USPS Tracking Not Updating? Here's What It Means and How to Fix It

Why Your USPS Tracking Might Be Stuck — And What You Can Do About It

You shipped your package. You got the USPS tracking number. You clicked the link. And then… nothing.
To ensure you receive accurate tracking updates, always enter the correct number and make sure it is the exact same tracking number provided by USPS.

No movement. No scan updates. No delivery status. Just the dreaded phrase:
“In Transit — Arriving Late” or worse, no update at all for days.

If you’re wondering why your USPS tracking is not updating, you’re not alone. Every day, thousands of senders and recipients get stuck in the same limbo. USPS is one of the most widely used carriers in the United States — and while it’s usually reliable, its tracking system sometimes leaves a lot to be desired.

But before you file a missing mail search request or call your local post office in a panic, take a deep breath. This guide covers everything you need to know — including:

• What each tracking status actually means
• Why your package might be delayed
• How to interpret phrases like “Shipping Label Created” or “Arrival at Unit”
• Why verifying tracking numbers is essential for receiving accurate shipment updates
• When to contact USPS customer service
• And what to do if your package is officially considered lost

You’ll also learn how to avoid these issues in the future with better logistics, cleaner address data, and proactive delivery tracking tools.

Because let’s be honest — packages getting delayed is frustrating. But not knowing what’s going on? That’s worse. Businesses should inform customers proactively about tracking issues and delivery status to reduce uncertainty and improve transparency.

💡 Want to make sure your own outbound mail avoids these issues? LettrLabs’ direct mail automation platform includes real-time tracking, address verification, and analytics built to eliminate surprises and delays.

Why USPS Tracking Doesn’t Update Sometimes

When your USPS tracking info stops moving, your first instinct might be to assume the worst. But in most cases, there’s no need to panic.

USPS tracking not updating doesn’t always mean your package is lost. In fact, it’s often just a delay in the tracking system itself — not the shipment. Updating USPS tracking information may not always happen in real time—USPS typically updates tracking at each scan point within its network, usually within 24-48 hours.

Here are a few common reasons why updates can stall:

• Sometimes the system fails to update tracking due to technical or operational delays, which can affect update tracking and cause concern for both mailers and recipients.

It’s More Common Than You Think

Sometimes, a package moves through multiple USPS facilities without being scanned at every stop. Other times, it’s scanned, but the system doesn’t display the update in real time.

During high-volume seasons like holidays or big sales events, USPS workers may skip scans to speed up delivery workflows. This can result in stalled tracking, where updates are delayed or missing. And if a package is in transit via ground shipping or Parcel Select, it could go unscanned for 24–48 hours.

Even if you see no movement, it’s still in the network — just not reporting its status yet.

Tracking updates are not always instant. Delays happen, and scanning isn’t guaranteed at every leg of the route. Server outages can also temporarily disrupt tracking updates, causing delays or errors in the information you see.

Weekends, Holidays, and Non-Business Days

Here’s another factor: Sundays and holidays can cause tracking silence. While USPS does perform limited scanning on weekends, delivery status and tracking scans might not show until the next business day.

On federal holidays, USPS pauses both delivery and scanning completely. That means even if your package is still moving internally, you won’t see any update until operations resume.

So if your tracking hasn’t updated and it’s a Sunday or a long weekend, give it some extra time before assuming something went wrong.

💡 Want to know more about how USPS operates on weekends? Read our deep dive into USPS Sunday delivery and what that means for your packages.

Understanding Your USPS Tracking Status

If you're staring at a vague update and wondering what it actually means, you're not alone. USPS tracking statuses can be confusing, especially when they don’t seem to reflect real-time progress.

Let’s break down some of the most common tracking messages and what they signal about your package’s journey.

What Each USPS Tracking Update Actually Means

Here’s a quick overview of common updates you might see in your USPS tracking information:

• “Label Created, Not Yet in System” — The sender purchased a USPS shipping label, but the package hasn’t been dropped off or scanned yet.
• “USPS Awaiting Item” — The label exists, but the package hasn’t entered the USPS system.
• “In Transit to Next Facility” — Your item is moving, but hasn’t been scanned since the last facility.
• “Out for Delivery” — It’s on the truck and should arrive today.
• “Delivered” — The package has reached its destination (but be sure to check the delivery location, in case it was left at a secure location like a porch or mailroom).
• “Delivery Attempted” — USPS tried to deliver but couldn’t. A delivery attempt may occur if access is blocked, a signature is required, or no one is available to receive the package. After a delivery attempt, check your tracking details for instructions—USPS may try again, leave a notice, or require you to pick up the item at your local post office.

