USPS Tracking Plus: Enhanced Package Tracking and Benefits

Discover the advantages of USPS Tracking Plus, an optional service offering extended tracking history, detailed updates, and additional benefits for your shipments. Learn how to use Tracking Plus effectively and explore common tracking statuses and solutions to delivery issues.

Most domestic USPS services provide door-to-door tracking of packages that you can access for up to 120 days. However, what if you want to track the package for longer? That is precisely where USPS premium tracking comes into the picture. It is ideal for customers willing to track packages for more extended periods than usual.

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In this blog post, you will explore everything about USPS tracking plus.Β 

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What is USPS Tracking Plus, and How Does It Work?

USPS Tracking Plus is an optional service that offers additional features and services for an added fee. It includes the ability to track packages on a map, schedule package pickups, and receive text or email notifications about the status of your parcel.

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USPS Tracking Plus works by providing you with a shipment tracking number that you can use to track your package online. You can also use the tracking number to track your parcel on the USPS website or through their mobile app.

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Related: UPS Ground Vs. USPS Ground: Shipping Speeds, Prices & More

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How To Track A Package Using USPS Tracking Plus

To track a package using USPS Tracking Plus, you will need to have your package's tracking number. This number can be found on the receipt you gave when you purchased the box, or it may have been emailed to you or sent in a text message.

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Once you have the tracking number, go to the USPS website and click on "Track a Package." Enter the tracking number and hit "Track." You should then be able to see information about your package, including where it is in transit and when it is expected to be delivered. This information will also be displayed if there are any delays or issues with delivery.

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Related: USPS Lost My Package: What Do I Do?

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Benefits of Using USPS Tracking Plus

There are several benefits of USPS tracking plus. Especially law offices, small businesses, pharmaceutical providers, financial institutions, and eCommerce businesses can significantly benefit from the USPS tracking plus.Β 

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The USPS Tracking Plus service offers several benefits, including:

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- A detailed tracking history that allows you to track the package every step of the way: from when it enters the USPS network to when it is delivered to your door

- Automatic email and text updates that keep you informed about the status of your package

- The ability to track multiple packages at once

- A free 30-day trial so that you can try out the service before committing to a subscription

- Insurance that covers up to $100 in damages or loss

- Package consolidation so you can combine multiple packages into one shipment and save on shipping costs

- Extended USPS tracking shipping can provide evidence of delivery to resolve claims or disputes with USPS effectively.

- Provides you with official data accepted by financial and legal sources.

- It can serve as critical evidence of delivery and mailing for court and other legal proceedings.Β 

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Related:Β What Do the USPS Tracking Status Updates Mean?

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Tips for Using USPS Tracking Plus Correctly

Here are some practical tips that can help you in using USPS plus in the right way. Let's take a look!

- Make sure the package is sealed correctly and has the correct label affixed before handing it over to the USPS

- When entering tracking information into the system, be precise and use only numbers and letters (no symbols)

- Check the tracking history regularly so that you can spot any potential delays in delivery time

- Get information about the products that are eligible for USPS premium tracks.

- Understand the complete process of how the USPS tracking plus functions.

- Enter the correct USPS tracking number.

- Understand the fees associated with different time durations.Β 

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Related:Β Amazon Carrier Facility Updates: Know What They Mean!

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FAQs about USPS Tracking Plus

Do all packages have USPS premium tracking?

The answer is a 'no.' All packages come with the standard USPS tracking. You can only purchase the USPS premium tracks if you want to extend the tracking period.

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Where to access USPS tracking?

If you are wondering where my package is USPS tracking, you can find it on the official website. From the USPS tracking portal, you can purchase the USPS premium tracks.

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When can the USPS tracking plus be purchased?

You can purchase USPS tracking plus right from the very first day when the tracking history of your package is available on the official portal.Β 

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What steps can be taken if the USPS tracking delivery status isn't updating for a package?

If you find that the USPS tracking delivery status for your package isn't updating, there are several steps you can take to address the issue. Initially, it is recommended to wait for a few days to see if there are any automatic updates by the USPS system regarding your tracking number. If there are still no updates after this waiting period, you can consider initiating a missing mail search with the USPS.

By filing a missing mail search request, you may prompt the USPS to investigate the whereabouts of your package within their network. This action can often result in updated tracking information or help in locating your package if it has been stalled in transit.

In cases where a missing mail search does not yield any significant updates, an alternative step you can take is to file an insurance claim directly with the USPS for the declared value of your package. If your package had USPS insurance included in the shipping label, you may be eligible to claim the value of the lost or delayed item through this process. This can provide a way to recover the losses incurred due to the tracking issues and potential non-delivery of your package.

In what situations would a package be marked for "Return to Sender" by USPS?

A package may be marked for "Return to Sender" by USPS in various situations. Some common reasons include:- No such number: When a part of the address is missing or invalid, such as an incorrect suite number or a typo in the street address.- Insufficient address: If the provided address lacks necessary information for successful delivery.- Moved, left no address: When the recipient has moved without setting up a forwarding address.- Forward expired: The recipient's request to forward mail or packages to a new address has expired.- Addressee unknown: When the recipient at the provided address is unknown.- Vacant: If the delivery point is unoccupied or empty.- Unclaimed/Unspecified: USPS may return the package to the sender for an unspecified reason, often occurring when the intended recipient is deceased.

