usps package research case

USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide

Whether you are the sender of a package or the recipient, the “ Package Research Case Created ” update from USPS can raise a few questions.

What exactly does the alert mean? Where is the package when the update is sent and how long will the case take?

Let’s take a look…

Summary: Package Research Case Created

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS means that the package has been reported missing and that a case for locating the item has begun. In most scenarios, the sender will have made the report after not receiving the package in the appropriate amount of time.

Package Research Case Created – Guide

After the update is triggered, USPS will begin the process of locating the missing package.

This will involve looking through the progress of the item thus far and will be reliant on information provided by the party that opened the search case, (normally the recipient).

Furthermore, inquiries into a missing item that has been classed as delivered by USPS will differ from those that point to the item being delayed inside a facility.

Either way, when reporting the missing mail item the party opening the case will provide as many details as possible.

Unfortunately for the sender, receiving the “Package Research Case Created” update can sometimes be the first time you are made aware that issues have occurred.

In an eCommerce context, this might lead to the buyer (i.e. recipient of the package) requesting a refund or replacement item sent directly from the seller.

Whether this can be recouped via USPS will depend on the outcome of the research case and the level of delivery service originally purchased.

How long does a Research Case take?

From the time you make the research case, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision .

However, the type of postage service used will determine at what point after the shipment begins, you can open up the missing mail claim.

For example, Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes are eligible for opening a case 7 days after the original postage date.

Domestic Registered and Ground services require you to wait 14 days after the original postage date.

However, as mentioned the case itself should be resolved within 5 to 10 days of the case being requested.

What to Expect After a “Package Research Case Created” Update?

USPS does not state specifically the actions that are taken during an open research case.

That being said, an investigation into the route of the mail item, where it was last scanned, and where it currently might be located is clearly part of the process.

After the search period, the next tracking update will be “ Package Research Case Closed ”. The outcome will also be communicated. 

Either the item will be classed as missing by USPS so that an insurance claim can be filed, or the research case has discovered the location of the package and it is now making its way to the destination address.

Final Words

Essentially, the “Package Research Case Created” status update is used to notify parties that a missing mail claim has been made.

USPS has begun looking into the whereabouts of the missing package and a resolution should be stated within 5 to 10 days.

I’m a 25 year veteran of USPS. I’m retired now, but as the editor of Mailbox Master, I can’t quite remove myself from the carrier industry just yet. 🙂

1 thought on “USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide”

I purchased an item on eBay and it was mailed by Priority Mail on the 5th of January. As of the 7th, there had been no further status updates. On the 7th, the package was last scanned in Houston. I contacted the seller and he put in a service request. I called the post office the following day, because the status had changed to Research Package Case Closed. When calling the postal service, they made sure I was the correct recipient and then told me that the Research Package Case Closed meant that the case had been “resolved.” No explanation on how it was resolved. I don’t know if the package was lost or damaged or on its way. She also told me to call in and reopen the case which I did. Then the case was assigned a new service request number and that resulted in the addition of these words: “Last Location Pocatello” which is where I live. However, that was not part of the status. No status update since Research Package Case Closed at all. The Research package case closed status occurred on Wednesday the 17th. There has been no status update at all since then. No follow up to state the status. No one called to explain the status. It is now Sunday the 21st, and I am concerned as to what the “resolution” or “case closed” means. I have had delivery on Sunday when a package had gone missing and was found, but I don’t expect that service every time. So how do I know if I am going to receive my package?

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Understanding the ‘Package Research Case Closed’ Status

“Package Research Case Closed” in the context of USPS (United States Postal Service) typically means that the USPS has completed its investigation into a reported issue or inquiry regarding a specific mail or package delivery.

When a recipient or sender reports that a package is lost, delayed, or misdelivered, USPS initiates a “Package Research Case” to trace and determine the status or location of the package. Once their internal investigation is completed and they have determined the outcome (whether they located the package, delivered it, or could not find it), they close the research case.

The closing provides a resolution or explanation to the individual who initiated the inquiry, even if the desired outcome wasn’t achieved.

When Is the USPS “Package Research Case Closed” Update Triggered?

When the USPS issues a “Package Research Case Closed” update, it is triggered after they’ve completed their investigation into a specific inquiry or reported issue related to a mail or package delivery. This tracking update is always received after a “Package Research Case Created” alert. This occurs when a recipient or sender reports a package as lost, delayed, or misdelivered.

