Have you ever tracked a package online, only to find that the current status has not been updated?
You might assume that your package is lost, when in reality it’s just taking a little longer than expected.
Unfortunately, this happens more often than not. In this post, we’ll explore why USPS tracking is not updating and what you can do about it.
We’ll also give you some tips on how to troubleshoot and solve the most common problems with USPS tracking.
So keep reading to find out more.
Why is USPS tracking not updating?
Usps tracking is often updated whenever a significant event occurs, such as when a package is scanned by a postal worker, when it is moved to a new facility, when it is loaded onto a vehicle, etc.
Now the question is, what’s going on, then, with the USPS package tracking system that doesn’t seem to be updating?
The following are some of the possible reasons why this could be occurring
Possible causes of delayed updates in USPS tracking
Below are the possible reasons why USPS tracking seems not to be updating.
The package has not been scanned or updated:
One possibility is that the package has not been scanned by USPS yet. This can happen if the package was just recently mailed. It can also happen if the package was sent using a shipping method that doesn’t include tracking, or if there was a mix-up at the post office.
Packages are only scanned and updated at certain points in the shipping process, so if your package hasn’t been scanned or updated recently, that doesn’t necessarily mean that something is wrong.
There may be other reasons why your shipment has not yet been scanned even though it has been sent.
Perhaps the barcode is too difficult to read. A barcode may be too faint to read because it can become smudged or damaged if handled excessively.
The barcodes may be entered manually, but if the shipping deadline is too close, the post office may not have time to scan them.
When time is of the essence, the USPS may sometimes forgo scanning parcels due to a lack of employees or a large number of shipments, which might delay updates.
This could be one of the many reasons why the US Postal Service isn’t able to scan your package and update its tracking information.
Misplaced packages:
If your tracking information is not updated, it is possible that your package was misplaced and is currently not in the postal system.
This can happen if your package was delivered to the wrong address or facility, or maybe it was sent to the wrong post office, or otherwise lost in transit.
Packages can end up in the wrong place for a variety of reasons, such as incorrect addresses being inputted, similar-sounding names leading to mix-ups, or human error.
Incorrect or outdated tracking information:
In some cases, the tracking information for a package may be incorrect or outdated. This can happen if the person who entered the tracking information made a mistake, if the package was mislabeled, or if the barcode was scanned incorrectly.
The package is still in transit:
It’s possible that your package is still in transit and the tracking information has not yet been updated.
This can happen for several reasons, such as weather delays, staff shortages, unforeseen circumstances beyond control, or simply because it is taking longer than expected for your package to reach its destination.
The best thing to do is wait patiently and check the tracking information regularly for updates. In most cases, the package will eventually show up, and you’ll be able to see where it is.
If it’s been an unusually long time and you’re still not seeing any updates, you can reach out to USPS for more information.
They may be able to give you a better idea of what is happening with your package and when you can expect it to arrive.
Tracking information unavailable:
In some cases, tracking information may not be available for a package. This can happen if the package was shipped using a method that doesn’t include tracking, such as First-Class Mail, or if the sender didn’t pay for tracking when they sent the package.
Carrier error:
Another possibility is that the carrier made a mistake, like missing a scan or entering the wrong information into the system. This type of error is relatively rare, but it can happen from time to time.
Technical difficulties:
It’s also possible that the tracking information is not updated because of technical difficulties on USPS’s end. This could be due to scheduled maintenance, unexpected outages, or other problems.
Whenever you notice a significant delay in the delivery of your package, it is always best to check the USPS website or social media accounts for any possible announcements about tracking issues.
Customs delay:
If you’re expecting an international shipment, it’s possible that the tracking information is not updating because the package is being held up in customs.
This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as the package containing items that need to be inspected or because of an issue with the documentation.
Wrong tracking number:
It’s also possible that you have the wrong tracking number. This could happen if you miswrote the number down, if the seller gave you the wrong number, or if there was a mix-up at some point along the way.
If you think this might be the case, you can reach out to the sender and ask for the correct number. Once you have it, you should be able to see your package’s progress.
It’s also a good idea to double-check the tracking number before you enter it to make sure that it is correct.
How soon does USPS update its tracking information?
The USPS typically updates your status within 24–48 hours after receiving your package. However, in some cases, it can take longer for the tracking information to show up.
If it has been more than 48 hours, and you still don’t see any tracking information, please contact USPS directly.
But sometimes, depending on the method of shipping and whether or not the sender paid for tracking, you may not receive updates on your package’s location.
In most cases, however, the package will eventually arrive and you’ll be able to see where it is.
Why is my package not moving?
During the holidays, when USPS facilities are often at or near full capacity, tracking updates may be late or not work at all.
If you see that your package is not moving, the first thing you should do is check the tracking information to see if there are any details on why it is not moving.
If the tracking information does not provide any clues, it is also possible that the package is simply taking longer to ship than expected, and it will eventually show up in the tracking information.
In this case, there is no need to worry, as the package will likely arrive safely.
What should I do if my USPS tracking number isn’t being updated?
If your USPS tracking number isn’t updating, there are a few things you can do:
- Check the tracking information to make sure that it’s still in progress. Sometimes updates will take a little longer than expected.
- Make sure that the package was scanned at each stage of the shipping process. If it wasn’t scanned, it won’t show up on the tracking information. One possibility is that your packages have not yet been scanned and entered into the tracking system.
- Contact USPS customer service for more help. They can look into why the tracking information isn’t updating and help you get to the bottom of it.