Reviewing your tracking details can help clarify the current status and next steps for your package.

The trick is knowing which messages are part of the normal process—and which might mean something’s gone wrong.

Delivery Status: What to Look For

When you use USPS tracking, you’ll see a series of delivery status updates as your package moves through the system. Common statuses include “Pre-Shipment” (when the label is created but the package hasn’t been received by USPS yet), “In-Transit” (as it travels between facilities), “Out for Delivery” (when it’s on the way to its final stop), and “Delivered” (when it’s reached its destination). Each status gives you insight into where your package is and what’s happening next. By checking the USPS tracking system, you can stay up to date on any changes to your package’s journey and know exactly when to expect it at your door.

“In Transit” for Days: Should You Worry?

If your package has been “In Transit” for several days with no new scan, don’t panic just yet.

It’s common for USPS shipment tracking to miss an update or two, especially if the item is traveling long distances or going through automated sorting facilities. You may not see movement for 24–72 hours, even though your package is en route. Tracking updates can help you estimate when your mail will arrive and when your package arrives, so keep an eye on the status for the latest information.

Also note: ground shipments and Media Mail often receive fewer scans than Priority Mail. If you’re not using a premium service, sparse updates are normal.

That said, if the tracking number hasn’t updated in over five business days, you should consider taking action. If you are concerned about when your mail will arrive, you can contact customer service for more information. We’ll cover that in a moment.

What “Arrival at Unit” Actually Means

This one trips up a lot of people.

“Arrival at Unit” means your package has reached the local post office or distribution center that services the recipient’s address. It’s usually the last stop before final delivery.

Sometimes, USPS will scan the package again once it’s out for delivery, but not always. So if your item shows this status but hasn’t moved for a day or two, don’t stress—it may still arrive on time.

“Shipping Label Created” But No Movement?

This is a classic one. The sender bought the shipping label, but hasn’t physically handed off the package to USPS.

Until the package is scanned at a USPS facility, your tracking will remain stuck at “Label Created” or “USPS Awaiting Item.”

If you're the sender, double-check that you dropped it off at the post office or scheduled a pickup. If you're the recipient, reach out to the business or person who shipped it—they may not have sent it out yet.

💡 Want to avoid confusing delivery statuses with your own mail campaigns? LettrLabs gives you access to real-time tracking and analytics tools so you always know where your cards or mailers are—down to the last scan.

Delivery Class Matters: Why Tracking Is Better with Priority Mail

Not all USPS services are created equal — and that becomes obvious when you’re relying on tracking updates. The mail class you choose can drastically affect how often your package gets scanned, how detailed those scans are, and how quickly it moves through the USPS system. Regular mail, such as standard First-Class or other non-priority services, typically receives less frequent tracking updates compared to premium shipping options.

Let’s break down what to expect based on the type of mail you’re sending.

Priority Mail vs. First-Class vs. Media Mail

If you want consistent scans and better delivery estimates, go with Priority Mail or Priority Mail Express. These services include end-to-end tracking information, faster delivery windows, and higher priority in the logistics chain.

In contrast:

• First-Class Mail often includes tracking, but it's not always scanned at every checkpoint.
• Media Mail and Parcel Select Ground are low-priority services. They’re slower, cheaper, and sometimes go unscanned for days — especially in rural or high-volume areas.

So if your USPS tracking number isn’t showing progress and you used Media Mail, it may just be moving quietly in the background.

Registered Mail and Tracking Guarantees

Registered Mail is designed for high-value items. It offers the most secure handling and gets scanned at every transfer point, often with physical logbooks involved.

However, it’s not necessarily faster — just safer. If your item hasn’t moved, but you used Registered Mail, you’ll usually get more visibility than with standard services.

And here’s the kicker: the only service eligible for a refund due to tracking delays is Priority Mail Express. If you shipped with another service, USPS typically won’t refund you for a stalled scan.

💡 If you're sending sensitive, high-value, or high-ticket materials, LettrLabs helps you pair the right format with the right class of mail. Explore handwritten mailers, printed letters, and trifold brochures — all trackable and optimized for delivery performance.

Top Reasons for USPS Tracking Not Updating

When you see the same tracking update for days, it’s natural to feel frustrated or confused. But there are several common — and often harmless — reasons why your USPS tracking might stall temporarily.

Here are the top culprits that can cause a delay in your tracking status or make it seem like your package has vanished.

