USPS: Ship smarter, track faster, fix problems

USPS still moves more letters and packages than most. If you send or wait for mail, the small choices you make — service type, packaging, and paperwork — decide whether a delivery is smooth or a headache. Below are clear, useful steps you can use right now to save money, speed up delivery, and fix issues fast.

Pick the right service and save

For domestic parcels, Priority Mail (1–3 business days) balances speed and cost. Priority Mail Express is the fastest option for guaranteed next‑day service in many places. For light parcels under 13 oz, First‑Class Package is cheaper but slower. Flat Rate boxes are great when your items are heavy but fit the box — shipping cost is the same no matter the weight.

Buy postage online (Click‑N‑Ship) to avoid retail markups and skip the line. Schedule a free package pickup from your home, drop at a blue collection box if it fits, or hand it in at the post office. Compare prices quickly on the USPS price calculator before you choose.

Track, protect and prepare for international mail

Always get and save the tracking number. Enter it on the USPS tracking page or enable Informed Delivery emails to get scans and estimated arrival times. For international shipments, fill out customs forms accurately and list the item value. Expect customs holds and additional duties in the destination country — that’s normal. Use Priority Mail International or Priority Mail Express International for faster handling, and attach all required forms before you hand the package to staff.

Packing matters. Use a sturdy box, fill voids so the item doesn't move, seal all seams with strong tape, and put the shipping label on the largest flat side. Fragile items should have padding on all sides and clear “Fragile” marking.

If your package needs insurance, buy it when you mail. Many Priority services include limited coverage, but you can add declared value or private insurance for high‑worth items.

Lost or delayed mail? First check tracking. If updates stop, open a missing mail request on the USPS website. For insured packages, file a claim online — you’ll need receipts and photos. For local delivery issues, contact your local postmaster or call USPS customer service at 1‑800‑ASK‑USPS (1‑800‑275‑8777).

Watch out for scams. USPS will not call demanding payment to release a package or ask for sensitive info by email. If you get suspicious calls, texts, or emails, do not click links. Report scams to the USPS Office of the Inspector General at oig.uspis.gov.

Small habits cut stress: print labels at home, get tracking, insure valuable items, and keep receipts. If something goes wrong, act within the first 7–10 days — faster reports mean faster results. Use these steps and you’ll spend less time worrying and more time getting things where they need to go.