My packages have arrived, but the USPS tracking page still hasn’t been updated; why?
There could be a few reasons why your USPS tracking page hasn’t been updated even after receiving your package.
If this is the case, the updates will gradually appear over the next few days as the packages are processed.
Another possibility is that the tracking information on the USPS website may not be up to date right away.
This can happen for several reasons, such as technical difficulties or high volume periods. In these cases, it can take a few days for the tracking information to catch up.
So, just give it a few days and it will eventually get updated. If it still hasn’t been updated after a week, then you can contact USPS customer service to find out why.
How frequently does the USPS update tracking information?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) updates its tracking information frequently, sometimes as often as every hour.
However, there are times when the updates are less frequent, so it’s important to be patient when waiting for updated information.
Here are some general guidelines for how often you can expect USPS to update tracking information:
- For packages sent via First-Class Mail, tracking information is typically updated once the package has been delivered.
- For packages sent via Priority Mail and Express Mail, tracking information is typically updated every time the package is scanned by a USPS employee, which can happen several times during transit.
When USPS Tracking is down, what other options do I have for tracking my package?
If you’re trying to track a package from the USPS and the tracking isn’t working, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do to try to get more information about your package.
The first thing you should do is wait a day or two. Sometimes the USPS tracking system doesn’t update immediately, so your package may be just a day or two behind.
If a few days have passed and you’re still not seeing any updates, you might also try one of the other approaches given below.
- Wait until they update the tracking status.
- Get in touch with your local post office.
- If you’re the sender, try calling USPS customer service.
- If you’re the recipient, ask the sender to track the package for you.
Of course, if none of these work, you can always file a complaint with the USPS.
They may be able to give you more information about where your package is and what might be delaying it.
How can I verify that my tracking number is correct?
When you are shipping something via USPS, it is important to make sure that you have the right tracking number.
With this number, you can keep track of your package and make sure it gets there safely.
Here are some tips on how to make sure that you have the right tracking number:
1. Check your receipt: When you ship something via USPS, you will be given a receipt. This receipt will have all of the information about your shipment, including the tracking number.
Make sure to double-check that the tracking number on your receipt is correct before you leave the post office.
2. Check your email: If you shipped your package online, you should have received an email confirmation.
This email will also include the tracking number for your shipment. Again, make sure to double-check that the tracking number is correct before you leave the confirmation page.
3. Check the label: The USPS tracking number will be printed on the shipping label. Make sure to take a look at the label before you seal up the package.
The tracking number should be clearly visible. service
4. Ask a postal worker: If you are unsure about the tracking number for your shipment, you can always ask a postal worker.
They will be able to look up the tracking number for you and make sure that it is correct.
If USPS tracking hasn’t been updated in days, should I be worried?
No, you shouldn’t be worried if USPS tracking hasn’t been updated in about 3 days. But if it takes longer than 3 days, then something is probably wrong.
The USPS is a very reliable shipping service, and it is common for tracking information to not be updated for a few days.
Usually, USPS tracking is updated within 24 to 48 hours after the item has been shipped.
However, there are some cases where tracking information is not updated for a few days.
If you are still concerned, you can contact USPS directly and they will be able to give you more information about your package.
My Item Shows as Delivered, but It Hasn’t Arrived Yet—Why?
When the USPS tracking shows that the item has been delivered but you haven’t gotten it yet, it’s often best to wait at least 24 hours. Most of the time, you’ll get the item.
Most of the time, the poster workers are often very close to you, so they mark it as delivered, knowing that you’ll receive it in a few minutes.
However, sometimes this is a mistake by the USPS staff. They mistakenly mark an item as delivered instead of out for delivery.
Also, it’s always advisable to ask your neighbors or check around your closet just in case your package was actually delivered when you weren’t around.
Ensure to check places like your garage, door corners, or any possible place where the poster worker can keep your item safely.
If you still can not find your item after 24 hours, then you might consider calling USPS customer care for further information.
What is the accuracy rate of USPS tracking?
Keep in mind that USPS tracking will keep you informed at every step of the delivery process.
However, real-time tracking is not available, but you will get updates, such as when your shipment has arrived at a new facility or been loaded onto a vehicle.
In most cases, you’ll have to wait about an hour for the latest information on any given event.
While USPS tracking will tell you where your package is and where it’s going, it won’t let you keep track of its every step in real time.
What Should You Do If Your USPS Tracking Number Isn’t Updating?
If your USPS tracking isn’t updating, it’s often recommended that you wait at least a week before getting worried.
But if after waiting for 7 days, your package still hasn’t arrived, then here are a few steps you can take.
1.Contact customer service via phone at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777). They’ll help to give you more info about the nature of your shipment (within 24 to 48 hours)
2. If you are not comfortable with calling, then you can send them an email via their website. Usually you’ll get a reply within 24 to 48 hours (working days only).
3. Visit a nearby USPS post office and speak with a staff member. This way, they can possibly help you sort things out more quickly.
Note: When calling customer care ensure to keep your tracking number closeby, this will help them identify the exact parcel you are referring to
How Long Before a USPS Package Is Considered Lost?
If you haven’t received updated tracking information after 7 days and have contacted customer service but haven’t heard back after 7 days, it’s likely that your delivery has been lost in transit.
A Missing Mail Search Request may be made here if you’re looking for a misplaced parcel.
Make sure to provide as much information as you can. Include the name of the sender, the name of the recipient, the tracking number, and a detailed description of what’s in the package to help them find it.
This process can take up to 10 days, but it may be the best way to get answers about your misplaced package.
