💡 How-To
How to Track a USPS, UPS, or FedEx Package
Lost your tracking number? Package stuck in transit? Here's how to track any package from any carrier, find your tracking number, and understand what each status means.
Tracking by Carrier
| Carrier | Website | Phone | Tracking Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| USPS | tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirm | 1-800-ASK-USPS | 9400 1118 9956 1234 5678 00 |
| UPS | ups.com/track | 1-800-742-5877 | 1Z 999 AA1 01 2345 6784 |
| FedEx | fedex.com/tracking | 1-800-463-3339 | 12-16 digits (no letters) |
| Amazon | amazon.com/gp/your-account/order-history | In-app chat | TBA followed by 12 digits |
Where to Find Your Tracking Number
- Confirmation email: Search your email for "tracking" or "shipped"
- Order history: Check your account on the retailer's website
- Text notifications: Many carriers send tracking via text
- Shipping label: The number on the label (top of receipt)
- Carrier app: UPS My Choice, FedEx Delivery Manager, USPS Informed Delivery
What Tracking Statuses Mean
| Status | What It Means | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Label Created | Shipping label printed, not yet picked up | Wait 24-48 hours |
| In Transit | Package is moving through the network | Normal " — check back later |
| Out for Delivery | On the truck, delivering today | Package arrives today |
| Delivered | Package was delivered | Check porch, mailbox, with neighbors |
| Exception/Delay | Weather, address issue, or customs hold | Contact carrier |
Package Not Showing Up?
- Check with neighbors: Delivery person may have left it at the wrong door
- Check side doors/back porch: Drivers often hide packages from street view
- Wait 24 hours: "Delivered" sometimes means loaded on truck for next day
- File a claim: If not found within 48 hours, contact the retailer for a refund or reship
USPS Informed Delivery: Sign up for free at informeddelivery.usps.com " — you'll get daily emails with photos of incoming mail and package tracking. This is the best way to know exactly what's arriving each day, even before it shows up.
⚠️ Tracking scam warning: Never click tracking links from unknown text messages or emails. Scammers send fake "delivery notification" texts with phishing links. Always go directly to the carrier's website and enter your tracking number manually.
The bottom line: Go to the carrier's website (usps.com, ups.com, fedex.com) and enter your tracking number. Find the number in your confirmation email or order history. "Out for Delivery" means it's arriving today. "Delivered" but not found? Check with neighbors and wait 24 hours before filing a claim.