Why Is My USPS Tracking Not Updating? Possible Reasons

Most USPS packages have a tracking number that allows senders and recipients to monitor their packages’ progress while they are in transit. However, the tracking status sometimes does not update for a couple of days, which can be frustrating. Why does this happen, and what should you do if your USPS tracking is not updating?

Each package has a shipping label with a barcode that acts as its unique identifier and helps track the package throughout the delivery process. The barcode encodes information such as the tracking number, destination, and the names of the sender and recipient. It is scanned at sorting facilities and at other points along the delivery route. Packages are usually scanned automatically at large sorting facilities and manually when they are accepted for delivery, at the final delivery stage, and in some other situations.

Ideally, a package’s tracking status would be updated after each scan, but this doesn't always happen. Sometimes, a USPS tracking status such as “In Transit” or “Arrived at Sorting Facility” does not update for days, creating the impression that your package is stuck or worse, lost. Luckily, this is not always the case. There are different reasons why your USPS tracking information might not be updated, and some of them are pretty mundane.

First, if the tracking status says “in transit”, your package may actually be in transit. The United States is a large country, and it sometimes takes packages a few days to travel between remote sorting facilities via ground delivery. Delays in delivery may also be caused by adverse weather, natural disasters, road closures, vehicle breakdowns, road accidents, labor strikes, or other emergencies.

Second, USPS tracking information does not update in real time. Therefore, the tracking status of your package will not change immediately after it is scanned at a sorting facility. It sometimes takes 24 to 48 hours for the status to update, which, while frustrating, is not unusual. Server outages and other technical issues can temporarily disrupt tracking updates, causing even longer delays.

Third, although packages are supposed to be scanned at every sorting facility along the way, this does not always happen. During peak seasons, when there is a large influx of packages, USPS employees may skip non-essential scanning to speed up delivery workflows and prevent backlogging. In this case, it may seem like your package is not moving through the network, but it actually is.

Sometimes packages are delivered without being scanned one last time, so check for the package at its final destination. If you’re the sender, follow up with the recipient. If you’re the recipient, ask your neighbors or the front desk of your apartment building if they have any packages addressed to you.

Sometimes the tracking status is not updating due to issues with the shipping label or the package itself. For example, if a barcode is damaged or difficult to scan, the package must be processed manually, delaying tracking updates. An incorrect or incomplete address may also result in a tracking delay and ultimately cause the package to be returned to the sender. If a shipping label is lost or damaged beyond recognition, the package becomes undeliverable. Issues with packages that can cause tracking or delivery delays include incorrect weigh and/or size, and inappropriate or damaged packaging.

The worst-case scenario is your package being misplaced or lost . While such situations do happen, they account for only a small percentage of all tracking status delays.

What should you do if your USPS tracking status hasn’t changed in 24 to 48 hours? First, be patient, especially if it’s a weekend or federal holiday; the status may update on the next business day. If more than five business days have passed since the last update, contact USPS customer service at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777). Be prepared to provide your tracking number, full address, and mailing date to receive assistance. Another option is to submit a missing mail search request on the USPS website.