USPS conducts an internal investigation to trace the package , determine its status, or locate its whereabouts.

Based on their findings, they provide an outcome: this might be that the package was located and delivered, that it was determined to be truly lost, or any other relevant resolution.

Once this outcome is determined and there’s no further action to be taken from their end, the case is officially closed, triggering the “Package Research Case Closed” status update.

What Happens Next To USPS “Package Research Case Closed” Update

Package found and delivered.

If USPS successfully located the package during the research phase, the “Package Research Case Closed” update often means the package is either already delivered or back on track to be delivered to the intended recipient. In this case, tracking will generally be updated to show its new status and estimated delivery time. Customers can expect to receive their package shortly.

Package Not Found

If USPS couldn’t locate the package, the “Package research Case Closed” update means the internal investigation is completed, but the package remains lost or unaccounted for. The customer might be eligible for a refund or insurance claim, depending on the shipping service purchased and other variables. The sender will often have to initiate this process.

Tracking Stuck On “Package Research Case Closed”

When the USPS tracking is stuck on “Package Research Case Closed,” it suggests that while USPS has concluded its internal investigation regarding an issue with your package, its status hasn’t been updated further. This could leave senders or recipients in the dark about the current status or next steps.

Reasons Your Package Is Stuck On “Package Research Case Closed” USPS Update

Incomplete or unclear resolution.

When USPS concludes its investigation, there might be times when the findings aren’t clear-cut. This could lead to a “Package Research Case Closed” status without explicit information on the package’s whereabouts or next steps, causing uncertainty for the customer.

Technical Glitches

USPS’s tracking system, like any digital platform, can experience errors or downtimes. These technical glitches could prevent the system from displaying the most recent status of a package, leaving it stuck on the “Package Research Case Closed” update even if there have been further developments.

No Further Action Taken

After the research phase, there might be instances where USPS deems no additional steps are necessary, or they might be awaiting further instructions. This can leave the package without any forward movement, resulting in a persistent “Package Research Case Closed” status without subsequent updates.

Miscommunication Between Departments

The USPS is a vast organization with multiple departments handling distinct package processing and delivery phases. If there’s a lapse in communication between these departments, it might cause the tracking to stagnate, not reflecting the actual status of the package.

External Factors

Unpredictable events such as extreme weather conditions, operational disruptions, or even manual mistakes can impede the regular processing and updating of packages. These unforeseen challenges can cause the tracking to remain on the “Package Research Case Closed” status longer than expected.

What Steps To Take If USPS Tracking Stuck At “Package Research Case Closed”?

If your USPS tracking is stuck at “Package Research Case Closed,” it’s crucial to act proactively. Contact USPS customer service and provide your tracking number to get specific details on the package’s status.

If this doesn’t yield results, consider visiting your local post office; sometimes, direct interaction can expedite resolution. If your package had insurance and remains undelivered, initiate a claim with USPS.

Regularly check your mailbox or delivery area, as there might be delivery discrepancies. If the item was essential and remains missing, consider the possibility of reordering or arranging for a reshipment with the sender.

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• Service Guides
• CANADA POST

USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide

• by Nic Smith

Welcome to our comprehensive tracking guide for USPS packages. In this article, we will be discussing the “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS and what it means for you as a sender or recipient. Understanding this update is crucial for tracking your package and knowing the next steps to take. So, let’s dive in and unravel the details of this important USPS tracking status.

Key Takeaways:

• The “Package Research Case Created” update indicates that a package has been reported missing, and USPS has opened a case to locate it.
• This update is typically initiated by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe.
• USPS will review the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, usually the recipient.
• The duration of the research case can range from 5 to 10 days, depending on the postage service used.
• The outcome of the research case will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

What Does the “Package Research Case Created” Update Mean?

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS signifies that a package has been reported missing and a case for locating the item has been initiated. This alert is often triggered by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe.

USPS will start the process of locating the missing package by reviewing the tracking information and relying on any details provided by the party who opened the search case, typically the recipient. For eCommerce transactions, the recipient may request a refund or replacement item from the seller upon receiving this update.

Whether the sender can recoup the cost through USPS will depend on the outcome of the research case and the level of delivery service initially purchased. The research case typically takes between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision, with different timeframes for opening a case depending on the postage service used.

