Are you looking for a comprehensive guide to USPS tracking numbers? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this post, we will provide an overview of USPS tracking numbers and 10 key things to know about them. We will explain how to use them, the different types of tracking numbers, how to interpret the information they provide, and more. By the end of this post, you will have a clear understanding of how USPS tracking numbers work and how to make the most of them.
What is a USPS Tracking Number?
A USPS tracking number is a unique number assigned to each item sent through the United States Postal Service (USPS). It is used to track the package’s movement through the USPS network and to provide delivery confirmation.
Tracking numbers allow customers to stay up-to-date on the location of their packages and when they are expected to be delivered.
By entering their tracking number into the USPS website, customers can view detailed information about their shipments, such as the current location, estimated delivery date, and past scan events.
Tracking numbers are also printed on shipping labels and customers may receive an email notification when their package has been shipped.
For customers who have opted-in for text notifications, they can also receive SMS updates on the progress of their shipment. If you are sending a package through USPS, it is important to use a tracking number to ensure that it arrives safely and on time.
If you are expecting a package, having the tracking number allows you to quickly check on the status of your shipment so that you know exactly when to expect it.
How to Get a USPS Tracking Number?
One of the most useful features of the United States Postal Service (USPS) is the tracking number associated with packages and letters.
With a USPS tracking number, you can get real-time updates on the status of your package or letter. This makes it easier to know when you should expect your item to arrive.
Getting a USPS tracking number is a simple process. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Visit your local post office or log into your USPS account online.
- Purchase the appropriate postage for your item, or pay for shipping if you’re using an online vendor.
- Request a tracking number from the clerk or online vendor.
- Place the tracking number sticker onto your item. If you’re sending the item online, you may have the option of printing out the label that contains the tracking number.
- Hand off your item to the post office or ship it through an online vendor.
By following these steps, you should be able to get a USPS tracking number for your item and be able to track it every step of the way.
Keep in mind that certain services such as first-class mail do not provide tracking numbers. To ensure your item is eligible for tracking, consider opting for a service like Priority Mail or Express Mail.
How Does a USPS Tracking Number Work?
A USPS Tracking Number is a unique identifier that is assigned to an item when it is shipped through the United States Postal Service (USPS).
The tracking number allows both the sender and the recipient to track the package as it moves through the mail system.
The USPS Tracking Number is typically printed on a sticker or label that is affixed to the package.
This label contains the barcode, which is used to scan the item’s progress as it moves through the postal system.
The USPS Tracking Number is typically made up of either 20 or 22 alphanumeric characters.
The 20-character version is typically used for domestic packages, while the 22-character version is typically used for international shipments.
It is important to note that the USPS Tracking Number is different than a postage meter impression, which is also used to track packages.
The USPS Tracking Number allows you to follow your package from its origin to its destination. It also allows you to confirm the delivery of your package and view estimated delivery times.
You can track your package in real-time online, via the official USPS website, or through the use of a third-party tracking service.
What Do The Different Parts Of a USPS Tracking Number Mean?
When tracking your shipment with the United States Postal Service (USPS), you’ll come across a tracking number. Understanding what each part of this number means can help you to better track your packages.
The USPS tracking number consists of 22 characters, usually divided into four parts. Here’s a breakdown of each part:
- The first two characters represent the type of service used to ship the package, such as Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, or First Class Mail.
- The next nine characters are the package’s serial number and include letters and numbers.
- The 12th and 13th characters are the routing code for the package. This information can be used to identify the exact post office where the package was processed.
- The last seven digits represent the delivery zip code for the package.
It’s important to keep in mind that different services and carriers have different tracking numbers.
Make sure you have the correct number and are using the right tracking service to ensure accurate results.
What are the Different Types of USPS Tracking Numbers?
When it comes to sending mail and packages, USPS tracking numbers are an essential part of the process.
Tracking numbers allow you to keep track of your package’s progress while it is in transit. Knowing the different types of USPS tracking numbers and what they mean can help make the shipping process easier and more efficient.
There are two main types of USPS tracking numbers: Delivery Confirmation (DC) and Electronic Verification System (eVS). Delivery Confirmation is the most common form of USPS tracking and is used for packages sent within the United States.
This type of tracking number includes up to 22 characters, which generally consist of letters and numbers.
The DC number allows customers to track the progress of their package from its origin to its destination.
The second type of USPS tracking number is the eVS number, which is used for bulk shipping services.
