Is your USPS package out for delivery but not getting delivered? Here's what you can do to get your package. Read on to find the solution.
What does Out for Delivery mean?
If your package is marked as Out for Delivery, it means that it is on its way to the delivery address. The package may be carried in a USPS vehicle or in the hands of a postal carrier.
Can I redirect a package once it is out for delivery?
Once your package has been marked as Out for Delivery, it is very unlikely that USPS will be able to redirect it. If you need to change the delivery address, you will have to contact the sender and ask them to send a new package.
My package is not delivered. What can I do?
If your package is marked as Out for Delivery and you don't receive it by the end of the day, it can be frustrating. There are a few things you can do though to locate your package.
1. Check the time
First, remember USPS' delivery hours. Packages can arrive as late as 8pm. If it is still early, be patient as it could still be out for delivery. The driver could simply have been delayed, you may be at a later point on their route, or there could have been issues with the truck.
2. Check around your house
Check at various locations around your house or even inside your garage. Especially if it is raining, driers will often place packages in odd places to make sure they are safe and out of sight.
3. Check with your neighbors
Check with your neighbors to see if they may have received it by mistake. Sometimes, packages will get placed at the wrong address - especially if there is a handwritten address on the shipping label. Other times, the driver may require a signature, and go to your neighbor to sign. If you still can't find your package, contact your local post office and ask them to do a search for the missing package.
4. Check the tracking again in the morning
Oftentimes, your tracking information may update with additional information if the package is not actually going to get delivered that day. Some frequent issues you may find include:
No Access - The driver attempted a delivery, but was not able to access your property whether it was a gate issue or there was an animal outside that prevented the delivery from being made.
Receptacle Blocked - The driver could not get into your mailbox, whether it was bad weather, construction, traffic, or another issue.
Notice Left - USPS attempted to deliver your package, but for some reason they could not make it happen. Normally, this is for packages that required a signature. They will attempt a few redeliveries, but eventually it will end up on hold at the post office for pickup.
Delivered - Now, if you've already checked everywhere for your package and it still says delivered, you need to contact your post office. Sometimes items can get mis-scanned when they weren't actually delivered. The USPS is able to see where and when a package was scanned as delivered which can give them some helpful info to help you find your package. Inevitably, you may have to file a missing mail search to find your package.
5. File a claim
If there is no sign of your package after a few days, you will need to file a claim with USPS. You can do this online or at your local post office. You will need to provide proof of purchase, as well as a detailed description of the missing package.
If you are filing a claim for a lost package, you may be able to get a refund or have the package reshipped. However, USPS is not obligated to compensate you for lost or damaged packages except if you purchase insurance or use specific ship methods.
Which USPS ship methods are insured?
While you can purchase insurance with any ship method, only certain options come with insurance.
Insured (up to $100)
Priority Mail
Priority Mail Express
What if my package was an online purchase?
If you ordered something online from a retailer, the first thing you should after confirming the package is not delivered is contact them. They should be able to go through much of the process with USPS so you don't have to.
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