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USPS Informed Delivery is a game-changer for managing your mail and packages. This free service allows you to preview your incoming mail and track packages before they even arrive, saving you time and increasing security.
If you’re tired of waiting to see what’s in your mailbox or worrying about package deliveries, this tool makes life easier. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what it does, why it’s useful, and how you can start using it to simplify your daily routine.
What Does This Service Do?
USPS Informed Delivery is a service from the U.S. Postal Service that lets you see a preview of your mail before it arrives. Every morning, you get an email with grayscale images of your letter-sized mail like bills, letters, or cards set to arrive that day.
It also tracks packages so you know when they’re arriving. For example, my friend Macy uses it to keep tabs on letters from her best friend, Sydney. She loves the convenience of knowing what to expect before it hits her mailbox.
Key Features You’ll Love
USPS Informed Delivery offers some cool tools that make managing your mail and packages simple and hassle-free:
- Daily Emails: Get images of up to 10 pieces of mail each morning, usually by 9 a.m.
- Online Dashboard: See all your mail previews and package updates in one spot.
- Mobile App: Use the USPS Mobile app to access all your postal services directly from your phone.
- Package Tracking: Track your packages and get updates on their delivery status.
These features help you stay on top of your deliveries, even when you’re on the go.
Why Use This Service?
Using Informed Delivery has some significant benefits. It saves time, enhances security, and makes planning deliveries easier. Here’s why people love it:
- Convenience: Check your mail from anywhere—perfect for those who are always on the move or traveling.
- Security: Spot if something’s missing when you’re away from home, reducing the chance of porch piracy.
- Planning: Know when a birthday card, package, or important document is arriving, and plan accordingly.
For instance, last summer, I tracked a gift package with Informed Delivery and knew exactly when to be home for it. It saved me from worrying about it sitting outside all day.
Also Read: Track Your Vanguard Logistics Tracking: Real-Time Updates & Tools
Who Can Sign Up?
While most people can use Informed Delivery, there are a few eligibility requirements:
- Location: You need a home address or PO Box in a supported ZIP Code. Visit the USPS website to check if your address is eligible.
- Unique Mailbox Code: If you live in an apartment, your mailbox must be uniquely coded. This is crucial to ensure the service works for you.
- Identity Verification: You must be able to verify your identity online or in person at your local post office.
Once you’ve confirmed these details, you’re good to go!
How to Get Started
Getting started with USPS Informed Delivery is quick and easy. Here’s how you can sign up:
- Visit the USPS Informed Delivery website.
- Click “Sign Up for Free” and enter your address.
- Create or log in to your USPS.com account.
- Verify your identity—you can do this online or at the post office.
After you sign up, you’ll receive a welcome letter within a week, and you’re all set!
Navigating Your Dashboard
Once you’re signed up, your Informed Delivery Dashboard becomes your go-to spot for managing everything. You can:
- View images of your incoming mail.
- Track packages.
- Set delivery preferences, such as where you’d like packages left if you’re not home.
You can access this dashboard through the USPS website or the USPS Mobile app, making it easy to stay on top of your deliveries.
Tracking Your Packages
Informed Delivery isn’t just for letters—it’s great for tracking packages, too. You can:
- Get alerts when a package is on its way or delivered.
- Leave notes for your mail carrier, such as “Leave it on the porch” if you’re not home.
- Reschedule deliveries if you miss one so it doesn’t get left behind.
For example, last year, I tracked a phone delivery and made sure it didn’t sit outside all day by rescheduling the Delivery when I realized I’d missed it.
Also Read: United Airlines Flight UA770 Emergency Diversion: What Happened and Why It Matters
What Mail Previews Show You
The mail previews you receive each morning are grayscale images of your letter-sized mail like bills, cards, or letters but not packages, magazines, or handwritten notes. You will see up to 10 pieces of mail per day in the email, but any extras will be available on your dashboard for 7 days.
Keeping Your Info Safe
USPS takes security seriously. Here’s how your information stays safe with Informed Delivery:
- Identity Verification: You’ll need to confirm your identity to create an account.
- Limited Previews: Only the outside of your mail, such as envelopes, is shown. No personal content inside is revealed.
- Security Team: The U.S. The Postal Inspection Service keeps an eye on the system to ensure your privacy is protected.
You can feel confident knowing your information is secure.
Fixing Common Problems
Sometimes things don’t work perfectly. If you run into issues, try these tips:
- No emails? Check your notification settings to make sure you’re set to receive them.
- Missing mail? Not all mail is scanned, especially large packages.
- Still stuck? Contact USPS customer service, and they’ll assist you in resolving the issue.
Most problems are simple to fix, so there’s no need to worry!
Extra Tips for Using Informed Delivery
Want to get even more out of Informed Delivery? Here are some bonus tips:
- Pair it with a video doorbell: Use a video doorbell like Ring or Arlo to watch your porch when packages arrive.
- Consider a lockbox: Companies like Felikuk offer lockboxes for safe package drops.
- Promo Tips: Check out the 2024 Informed Delivery Guidebook for additional tips on managing your deliveries, especially during peak seasons like Amazon Prime Day.
These extras can boost security and give you more control over your deliveries.
Final Thoughts
USPS Informed Delivery is a must-have tool for anyone who wants to stay on top of their mail and packages. Whether you’re looking to avoid missed deliveries, prevent porch theft, or simply get ahead on your planning, this free service has got you covered. Don’t wait sign up today and experience the convenience of having your digital mailbox right at your fingertips!
FAQs
What is USPS Informed Delivery?
It’s a free USPS service that lets you preview your incoming mail and track packages before they arrive.
Is USPS Informed Delivery available for everyone?
Most people can use it, but you must have a U.S. address, a unique mailbox code (if in an apartment), and be able to verify your identity.
How do I sign up for USPS Informed Delivery?
Visit the USPS website, create an account, and verify your identity. You’ll receive a welcome letter within a week.
How often will I get email updates?
You’ll receive daily emails with images of up to 10 pieces of letter-sized mail, and package tracking info.
Can I track packages with USPS Informed Delivery?
Yes, it allows you to track packages and get delivery alerts.