Weather and Natural Delays

Bad weather can slow down more than just planes and highways. It can impact postal facility operations, reroute deliveries, and delay tracking scans at regional or local post offices.

Snowstorms, hurricanes, flooding — any of these can cause a disruption in the USPS network without generating a new tracking update. Your package might be sitting at a distribution center, safe but unmoving, until conditions improve.

Holiday Volume and Missed Scans

During the holiday rush or major online sales events, postal workers are moving packages as fast as possible. That means some shipments may skip non-essential scans to keep things flowing.

It doesn’t mean your package is lost — it just hasn’t been scanned at every stop.

Tracking not updating during peak season is one of the most common complaints, and unfortunately, it’s also one of the hardest to avoid.

Incorrect or Incomplete Address

If your shipping label includes a wrong address, insufficient address, or formatting errors, your item might hit a dead end inside a USPS facility.

In some cases, it gets returned. In others, it sits in limbo while USPS tries to determine the correct address or route.

To avoid this, always double-check the recipient’s information, especially if you’re mailing to a business, apartment, or newly developed area.

Technical Glitches or Label Errors

Sometimes the problem isn’t physical — it’s digital.

If the shipping label was printed with a corrupted barcode, or if the tracking number wasn’t properly uploaded into the USPS tracking system, it might never display updates correctly.

This is especially common with third-party sellers or systems that integrate USPS through outdated tools. And if someone changes the tracking label or regenerates a new one after drop-off, it may result in split tracking records or a completely incorrect tracking number.

If you suspect a technical issue is preventing your tracking updates from appearing, you can contact USPS technical support for direct assistance.

💡 Want to reduce human error in your own mail campaigns? LettrLabs helps ensure your address data is clean and delivery-ready. Learn how we handle verification, deduplication, and formatting on our direct mail list building guide.

How to Troubleshoot Your USPS Tracking Issue

If your USPS tracking not updating situation has gone from annoying to alarming, don’t worry — there are a few smart steps you can take before filing a missing mail search request or calling up your local post office.

Let’s walk through the exact troubleshooting process.

Check Your Tracking Number (Carefully)

This might sound basic, but you'd be surprised how often a typo is to blame. Always verify that you're using the correct tracking number, especially if:

• You copied it manually from a receipt or email
• You received multiple tracking links for different packages
• You were issued a replacement or updated label

An incorrect tracking number — or even a character off — will either show “not found” or pull up someone else's package.

Also double-check where you got the number: your USPS shipping receipt, email confirmation, or peel-off tracking label on the box.

Try Informed Delivery for Extra Info

USPS offers a free tool called Informed Delivery, which provides package previews and tracking updates via email. Sometimes, it’ll show info that hasn’t hit the public tracking system yet.

Sign in or create an account to see:

• Items arriving soon
• Delivery alerts
• Historical scans on older packages

It’s especially useful if you’re waiting on several items or managing mail for a business.

Wait a Bit — Updates May Be Coming

If your tracking status hasn’t changed in 24–48 hours, that’s still within normal range — especially for First-Class Mail, Media Mail, or non-urgent services.

USPS does not guarantee scans at every checkpoint, and a missed scan doesn't mean your package isn’t moving. Often, the status will “catch up” once it reaches the next USPS facility.

That said, if it’s been more than five business days without an update, you’re well within reason to escalate it (we’ll cover that in the next section).

💡 LettrLabs helps businesses automate direct mail with built-in address verification and live tracking dashboards — no more guessing. Learn how it works on our automation platform page.

When to Take Action: Missing Mail or Lost Package

If it’s been several days and your tracking number still shows no movement — or worse, it looks like your item has vanished — it’s time to dig deeper.

Here’s what to do if your USPS package may be missing or lost.

When to Worry

USPS recommends waiting at least 5 business days before assuming a package is lost, especially for non-priority mail.

But there are exceptions:

• Your Priority Mail Express package missed its delivery date
• The item shows “Delivered” but you haven’t received it
• It’s been “In Transit” for more than a week with no scans

These are all legitimate reasons to escalate.

Also, check with neighbors or building staff. Some deliveries marked “Delivered” may be left in a secure location or handed off to an authorized recipient.

How to File a Missing Mail Search Request

If your item still hasn't arrived after several days — and your USPS tracking is stuck or ambiguous — you can submit a Missing Mail Search Request through the USPS website.

You’ll need:

• The correct tracking number
• Date of mailing
• Recipient and sender addresses
• A detailed description of the item

Once submitted, USPS begins searching across local post offices and postal facilities to locate the package.

