPS customer service for assistance.
Package delivery to the wrong address
The package may be delivered to another address if there is a mix-up in the delivery process. If you believe your package was delivered to the wrong address, check with your neighbors and local USPS branch to see if it was mistakenly delivered to them.
Advanced USPS Package Tracking Hacks
Here are some tips and tricks to improve your USPS package tracking experience.
How to Track USPS Packages Without a Tracking Number
Lost your USPS tracking number? No problem. You can still track your package by using USPS’s tracking tools. Firstly, use the “Track by Reference” option on the USPS tracking page. You can track your package by entering your
- Shipment reference number
- order number
- a specific keyword or phrase,
- your customer reference number.
Another option is to use third-party package tracking websites. These sites allow you to track your USPS package by entering your shipping details and relevant reference information.
Using USPS Informed Delivery for Package Tracking
USPS Informed Delivery is a free service that provides you with a digital preview of your incoming mail and packages.
With Informed Delivery, you’ll receive an email containing grayscale images of the exterior of your letter-sized mailpieces and select packages. The images are intended to provide a preview of what you can expect to receive in your mailbox that day.
You can also use the USPS mobile app to access your Informed Delivery account on the go. This service is a great way to keep track of your packages and know when they will arrive.
How to Set up USPS Package Tracking Alerts
Setting up USPS package tracking alerts helps you stay informed about your package’s delivery status. Go to the USPS website and sign up for email or text alerts. You can choose to receive alerts for all packages or just specific packages.
You’ll receive a notification when your package is shipped when it’s out for delivery, and when it’s delivered. You can also use the USPS mobile app to receive push notifications about your package’s delivery status.
Tips for Tracking International USPS Packages
Tracking international USPS packages can be a bit more complicated than tracking domestic packages.
Firstly, be sure to track your package using the USPS tracking number provided to you by the sender. The USPS tracking system will update as your package moves through the mail stream, including when it’s handed off to the international carrier.
However, once your package enters the destination country, it may no longer be tracked by the USPS tracking system. In this case, you may need to use the tracking system provided by the destination country’s postal service.
Some countries have more advanced tracking systems than others, so be sure to check with the destination country’s postal service for more information.
Conclusion
USPS package tracking hacks like tracking without a tracking number, leveraging Informed Delivery, setting up package tracking alerts, and tracking international packages, can unlock a whole new world of convenience and peace of mind.
So, the next time you’re waiting for a package, remember that with these tracking hacks, you can always stay one step ahead of the game.
