How to Track Packages with USPS & UPS in 2025
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Waiting for a package can be both exciting and stressful — especially when you’re not sure where it is. Luckily, tracking shipments with USPS (United States Postal Service) and UPS (United Parcel Service) in 2025 is easier than ever.
Both carriers provide real-time updates, online dashboards, and mobile apps that let you follow every movement of your parcel from the warehouse to your doorstep.
This guide explains, step-by-step, how to track, understand status updates, solve delivery issues, and make sure your packages always reach you safely.
How Package Tracking Works
Every trackable package has a unique barcode. Each time the parcel passes through a postal facility or sorting hub, that barcode is scanned. These scans create a digital trail you can access online — showing where your item has been and when it’s expected to arrive.
Tracking numbers connect to those scans inside the carrier’s logistics system. Packages that include tracking service (like USPS Priority Mail or any UPS shipment) generate automatic updates; non-trackable mail such as simple letters does not.
Where to Find Your Tracking Number
Before you can check a shipment’s status, you’ll need its tracking number. You can usually find it in:
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The email or text confirmation from the retailer or shipper.
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The receipt from the post office or UPS store.
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Your online shopping account (Amazon, eBay, Etsy, etc.).
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A notification message from USPS or UPS if you signed up for updates.
Keep the number handy — it’s your key to following every movement of your delivery.
USPS Tracking Number Formats
USPS numbers are usually 20–22 digits, often starting with “9.” International packages have a 13-character code (e.g., EA123456789US). These indicate service type:
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Priority Mail: begins with “94” or “92.”
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Certified Mail: begins with “70.”
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International Mail: ends with the country code “US.”
UPS Tracking Number Formats
UPS tracking numbers typically begin with “1Z” followed by 16 digits (for example, 1Z999AA10123456784). Other formats may appear on UPS SurePost or Mail Innovations shipments. The structure helps identify the shipper, service level, and destination.
How to Track a UPS Package — Step by Step
UPS provides one of the most detailed tracking systems in the world:
1-Go to UPS.com/track.
2-Type or paste your tracking number.
3-Review the timeline, which includes Origin Scan, Departure Scan, and Delivered events.
4-Create a UPS My Choice account for delivery alerts, rerouting, or holding packages at an access point.
5-Use the UPS Mobile App to scan barcodes and get driver ETA updates with photos upon delivery.
With My Choice, you can even reschedule or redirect a shipment to a pickup locker for extra security.
How to Find a Lost or Stolen Package
If your parcel is missing:
✅Check around your property and with neighbors.
✅Review security cameras or doorbell footage.
✅Contact the carrier and file a Missing Mail request (USPS) or Lost Package Claim (UPS).
✅Have proof of shipment, item value, and address ready.
✅Reach out to the retailer for refund or replacement — many have protection programs for undelivered orders.
Filing promptly improves your chances of recovery or reimbursement.
International Shipments & Customs Tracking
International packages move through multiple postal systems. USPS hands them off to the destination country’s postal service, while UPS manages customs directly.
Expect fewer scans while parcels are in customs. Use both your US tracking number and any foreign tracking code once the package enters the destination network. Delays at customs are common, especially around holidays.
Tracking Tools, Apps & Extensions
You can monitor shipments using:
-Official apps: USPS Mobile and UPS Mobile (real-time push alerts).
-Aggregator apps: AfterShip, 17Track, ParcelTrack — useful if you receive from multiple stores.
-Browser extensions: Add-ons that detect tracking numbers automatically in emails.
Stick to trusted tools to protect your privacy and avoid phishing scams pretending to offer tracking updates.
Tips to Avoid Delivery Problems
Following a few best practices can save you time and stress:
💡Always double-check the delivery address before checkout.
💡Request signature confirmation for expensive items.
💡Use delivery lockers or access points if you’re not home often.
💡Keep the tracking number until after delivery.
💡Enable email or SMS notifications for real-time updates.
💡Insure valuable items or choose services with coverage.
These habits reduce the risk of missed deliveries or lost packages.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why does tracking say “Delivered” but I didn’t receive it?
Check neighbors and around your property; contact USPS or UPS to start an investigation.
Can I change the delivery address after shipment?
Yes. UPS allows address changes through My Choice; USPS offers Package Intercept for certain services.
How long does UPS hold packages?
Typically 5 business days at an Access Point or UPS Store before returning to sender.
What is USPS Informed Delivery?
A free USPS service that emails you previews of incoming mail and package tracking updates.
What if my tracking number isn’t working?
Wait a few hours; new tracking numbers may take time to activate after label creation.
Conclusion
Tracking your packages with USPS and UPS in 2025 is simple once you know where to look and what each status means. Keep your tracking numbers safe, use official carrier apps, and act quickly if you notice delays or exceptions.