This type of tracking number consists of up to 11 characters, which typically contain only numbers. This type of tracking number is used for packages that are sent using a USPS bulk shipping service, such as Priority Mail or Parcel Post.
No matter which type of USPS tracking number you have, it is important to keep it in a safe place until your package has been delivered.
Having your tracking number handy can help you ensure that your package arrives at its destination in a timely manner.
How Long is a USPS Tracking Number Valid For?
USPS Tracking Numbers are one of the most essential pieces of information for customers and businesses alike, providing a way to track shipments and deliveries. But how long is a USPS Tracking Number valid for?
The answer is that USPS Tracking Numbers can remain valid up to one year after the date of mailing.
This means that customers and businesses can use these numbers to track shipments, follow delivery progress, and make sure packages are arriving on time.
However, after one year has passed, the USPS Tracking Number will no longer be valid.
In addition to tracking shipments, USPS Tracking Numbers can also be used to prove that packages were sent or received.
It’s important to keep USPS Tracking Numbers until shipments have been successfully delivered, as these numbers may be required for proof of shipment in certain circumstances.
To sum up, USPS Tracking Numbers are an important tool for businesses and customers alike. With USPS Tracking Numbers, it’s easy to keep tabs on the progress of your shipments and ensure that they arrive on time.
However, it’s important to note that USPS Tracking Numbers are only valid for one year, so make sure to save them until packages have been successfully delivered.
How Much Does it Cost to Use a USPS Tracking Number?
Tracking your shipments with a USPS Tracking Number is an essential part of shipping packages with the United States Postal Service (USPS).
But you may be wondering how much it costs to use a USPS Tracking Number.
Using a USPS Tracking Number on your shipments is quite cost-effective. Depending on the type of shipping service you select, there is typically no extra charge to add a tracking number to your package.
For example, for First-Class Package Service and Priority Mail, USPS does not charge an additional fee for the tracking number; it is included in the postage price. In some cases, Priority Mail Express and certain international shipping services do include an additional charge for tracking information.
To get an accurate quote for the cost of using a USPS Tracking Number, use the USPS Shipping Calculator.
You can enter the details of your shipment including the weight, destination, and shipping service to get an estimated cost for delivery.
In addition to helping you calculate the cost of a package with a USPS Tracking Number, the Shipping Calculator also provides other useful information, such as estimated delivery times, guaranteed delivery dates, and pricing for different shipping options.
If you want to track a package without using a USPS Tracking Number, you can purchase Delivery Confirmation or Signature Confirmation at your local Post Office.
The fee for these services will vary depending on the type of service you choose and the destination of your package.
What if I Lose my USPS Tracking Number?
Losing your USPS Tracking Number can be a real hassle. But there are a few steps you can take to try and retrieve it.
First, check your shipping confirmation email. Many times, the tracking number is included in the email from the time you placed your order.
It’s also possible that the seller included the tracking number in the order details or packing slip.
If you still can’t find it, contact the seller directly and ask for the tracking number. If you paid for a shipping label online, like with PayPal, look for the receipt and you should find the tracking number there.
In some cases, you may need to contact USPS directly to try and retrieve the lost tracking number. You can either call them via 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777) or visit your local post office. When calling, make sure to have your address, order information, or any other details handy that might help identify the package you’re looking for.
In the worst-case scenario, you may need to place another order and pay for a new shipping label to get your item delivered.
However, many times a USPS representative can help you locate your lost tracking number and get your package on its way.
Can I Track a Package Without a USPS Tracking Number?
When you are expecting a package to be delivered by USPS, it is important to know the tracking number associated with it.
This will help you keep tabs on where your package is in transit and when you can expect it to arrive. But what happens if you don’t have a USPS Tracking Number? Can you still track the package?
The short answer is yes – there are several ways to track a package without a USPS Tracking Number. If you sent a package through USPS and did not receive a tracking number for it, there are still some options available to you.
First, you can try checking the shipping label for any barcodes or other identifying information. It’s possible that a barcode may have been scanned during the shipment process and that information can be used to track the package.
Additionally, if you know the address the package was sent to and the approximate time of shipment, you can use the USPS website’s Informed Delivery feature to track the package.
Another option is to contact the sender of the package and request the tracking number for it. In some cases, senders may have the tracking number even if they didn’t provide it to you originally.
If all else fails, you can also contact your local post office and ask them to track the package by its address and approximate delivery date.