This process can take a few days, but if found, USPS will reroute the item to its final destination.

Contact USPS Customer Service the Right Way

If you don’t want to go through the online form — or need help faster — you can contact USPS customer service directly.

Here’s how:

• Call 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777)
• Ask for a USPS representative
• Be ready to provide your tracking number, mailing date, and full address

If your package was insured or sent via Registered Mail, you may also qualify to file a claim — especially if the tracking status hasn’t updated and the delivery date has passed.

💡 LettrLabs' tracking tools can reduce support tickets and customer complaints. With real-time scan data for every campaign, your team can stop relying on USPS support queues. Learn more on our tracking + analytics tools page.

Special Cases You Should Know

Even when you’re doing everything right, some USPS tracking issues fall into weird, unexpected categories. These exceptions can confuse even experienced shippers — and often don’t come with clear instructions.

Let’s go over a few situations that might cause your tracking status to behave strangely. New technologies like package verification using blockchain and real time GPS tracking are being explored to improve transparency and accuracy in package tracking.

USPS Shipping Label Changed After Drop-Off

If someone reprints or modifies the shipping label after the package has already been dropped off at a post office or USPS facility, the original tracking number may stop updating.

A new label = a new number.

But here’s the problem: some third-party platforms may not update this automatically, leaving customers tracking the wrong label — and seeing no updates because the incorrect tracking number is now obsolete.

This is a rare but real issue for ecommerce sellers or operations teams using multiple fulfillment tools.

Packages Handed Off to Third Parties

Occasionally, USPS may hand off your package to another carrier — especially for last-mile delivery in rural or congested areas. In these cases, the delivery location might be handled by a non-USPS agent.

That can delay or interrupt tracking scans and make it look like the package stalled, even though it’s still in motion.

Always look for phrases like:

• “Tendered to Agent for Final Delivery”
• “Delivered by Agent”

These are signs that USPS has handed the package off — and that your USPS tracking updates may now be delayed.

International Shipments Have Unique Delays

If you're sending a package abroad, tracking becomes more complex. Once a shipment leaves the U.S., it exits the USPS network and enters that country’s postal system.

That means:

• Tracking may pause until it's scanned by the destination country's facility
• Not all international partners support end-to-end scans
• Customs delays won’t always trigger a new tracking event

So if you’re mailing globally and your USPS tracking system shows “In Transit” or “Departed USPS Facility,” it might be weeks before the next update.

💡 If your business sends cross-border or high-value mail, LettrLabs can help you format addresses correctly, track reliably, and avoid costly rerouting. See how our integration partners support your full logistics stack.

What USPS Can and Can’t Refund

When your USPS tracking hasn’t updated and your package is late — especially if it's a business-critical shipment — it’s fair to ask: Can I get a refund?

The answer? It depends on the mail class and the reason for the delay.

Priority Mail Express Refunds

Priority Mail Express is the only USPS service that comes with a money-back guarantee. If USPS misses the promised delivery date and the delay wasn’t due to weather, a natural disaster, or incorrect addressing, you can request a full refund.

Make sure to:

• File the request within 30 days of the mailing date
• Have proof of purchase (your USPS shipping receipt)
• Show that the delay was USPS’s fault, not due to exceptions like a wrong address

This is one reason Priority Mail Express is often the go-to for time-sensitive documents or high-value orders.

No Refunds for First-Class or Media Mail

Frustrating but true: First-Class Mail, Media Mail, and Parcel Select don’t come with delivery guarantees. So even if your tracking status hasn’t updated in a week, USPS is not obligated to refund you.

Even Priority Mail — while faster and more reliable — does not include a delivery guarantee. Refunds are only granted when packages sent via Priority Mail Express are late and the USPS was at fault.

If your package was insured, you may still be able to file a lost package claim, but that’s separate from a refund for tracking failures. To submit an insurance claim for a lost or missing package, you’ll need to provide documentation such as proof of value and mailing receipt, and you can file the insurance claim online through the USPS website.

💡 Sending mail that has to arrive on time? LettrLabs can help you select the right format and class — including trackable, high-priority options. Read more about direct mail costs and service tiers to make the best choice for your next campaign.

USPS Overnight Delivery Still Not Delivered?

You paid for overnight shipping. The tracking number says it should’ve arrived yesterday. But your customer’s inbox says: “Where’s my package?”

