Frequently Asked Questions about USPS

• What is the Official USPS Website?

  The official USPS website is usps.com, where you can learn more about the carrier, its services, and products. It is also the main portal for official USPS tracking tools, online shipping options, and customer support.

  You can contact customer support by calling 1-800-ASK-USPS or submitting a request online.

• How Can I Track my USPS Package?

  You can track your USPS package at any time using the USPS Tracking page or the USPS Mobile App. Enter your tracking number to see the latest delivery updates and the current status of your shipment. These tools provide official tracking information directly from the USPS system.

  If you manage multiple shipments from different carriers, you can also use our Parcel Manager. It helps you track and organize USPS and other packages in one place.

• USPS International and Domestic Tracking Numbers

  USPS uses the UPU S10 format for tracking numbers for many international parcels. If you see a number similar to "XX 000000000 US", it typically indicates that the USPS has issued the parcel and it is traveling from the United States to another country.

  Domestic shipments use a different format, typically consisting only of numbers. Standard domestic formats include 10–22 digits (for example, 9400 0000 0000 0000 0000 00).

  International Number Formats (UPU S10)

  • Priority Mail Express International - EMS (EC 000 000 000 US);
  • Priority Mail International - (CP 000 000 000 US).

  Domestic Number Formats

  • USPS Tracking - (9400 0000 0000 0000 0000 00);
  • Priority Mail - (9205 0000 0000 0000 0000 00);
  • Certified Mail - (9407 0000 0000 0000 0000 00);
  • Collect On Delivery Hold For Pickup - (9303 0000 0000 0000 0000 00);
  • Priority Mail Express - (9270 0000 0000 0000 0000 00);
  • Registered Mail - (9208 0000 0000 0000 0000 00);
  • Global Express Guaranteed - (82 000 000 00);
  • Signature Confirmation - (9202 0000 0000 0000 0000 00).

• Can I get Automatic USPS Tracking Updates?

  Yes. You can set up email or text notifications for your USPS packages. Enter your tracking number on the USPS Tracking page and click "Text & Email Updates". You can also text your tracking number to 28777 (2USPS) to receive SMS updates only.

  These alerts are based on official USPS tracking data and notify you as new scan events are recorded.

• What’s the Cost to Send a Parcel to Another Country?

  The cost to send an international letter depends on its weight and destination. You can check the current price for a one-ounce letter in the official Notice 123 Price List (PDF). For up-to-date postage rates and options, use the USPS Postage Price Calculator.

• What Should I do if my USPS International Package is Lost, Damaged, or I Need a Refund?

  If your international package is lost, missing, or damaged, you can file an international claim online or at your local Post Office. Claims are available only for insured services, such as Priority Mail International and Priority Mail Express International.

  You'll need your tracking number, mailing receipt, and proof of value (for example, an invoice or receipt). For detailed conditions and instructions, visit the USPS International Claims page.

  If your shipment was delayed or never delivered, you may be eligible for a postage refund. To check eligibility and submit a request, go to the USPS International Refunds page.

  Processing times and rules depend on the destination country and the mail class used.

• When do I Pay Customs Clearance Costs, and What Happens if I Don’t?

  If you receive a package from outside the United States, customs duties or taxes may apply. These customs clearance costs are set by the customs authority of the destination country, not by USPS. In most cases, the parcel can only be delivered after it has been processed and released by customs.

  According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), the rules for duty-free imports (de minimis) have changed, but some exemptions still apply:

  1. Personal letters remain duty-free;
  2. Genuine gifts valued at $100 USD or less may be exempt from duties;
  3. Personal travel items under $200 USD may also remain duty-free.

  If customs fees are due, the local postal or customs service will notify you to pay them online or upon delivery before your parcel is released. If you do not pay, your package may remain on hold at customs and later be returned to the sender or disposed of according to local regulations.

  For the latest information, visit U.S. Customs and Border Protection or the USPS International Shipping section.