What are some examples of "Alert" statuses that may be encountered during USPS delivery?

During USPS delivery, you may come across various "Alert" statuses that provide information about the package's delivery status. Some examples of these statuses include:1. Awaiting delivery scan: This status indicates that the expected delivery event has not occurred within a specific timeframe after the package was marked as "Out for Delivery."2. Refused: If the recipient refused to accept the package during a delivery attempt, this status is generated.3. Unable to deliver - problem with address: In cases where there is an issue with the address provided, USPS may be unable to deliver the package.4. Forwarded: This status is used when USPS redirects the package to a new address provided by the recipient.5. Dead mail/sent to recovery mail: When USPS encounters challenges delivering, forwarding, or returning the package, it is sent to the Mail Recovery Center in Atlanta, Georgia.

What are the different "Accepted" statuses that can be seen in USPS tracking updates?

Here is the detailed explanation of the different "Accepted" statuses that may appear in USPS tracking updates:

1. **Accepted at destination**: This status indicates that the item has reached the destination USPS processing facility or post office. It suggests that the package has physically arrived at the intended location ready for further processing and delivery.

2. **Origin acceptance**: When you see this status, it means that USPS has accepted the package at the sorting facility specific to the zip code from which the item is being shipped. This step typically occurs at the initial point of acceptance before the package begins its journey through the USPS network.

3. **Accepted at USPS facility**: This status signifies that USPS has officially acknowledged receipt of the package and has incorporated it into their system at the USPS facility corresponding to the designated zip code. This stage confirms that the package has been received by USPS for processing and handling.

4. **USPS in possession of Item**: This status indicates that USPS has taken possession of the package as part of a pickup that was either scheduled by the shipper or conducted through regular USPS collection processes. It shows that the item is now under the direct care and responsibility of USPS for further transit and delivery.

These various "Accepted" statuses offer insights into the specific stages of USPS processing and handling that a package undergoes from its origin to its destination, providing both shippers and recipients with valuable updates on the progress of their shipments.

Conclusion

USPS Tracking Plus is a comprehensive service that can benefit your online shopping experience in several ways. By providing detailed tracking information and notifications, Plus can help you stay on top of your shipments and avoid surprises. In addition, the insurance coverage offered by Plus can give you peace of mind when ordering high-value items. If you're looking for an all-inclusive shipping solution, check out USPS Tracking Plus.

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Need help fulfilling orders? Get in touch with Simpl, and let us take care of the shipping for you. We offer competitive rates and excellent customer service - so you can focus on what you do best: selling your products!

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Recommended: USPS Didn't Pick Up My Package- What Should I Do?

Calculating Your Package's Cubic Tier

For Boxes and Rigid Packages:
  1. Measure the outer dimensions (length, width, height) in inches
  2. Round each measurement down to the nearest quarter inch
  3. Multiply length x width x height
  4. Divide the result by 1728 (cubic inches in a cubic foot)
  5. The result is your package's cubic feet measurement

Example: For a box measuring 12.3" x 9.5" x 3":

  1. Round down to 12.25" x 9.5" x 3"
  2. 12.25 x 9.5 x 3 = 349.125
  3. 349.125 / 1728 = 0.202 cubic feet
  4. This package falls into the 0.3 cubic feet pricing tier

Note: Maximum size for any single dimension is 18 inches

For Envelopes and Soft Packs:
  1. Measure the length and width of the empty envelope
  2. Round down to the nearest quarter inch
  3. Add the length and width together
  4. Use the total to determine the pricing tier:
    • Tier 0.1: Up to 21"
    • Tier 0.2: 21.01" to 27"
    • Tier 0.3: 27.01" to 31"
    • Tier 0.4: 31.01" to 34"
    • Tier 0.5: 34.01" to 36"

Restrictions

  • Tubes and rolls are not eligible for Cubic pricing
  • Maximum combined length and girth is 84 inches

Benefits of Using Priority Mail Cubic

  1. Cost savings: Cheaper than weight-based pricing for small, heavy items
  2. Predictable pricing: Easy to calculate shipping costs based on box dimensions
  3. Fast delivery: 1-3 business day delivery to any US address, including PO boxes
  4. Free tracking: Monitor shipments at no extra cost
  5. Included insurance: $100 of coverage with every shipment
  6. No surcharges: Residential and fuel surcharges included in the price

Tips for Maximizing Savings

  1. Optimize packaging: Use the smallest box possible that safely fits your items
  2. Consider breaking up large orders: Sometimes shipping in multiple smaller boxes can be cheaper
  3. Use cubic feet calculators: Online tools can help quickly determine your package's tier
  4. Compare rates: Always compare Cubic rates with other shipping methods
  5. Use Commercial Pricing: Accessing Commercial Pricing rates can lead to even more savings

2024 USPS Priority Mail Cubic Rates

Accessing Priority Mail Cubic Rates

Priority Mail Cubic isn't available at regular Post Office counters. However, many online shipping platforms and 3PL providers offer access to these rates. By partnering with a fulfillment provider, you can easily access these discounted rates and streamline your shipping process. For small-scale sellers not yet ready for a 3PL, Pirate Ship offers free access to USPS Priority Mail Cubic rates with no monthly fees or minimums.

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