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Millions of packages go missing in the United States every year. This guide will walk you through the necessary steps to take if your USPS package is lost or stolen.
First Steps to Take
Check the Tracking Number
When you suspect your package hasn’t arrived, start with the tracking number. This unique identifier is typically found in your order confirmation email or shipping notification and allows you to monitor your package’s journey.
Visit the USPS tracking page to input this number and see the latest updates. Wait at least 24 hours beyond the expected delivery date before escalating your concern.
Ask Your Neighbors
If tracking information doesn’t provide a clear answer, check with your immediate neighbors. Delivery drivers occasionally leave packages with neighbors for safekeeping or might have delivered your package to the wrong address.
Contact the Sender
Reach out to the retailer or person who sent your package. Many online stores have established procedures for handling lost or stolen shipments and may offer a refund or replacement.
Provide them with the tracking number and details of the non-delivery. Often, the sender, as the customer of USPS, can initiate inquiries or claims on your behalf.
Reporting a Lost Package to USPS
If your package remains unaccounted for after initial checks, officially report the issue to USPS. For a package that appears lost (hasn’t arrived within the expected timeframe and tracking status hasn’t updated), initiate a missing mail search after at least seven days have passed since the expected delivery date.
Online Report
Use the online inquiry form found on the USPS Contact Us page under “Email Us.” This form allows you to detail the specifics at your own pace.
Provide as much information as possible:
- Tracking number
- Sender and recipient details
- Description of contents
- Date of mailing
Phone Report
Contact the USPS Customer Care Center by calling 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777). Speaking with a representative can provide immediate assistance in reporting your lost package and initiating a search.
In-Person Report
Visit your local Post Office. Postal workers may have specific insights into delivery routes or known issues in your area. Bring your tracking number and all available details about the package.
What to Do If Your Package Was Stolen
If you suspect your package was stolen rather than lost, take these additional steps:
Report to USPIS
Package theft is a federal crime. Report it to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the agency responsible for investigating mail theft.
Submit a report through the USPIS website or call them directly at 1-877-876-2455.
Provide details about the suspected theft, including tracking number, date of expected delivery, and circumstances that lead you to believe it was stolen.
File a Police Report
Contact your local police department to file a report. This creates an official record of the crime, which can be crucial for insurance claims or if your credit card offers purchase protection.
While local law enforcement might not immediately recover your package, the report helps identify patterns of theft in your neighborhood.
Filing a Claim with USPS
Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible to file a claim with USPS for compensation. The ability to file a claim generally depends on whether the mail was insured.
Eligible Mail Services
USPS offers insurance options for various mail services, and certain services include automatic coverage:
| Mail Service | Eligibility for Lost Package Claim (if Insured) | Eligibility for Stolen Package Claim (if Insured) |
|---|---|---|
| Priority Mail Express | Yes | Yes |
| Priority Mail | Yes | Yes |
| Insured Mail | Yes | Yes |
| Collect on Delivery (COD) | Yes | Yes |
| Registered Mail (with insurance) | Yes | Yes |
Even if your package was uninsured, if it’s officially deemed lost or damaged following a missing mail search, you might be able to file a claim for the shipping costs.
Required Documentation
Gather these documents to expedite the claims process:
- Tracking or label number from shipping receipt
- Proof of insurance purchase
- Proof of item value (receipt, invoice, etc.)
- Photos of damage (if applicable)
- Repair estimates (if applicable)
Retain all evidence until your claim is fully resolved.
Filing Methods
Online: File through the USPS website (requires a USPS.com account). This allows you to save your progress and track claim status.
By Mail: Call USPS National Materials Customer Service at 1-800-332-0317 to request a Domestic Claim Form. Complete and mail it with supporting documentation.
Claim Timeline and Appeals
USPS typically issues a decision within 5-10 business days. You can monitor progress through your USPS.com account.
If your claim is denied or partially approved, you can file an appeal within 30 days of the decision. Focus on addressing the reasons for denial and provide new supporting documentation. If your first appeal is denied, you may file a second and final appeal.
Why Packages Go Missing
Understanding common reasons for missing packages can help you avoid similar situations:
- Address labels becoming illegible or falling off
- Scanning errors during sorting processes
- Physical damage making labels unrecognizable
- High package volume during peak seasons
- Misdelivery to incorrect addresses
- Technology limitations in tracking systems
- Weather events or staffing fluctuations
Package theft often occurs because:
- Thieves target unattended packages on porches
- Packages may contain valuable items or personal information
- Ease of access presents a low-risk opportunity
- Internal theft by employees (though rare)
Preventing Future Issues
Take these proactive steps to reduce the risk of lost or stolen packages:
Secure Delivery Options
- Track packages diligently and retrieve promptly
- Upgrade to a locking mailbox
- Schedule deliveries for times when someone is home
- Use USPS Hold Mail service when away
- Request signature confirmation for valuable items
- Use Package Intercept to redirect packages
- Choose Hold for Pickup at your local Post Office
- Deliver to alternate locations (workplace, neighbor, USPS Smart Locker)
Security Measures
- Use secure collection boxes for outgoing mail
- Install a doorbell camera or home security system
- Establish a neighborhood watch program
- Ensure shipping information is clear and accurate
- Purchase package insurance for valuable items
Understanding USPS Insurance
Domestic Coverage
- Standard shipping insurance available up to $5,000
- Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and USPS Ground Advantage include $100 insurance
- Registered Mail offers insurance up to $50,000 for cash
International Coverage
- Priority Mail Express International and Priority Mail International include $200 insurance for merchandise
- Coverage varies by destination country
Insurance Costs
| Merchandise Value (USD) | Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| $0.01 – $50.00 | $2.75 |
| $50.01 – $100.00 | $3.50 |
| $100.01 – $200.00 | $4.60 |
| $200.01 – $300.00 | $6.05 |
| $300.01 – $400.00 | $7.60 |
| $400.01 – $500.00 | $9.15 |
| $500.01 – $600.00 | $12.25 |
| $600.01 – $5,000.00 | $12.25 plus $1.90 per $100.00 over $600 |
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