While it may not always be easy to track a package without a USPS Tracking Number, these options can help you locate your shipment and give you an idea of when it will arrive.
What Other Couriers offer Tracking Services?
In addition to USPS tracking numbers, there are several other couriers that offer tracking services.
While USPS is the largest postal service in the US, they’re not the only one. Here’s a quick overview of some of the other couriers that offer tracking numbers:
- FedEx: FedEx offers express, freight, ground, and home delivery services and is one of the most popular couriers for business shipping. They offer tracking services through their online portal and mobile app.
- UPS: UPS is another popular courier for businesses, offering a wide range of services, including express, freight and ground delivery. Like FedEx, they offer tracking services through their online portal and mobile app.
- DHL: DHL is an international courier service that offers global shipping. They provide a number of services, including express, freight, door-to-door, and same-day delivery. They also offer tracking services through their website and mobile app.
- Amazon Logistics: Amazon Logistics is Amazon’s own delivery service. While they don’t offer a full range of services like other couriers, they do provide a reliable delivery system that is fully integrated into the Amazon ecosystem. You can track packages sent via Amazon Logistics on Amazon’s website or mobile app.
These are just a few of the other couriers that offer tracking services.
Depending on where you are shipping your package and what services you need, there may be other options available. It’s important to research all of your options before deciding on the best courier for your needs.
10 Things To Know About USPS Tracking Number
- A USPS tracking number is a unique, 20-digit number assigned to each mail piece that is sent using USPS services.
- You can use a USPS tracking number to track the progress of your mail piece as it moves through the USPS system.
- USPS tracking numbers can be found on the mailing label or receipt for your mail piece.
- You can track your mail piece by entering the tracking number on the USPS website or through the USPS mobile app.
- Some USPS services, such as First-Class Mail, do not include tracking by default, but you can purchase tracking as an added service for an additional fee.
- The tracking information provided by USPS can include the date and time that your mail piece was accepted by USPS, as well as any updates on its progress as it is processed and delivered.
- If your mail piece is being sent internationally, you may be able to track it using the tracking number provided by USPS, but the tracking information may be limited once the mail piece leaves the United States.
- If you are expecting a package and it does not arrive by the expected delivery date, you can use the tracking number to contact USPS customer service for assistance.
- You can also use the tracking number to file a claim with USPS if your mail piece is lost or damaged.
- If you are using USPS to ship a package, it is a good idea to keep the tracking number in a safe place so that you can easily track your package and ensure that it arrives at its destination.
Conclusion
A USPS tracking number is a unique, 20-digit number that is assigned to each mail piece sent using USPS services. You can use this number to track the progress of your mail piece as it moves through the USPS system.
You can find the tracking number on the mailing label or receipt for your mail piece, and you can enter it on the USPS website or through the USPS mobile app to see tracking information.
Some USPS services do not include tracking by default, but you can purchase tracking as an added service for an additional fee. You can use the tracking number to contact USPS customer service for assistance or to file a claim if your mail piece is lost or damaged.
FAQS
Here are some frequently asked questions about USPS Tracking Numbers and how they can be useful to online shoppers in 2023 and beyond.
A USPS tracking number is a unique, 20-digit number that is assigned to each mail piece sent using USPS services. You can use this number to track the progress of your mail piece as it moves through the USPS system.
You can find your USPS tracking number on the mailing label or receipt for your mail piece. You can also get the tracking number from the sender if you are expecting a package.
You can track your USPS mail piece by entering the tracking number on the USPS website or through the USPS mobile app. You will be able to see updates on the progress of your mail piece as it is processed and delivered.
Not all USPS services include tracking by default. Some services, such as First-Class Mail, do not include tracking, but you can purchase tracking as an added service for an additional fee.
The tracking information provided by USPS can include the date and time that your mail piece was accepted by USPS, as well as any updates on its progress as it is processed and delivered. You may also be able to see the expected delivery date for your mail piece.
You may be able to track your mail piece using the tracking number provided by USPS if it is being sent internationally, but the tracking information may be limited once the mail piece leaves the United States.
If your mail piece does not arrive by the expected delivery date, you can use the tracking number to contact USPS customer service for assistance. You can also file a claim with USPS if your mail piece is lost or damaged.
Yes, you can use the USPS tracking number to file a claim for a lost or damaged mail piece. You can contact USPS customer service or visit the USPS website to learn more about the process for filing a claim.
