The United States Postal Service handles over 400 million mail pieces every day. Understanding how USPS tracking works will help you stay informed about your packages and mail.
USPS Tracking Number Formats
USPS uses different tracking number formats depending on the service type:
Domestic Tracking Numbers
- 22 digits (9400...): Standard USPS Tracking
- 22 digits (9205...): Priority Mail
- 22 digits (9407...): Certified Mail
- 22 digits (9270...): Priority Mail Express
- 22 digits (9208...): Registered Mail
- 22 digits (9202...): Signature Confirmation
International Tracking Numbers
- 13 characters (EC...US): Priority Mail Express International
- 13 characters (CP...US): Priority Mail International
- 10 digits (82...): Global Express Guaranteed
Pro Tip
USPS tracking numbers can be entered with or without spaces. Our tracking tool automatically formats them correctly.
Understanding USPS Status Updates
Here's what the most common USPS tracking statuses mean:
Pre-Shipment Statuses
- Label Created: Shipping label has been printed but package not yet received by USPS
- Pre-Shipment Info Sent: Electronic shipping info received by USPS
In Transit Statuses
- Accepted: Package received at USPS facility
- In Transit to Next Facility: Package moving between sorting centers
- Arrived at Hub: Package reached a regional distribution center
- Departed Hub: Package left the distribution center
Delivery Statuses
- Out for Delivery: Package on delivery vehicle in your area
- Delivered: Package has been delivered
- Available for Pickup: Package at Post Office for pickup
USPS Informed Delivery
USPS offers a free service called Informed Delivery that provides:
- Daily email notifications with images of incoming mail
- Package tracking dashboard
- Delivery instructions and preferences
- Email and text notifications for package updates
Common USPS Tracking Issues
"In Transit, Arriving Late"
This status means your package missed its expected delivery date but is still moving through the system. Common causes include weather delays, high volume periods, or transportation issues.
"No Record Found"
If you see this message, the tracking number may not be in the system yet (allow 24 hours after shipping), or there may be an error in the tracking number.
Track Your USPS Package
Enter your USPS tracking number to get real-time status updates.
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