How to Prevent USPS Delivery Exceptions
USPS delivery exceptions are situations in which delivery is delayed due to factors beyond the control of the United States Postal Service. Sometimes, there is nothing left to do but wait a little longer than normal for the package. However, some of these situations occur due to errors made by the sender and are therefore preventable. How can you prevent USPS delivery exceptions?
The most common causes of USPS delivery exceptions are shipping label issues, peak seasons, federal holidays, extreme weather, natural disasters, transportation issues, customs clearance issues for international packages, package damage or loss, and failed delivery attempts. While you cannot control weather, road closures, or vehicle breakdowns, you can prevent things like shipping label issues.
Address errors and unreadable, damaged, or missing shipping labels are probably the number one cause of USPS delivery exceptions. Fortunately, this is a highly preventable issue. Whether you print shipping labels yourself or purchase them at a post office, you must ensure the recipient’s address is 100% complete and correct before purchasing and printing the label. Do not forget to include specific delivery instructions, such as gate codes, if applicable, to prevent failed delivery attempts.
It is important to securely attach the label to the package while ensuring the barcode remains readable. Do not place the label over seams or edges, and ensure that it is not wrinkled. If the shipping label is non-adhesive, cover it with clear packing tape to protect the label from moisture and damage. However, do not tape over the barcode, as this may make it difficult to scan.
Even if you take precautions, the shipping label may still get lost or damaged, so it is important to ensure that the USPS can identify and deliver your package in such a situation. We recommend writing the sender’s and recipient’s addresses, as well as the package’s tracking number, on the box with a black permanent marker. You can also put a backup shipping label or a slip with the sender’s and recipient’s information inside the package.
To prevent damage to the package, which can result in shipping delays and the need to apply for reimbursement if the package was insured, you should use the right packaging. Use a sturdy, corrugated box that is the right size, and don’t forget about cushioning materials, especially for fragile items. If possible, avoid reusing old boxes because they may get damaged or fall apart during transportation, even if they looked okay to you.
To prevent delays in customs processing of international packages, make sure the customs declaration is filled out correctly and that the package has all the necessary additional paperwork, such as a purchase receipt, commercial invoice, certificates, permits, etc., if applicable.
Finally, you should mail packages a little early during peak shipping seasons, such as the winter holiday season, as well as before federal holidays. Although the USPS makes every effort to deliver packages on time, even during peak seasons, delays can occur when the increase in package volume is greater than expected. As for federal holidays, they are days off for most USPS employees, so your package will be delivered after the holiday. To avoid this, mail your package earlier to ensure it arrives before the holiday.