If you’re expecting a package to be delivered by USPS, you may wonder how long they hold packages for you. Whether you had a delivery attempt or you’re planning a vacation, it’s important to know the USPS package holding period and their policy regarding package retention. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about USPS package hold duration.
For most USPS mail services, packages are held for up to 15 days after the date of attempted delivery. This gives you enough time to retrieve your package if you missed the initial delivery. However, if you don’t claim your package within 15 days, it will be returned to the sender. The holding period is slightly different for Priority Mail Express packages, which are only held for 5 days.
If you need more time to pick up your package, you can submit a “Hold Mail” request online, which extends the hold period to 30 days. This service is especially useful if you’re planning a vacation or if you won’t be available to collect your package within the standard holding period.
When USPS holds a package for you, they issue three notices: an initial notice, a second notice, and a final notice. These notices inform you about the attempted delivery and provide instructions on how to retrieve your package. You can collect your package from your local post office by presenting the PS Form 3849 notice and a valid photographic ID. Alternatively, you can authorize a third party to pick up the package on your behalf with their proper identification and your permission.
USPS provides tracking information for held packages, so you can stay updated on the status of your package. Additionally, you can sign up for USPS Informed Delivery, a free service that notifies you about the mail scheduled for delivery the next day. This way, you’ll always be in the loop about your incoming packages.
If you have packages sent to a PO Box that don’t fit inside, USPS will hold them for 15 days, unless Priority Mail Express was used. In that case, the packages will be held for 5 days. USPS notifies recipients of held packages through a peach-colored PS Form 3849 notice that includes information about the attempted delivery date, time, and the post office where the package is being held.
Key Takeaways:
- Most USPS mail services hold packages for up to 15 days after the attempted delivery.
- Packages not claimed within 15 days are returned to the sender.
- “Hold Mail” requests can be submitted online to extend the hold period to 30 days.
- Priority Mail Express packages are held for 5 days.
- USPS issues three notices for held packages and allows third-party package pickup with proper identification and permission.
USPS Package Hold Rules for International Mail
When it comes to international mail, USPS has specific rules and guidelines in place. Understanding these rules can help ensure a smooth and efficient process for both senders and recipients. Here are the key details you need to know:
Retention Period and Package Hold
USPS holds international mail items at Post Office facilities for a duration of 30 days. This allows the intended recipient ample time to pick up the package. It’s important to note that the retention period starts from the date of arrival, so prompt action is recommended.
However, there are certain exceptions to this rule. Inbound Express Mail Service items are typically returned to the sender after just 5 days, unless the sender specifies a shorter duration.
Refused and Undeliverable Items
If an item is refused or deemed undeliverable, USPS treats it as such immediately. These items will not be held, and appropriate actions will be taken by the postal service.
Sender’s Request for Return
If a sender requests the return of an item enclosed within the package, USPS can hold it for the specified period. However, this holding period should not exceed 60 days.
Conditionally Refused Items and Customs Procedures
Conditionally refused items, which are subject to assessed duty, will be held until a decision is made by the customs office regarding the protest. Similarly, items returned from customs custody for failure to comply with customs entry procedures are treated as undeliverable.
Delivery to Alternate Addressees
If an item bears the sender’s request for delivery to an alternate addressee, USPS will hold it for 15 days at the disposal of the first addressee and an additional 15 days at the disposal of the second addressee.
Finding the Post Office
To locate the exact post office where your international package is being held, you can check the tracking information or contact USPS customer services for assistance.
Understanding the USPS package hold rules for international mail is crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage your international packages and ensure timely delivery or pick-up.
Managing Packages During Vacations
If you’re going on vacation and want to ensure the safety of your packages, there are convenient services available from USPS, UPS, and FedEx.
USPS offers a complimentary Vacation Hold service, allowing you to hold your mail at a local post office for a minimum of 3 days and a maximum of 30 days. For longer holds, mail forwarding is recommended. You can schedule USPS holds online as early as the next delivery day or up to 30 days in advance. Once you’re back, you can either pick up your mail at the post office or have it delivered by the letter carrier.
In addition, USPS provides a free “Informed Delivery” service, which sends you notifications about mail scheduled for delivery the next day, keeping you informed even while you’re away.
If you prefer UPS, their MyChoice Digital Account Service allows you to hold packages at their distribution center or leave them with a neighbor. You can also reroute packages for pickup at alternative UPS locations.
For those who use FedEx, their Delivery Manager service offers a free vacation hold option. You can temporarily hold parcels for up to 14 days, ensuring they won’t be delivered while you’re away.
Remember to schedule delivery dates and utilize in-store pickup options whenever possible, especially for local deliveries and online retailers. Additionally, to ensure the security of your packages during vacations, consider asking a friend or family member to check on your house and use retailer in-store pickup to avoid leaving packages unattended.
FAQ
How long does USPS hold packages?
For most USPS mail services, packages are held for up to 15 days after the date of attempted delivery. After 15 days, unclaimed packages are returned to the sender.
Can I extend the hold period for my package?
Yes, you can submit a “Hold Mail” request online to extend the hold period to 30 days.
How long are Priority Mail Express packages held?
Priority Mail Express packages are only held for 5 days.
How will I know if USPS is holding my package?
USPS will notify you through a peach-colored PS Form 3849 notice, which informs you of the attempted delivery date, time, and the post office where the package is being held.
How do I pick up a held USPS package?
To pick up a held USPS package, you need to bring the PS Form 3849 notice and a valid photographic ID to the post office. Third parties can pick up the package with permission and proper identification.
Can USPS hold international mail items?
Yes, USPS holds international mail items for 30 days, allowing the addressee to pick them up.
How can I find the post office where my international package is being held?
You can look at the tracking information or contact USPS customer services to find the post office where your international package is being held.
Does USPS offer a vacation hold service?
Yes, USPS offers a complimentary hold service for mail during vacations, holding it at a local post office for a minimum of 3 days and a maximum of 30 days. Mail forwarding is recommended for longer holds.
How can I schedule a USPS hold for when I’m traveling?
Travelers can schedule USPS holds as early as the next delivery day or up to 30 days in advance. Mail can be picked up at the post office or delivered by the letter carrier upon return.
Does USPS offer any other service to stay updated on mail during vacation?
USPS also provides the free “Informed Delivery” service, which notifies recipients about mail scheduled for delivery the next day.
What vacation hold services do other shipping carriers provide?
UPS offers the UPS MyChoice Digital Account Service, allowing travelers to hold packages at their distribution center or leave them with a neighbor. FedEx provides a free vacation hold option through their FedEx Delivery Manager service, allowing recipients to place a temporary hold on parcels for up to 14 days.
Any tips for managing packages during vacations?
Additional measures to ensure package security during vacations include asking a friend or family member to check on the house and using retailer in-store pickup to avoid leaving packages unattended.