If you’re dealing with Priority Mail Express delays — the only USPS service considered “overnight” — here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Overnight Delivery Cost USPS

The overnight delivery cost USPS charges depends on weight, distance, and packaging type, but it typically ranges between $26 and $75. For that price, you’re promised:

• Overnight or 1–2 day delivery (depending on zone)
• A money-back guarantee if USPS misses the deadline
• Real-time tracking updates and delivery status

But if USPS doesn’t scan the final leg — or there’s a delay at a local post office — the tracking might make it seem like your package is stuck.

The good news? You’re eligible for a refund if USPS fails to meet the guaranteed delivery date, as long as:

• The address was correct
• The package wasn’t delayed by weather or natural disaster
• The item didn’t require a signature that couldn’t be obtained

What to Do If You Paid for Overnight and Didn’t Get It

Here’s your action plan:

1. Confirm the delivery status on the USPS tracking system
2. Look for notes like “Delivery Attempted” or “Held at Post Office”
3. If it’s past the committed delivery date, file a refund claim online or at your local post office

Be sure to include your full mailing info, tracking number, and payment receipt. Refunds are usually issued within 3–5 business days.

Also, if this is a recurring issue for your business, consider auditing how your mail is packed, labeled, and handed off to USPS — many delays stem from label errors or scanning issues at origin.

💡 If overnight delivery is critical to your operations, LettrLabs can help you plan around USPS limitations. From choosing the right mailer to tracking last-mile scans, we’ve got you covered. Start by exploring our printed letter mailers — built for high-priority delivery and optimized for automation.

USPS Tracking Still Not Working? Try This

You’ve waited days. You’ve refreshed the USPS tracking page a hundred times. You’ve confirmed the tracking number is correct. Still nothing?

Here’s what to try next — before assuming your package is gone for good.

Visit Your Local Post Office

Seriously. If your tracking is frozen and you suspect the package is nearby, your best move might be a good old-fashioned trip to the local post office.

Bring:

• The correct tracking number
• A copy of your receipt or order confirmation
• A photo ID (if you’re the recipient)

Ask them to look up the actual status of the item in their internal system — sometimes it shows more than the public-facing site. They may even locate the package onsite, especially if it’s marked as “Arrival at Unit” or “Delivery Attempted.”

Bonus: if your mail was incorrectly marked as “Delivered,” the postal workers may be able to retrace the route and fix the issue quickly.

Use the USPS Website Tools

The USPS website offers more than just basic tracking. You can:

• Sign up for Informed Delivery to get mail previews
• File a Missing Mail Search Request
• Start a refund or claim for late Priority Mail Express

If you’ve already done this, keep an eye on your email — USPS will send status updates as they investigate.

And if you're a business, you can even integrate USPS into your internal tools using their APIs — though it’s not for the faint of heart.

Request Help Through LettrLabs (for Business Mailers)

If you’re a LettrLabs user and your outbound campaign hasn’t updated in our dashboard, it’s likely not a USPS error — it could be:

• A label not scanned on entry
• A suppressed update due to delivery filters
• A genuine package lost case

Our support team can help you trace the mailing process from label creation to the last known delivery location using our internal logs and USPS matchback tools.

💡 Avoid tracking headaches by mailing with LettrLabs. Our platform uses verified addresses, automated scans, and integrated reporting tools to give you peace of mind. See what you can do with our mail tracking dashboard.

Let’s Wrap This Up: What to Know About USPS Tracking Issues

When you see “USPS tracking not updating” day after day, it’s easy to assume the worst. But here’s the truth: most delayed packages still arrive.

Inconsistent tracking updates, missed scans, and vague statuses are frustrating — but they’re part of how the USPS system works, especially during busy seasons or with lower-tier services like Media Mail and First-Class.

What really matters is knowing when to wait… and when to take action.

Let’s recap:

• Don’t panic if your tracking number hasn’t moved in 24–72 hours.
• If it’s been 5+ business days, it’s okay to contact your local post office or submit a missing mail search request.
• If you used Priority Mail Express and it missed its delivery date, request a refund.
• Be extra cautious with shipping labels and addresses — many issues come down to simple human error.

And most importantly: use tools and partners that give you visibility. That’s where LettrLabs comes in.

From automated delivery tracking to verified mailing lists and campaign reporting, we help businesses eliminate the guesswork. Whether you're mailing 100 handwritten postcards or 10,000 printed letters, you can monitor every scan — and keep your customers informed without the support tickets.

💡 Want to take the guesswork out of USPS delivery? Try LettrLabs. Get real-time scan data, verified addresses, and campaign-level performance insights built for modern direct mail. Book a demo today or explore our handwritten mail formats to get started.