© GetHuman Inc.

How Do I Report a Missing Package to Usps?

In a nutshell: A missing package is a parcel that hasn't been delivered to the recipient. When a package is lost or missing, customers can report it and ask USPS to search for the parcel, visit the local post office for assistance, or file a claim or refund. Note that USPS will not search for hazardous items, over-the-counter or prescription drugs, live ammunition, perishables, beauty products, or handguns. Are you missing a package? Keep reading to find out how to report your missing package to USPS.

Introduction

A missing package is a parcel that hasn't been delivered to the recipient. When a package is lost or missing, customers can report it and ask USPS to search for the parcel, visit the local post office for assistance, or file a claim or refund. Note that USPS will not search for hazardous items, over-the-counter or prescription drugs, live ammunition, perishables, beauty products, or handguns. Are you missing a package? Keep reading to find out how to report your missing package to USPS.

Track Your Package

Before reporting a missing package to USPS, we suggest tracking it first. You can find the parcel's tracking number on your shipping receipt, email confirmation, shipping confirmation email, or from the USPS tracking label. Enter the tracking number in the search field and click Track. When the status indicates 'Delivered' but you have not received the parcel yet, consider reporting the missing item to USPS.

If you're waiting for multiple shipments, we suggest signing up for Informed Delivery to track all incoming packages. You'll get real-time updates when your package is delivered to your mailbox or notifications for Expected Delivery Updates, Available for Pickup, or Package In-Transit Updates.

Submit a Mail Search Request

To report a missing package, submit a mail search. Fill out the details, including your mailing information, where to send the email (when USPS locates it), and the contents of your mailpiece. You also need to agree to the disclaimer and terms and conditions before you can proceed. After filling out the form, click Verify Address. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to submit the request successfully.

The earliest you can submit a mail search is 7 days after the original mailing date, and the latest is 365 days after the mailing date. Wait for an email notification regarding the status of your request. When it says Mailpiece Found, it means it's being prepared for shipment to the address you provided. When the status indicates Expired, it means they haven't found the parcel. In this case, you can request a refund or file a claim.

Request a Refund

Did you use Priority Mail? Then you're eligible to request a refund. You'll need the tracking number, along with the mailing date and proof of service, to process the refund. Just fill out the form, click Continue, and follow the instructions.

You can also request a refund at the nearest post office.

Find a Post Office

Just enter your zip code, city, or state, and click Search to find the closest post office in your area. You can also use this tool to look for the nearest self-service kiosks and collection boxes.

Conclusion

You can also file a claim for your missing package. You can submit a claim online, by calling USPS, or via mail. For faster approval, completely fill out the form and include all relevant documentation before mailing it to USPS. Be sure to submit the claim within 60 days of the mailing date. Customers usually get a decision within 5-10 business days. Note that USPS will not pay a claim higher than the missing item's actual value. Once approved, wait for the payment in 7-10 business days. Have any more questions? Re-read the steps above or contact Support today.

Further questions?

Ask a followup or related question and we will try to provide an answer in seconds.
Adam has been tirelessly trying to help customers find the best tips and tricks to get through phone trees and writing many guides for prickly customer service problems. He's been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Inside Edition and Bloomberg.

Why does GetHuman Write How-to Guides for US Postal Service Problems?

GetHuman has been working for over 10 years on sourcing information about big organizations like Comcast in order to help customers resolve customer service issues faster. We started with contact information and fastest ways to reach a human at big companies. Particularly ones with slow or complicated IVR or phone menu systems. Or companies that have self-serve help forums instead of a customer service department. From there, we realized that consumers still needed more detailed help solving the most common problems, so we expanded to this set of guides, which grows every day. And if you spot any issues with our What do I do if my Xfinity TV or internet is out? guide, please let us know by sending us feedback. We want to be as helpful as possible. If you appreciated this guide, please share it with your favorite people. Our free information and tools is powered by you, the customer. The more people that use it, the better it gets.

US Postal Service

Asked 6 years ago
Updated 2 months ago
Viewed 2,936,294 times
US Postal Service
missing package
delivary issues
missing delivary
lost delivary

Paying Your Telecom Too Much?

After helping consumers for 10 years, we realized that you need an impartial, live person you can talk to about comparing the various TV, cable, Internet and phone plans in your area- somebody who can compare the best deals across telecom providers. So we created a free concierge service you can call at the phone number below.

Call Anytime: 888-379-2546Our concierge is unaffiliated and therefore able to compare deals across many companies
Was this page helpful?YesNeeds work
Sharing is what powers GetHuman's free customer service contact information and tools. You can help!