Track Certified Mail

USPS tracking is much different than most other shipping and tracking software.  Primarily because the tracking information doesn't actually show up until it the item is delivered. USPS tracking should really be called delivery confirmation.  It is not as robust as UPS or FedEx systems but the service is improving slowly.

Using the issued USPS tracking number you can manually track your package or letter on USPS.com web site for up to 90 days after mailing. Information will show as pending or delivered.  However, when USPS scans an item 'Delivered' that does not mean it was delivered to your intended delivery address.  Unlike other carriers, USPS scans an item 'Delivered' if the item was really 'returned to sender' to close out the record.  Next time you hear statistics about delivery - keep this in mind.   

USPS tracking numbers consist of only numbers such as 01996569533697.  If you mistakenly input a FEDEX tracking number into USPS it smart enough to spit out an error that you put in an invalid USPS tracking number. If USPS tracking is unable to confirm delivery of a package, USPS will refund the delivery confirmation or special service fee.

All packages are first scanned by USPS personnel. USPS only provides tracking service after labels are printed or shipped from a supplier.  In general most customers report the USPS tracking system needs improvement. I have used the USPS's tracking numbers to track my package on-line but there is no in-transit information on my package like there is from UPS or FedEx. 

For USPS Priority Mail and USPS Certified Mail, the USPS tracking function only provides information on the delivery date and delivery status.  If you use Express Mail you can receive a confirmation by email with your USPS tracking number, plus updated delivery information. Remember USPS does not scan their labels at every stop like other common carriers. The USPS tracking service isn't good for much more than telling whether the package entered the mail stream and whether it has been delivered.  It is not uncommon for packages to not show an origin scan and only the confirmation of delivery. The good news is that there is no extra fee for Delivery Confirmation.

If you send the USPS Money Order it is suggested you obtain a tracking confirmation. While en route scans may be provided in the future they are not a feature of Delivery Confirmation service today.

Delivery confirmation is free for Priority Mail and Certified Mail. If you use Express Mail you will receive a confirmation email with a USPS tracking number. Your postage service includes the Delivery Confirmation and Tracking service fees. Additionally USPS sells Signature Confirmation services as well.

In summary, USPS tracking is improving slowly. USPS tracking is not available for military APO/FPO deliveries. If USPS tracking is unable to confirm delivery of a package the cost of the Special Service can be refund.  USPS tracking doesn't actually show up until it is delivered. The USPS system is primarily is used to verify that something is sent or been delivered.