USPS does not disclose the specific actions taken during an open research case, but the final outcome and any necessary follow-up will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

How Long Does a “Package Research Case” Take?

The duration of a “Package Research Case” opened by USPS can vary depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case. Generally, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision and provide a resolution for the missing package .

The specific timeframe for opening a case differs based on the postage service. For Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes, a case can be opened 7 days after the original postage date. Domestic Registered and Ground services require a 14-day waiting period before a case can be opened.

It is important to note that the case itself should be resolved within the 5 to 10-day window once it has been requested. During this time, USPS will investigate the whereabouts of the package, including its last scanned location and any relevant tracking information.

The final tracking update after the research case will be “Package Research Case Closed,” indicating the outcome of the case – either the package is considered missing and eligible for an insurance claim, or the package has been located and is on its way to the destination address.

Note: The durations mentioned above are subject to change and may vary based on USPS policies and regulations.

In conclusion, the “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS indicates that a package has been reported missing and a search case has been initiated to locate the item. If you receive this alert, it means that the sender has not received the package within the expected timeframe and has taken action to find it.

USPS will review the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, typically the recipient, to begin the process of locating the missing package. The duration of the research case varies depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case, usually taking between 5 and 10 days to reach a resolution.

During the research case, USPS investigates the whereabouts of the package and takes necessary actions to locate it. The outcome of the case will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update, which will indicate whether the package is considered missing or if it has been located. If you encounter a “Package Research Case Created” alert, it is important to follow USPS guidelines and wait for the resolution of the research case.

What does the “Package Research Case Created” update mean?

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS indicates that a package has been reported missing and a case for locating the item has been opened. This update is usually triggered by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe. USPS will initiate the process of locating the missing package by reviewing the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, usually the recipient. The sender may be notified of the case through this update, and it can lead to the recipient requesting a refund or replacement item. The duration of the research case will vary depending on the type of postage service used, typically taking between 5 and 10 days to reach a resolution. USPS does not provide specific details about the actions taken during the research case, but the outcome will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

How long does a “Package Research Case” take?

The duration of a “Package Research Case” opened by USPS can vary depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case. Generally, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision and provide a resolution for the missing package. The specific timeframe for opening a case differs based on the postage service. For Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes, a case can be opened 7 days after the original postage date. Domestic Registered and Ground services require a 14-day waiting period before a case can be opened. It is important to note that the case itself should be resolved within the 5 to 10-day window once it has been requested. During this time, USPS will investigate the whereabouts of the package, including its last scanned location and any relevant tracking information. The final tracking update after the research case will be “Package Research Case Closed,” indicating the outcome of the case – either the package is considered missing and eligible for an insurance claim, or the package has been located and is on its way to the destination address.

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USPS Package Research Case Created – Tracking Guide

Whether you’re awaiting a package delivery or have shipped an item that seems to have gone missing, seeing the “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS raises a lot of questions. What exactly does the alert mean? Where is the package when the update is sent and how long will the case take? Let’s take a look…

The “Package Research Case Created” update means USPS has received a report that a package is missing or drastically delayed, and they have opened an investigation to try to locate it. In most scenarios, it is the sender who initiates this by reporting the package hasn’t arrived as expected.

Simply saying, this update means that either you or the sender has reported the package as missing or delayed beyond the expected delivery window. In response, USPS has initiated an internal investigation to track down your item. Think of it as USPS putting on its detective hat to solve the mystery of your missing mail.

While this update may initially seem alarming, it’s important to remember that the USPS takes such cases seriously and is committed to resolving the issue with your shipment as soon as possible.

• When Will You Encounter This Update?

The “Package Research Case Created” update can appear in various situations, including:

• Delayed Delivery : If your package has not been delivered within the expected time frame, the USPS may initiate a research case to investigate the cause of the delay and determine its current location.
• Missing Package : If your package appears to be lost or unaccounted for after a reasonable amount of time has passed since its expected delivery date, a research case may be opened to locate the package.
• Damage or Tampering : In instances where a package shows signs of damage or tampering during transit, the USPS may create a research case to investigate the circumstances and take appropriate action
• The USPS Package Research Process

Once a research case is created, USPS sets its machinery in motion to locate your package. But what does this process actually entail? Let’s break it down, pulling back the curtain on USPS’s investigative process:

• 1. Case Creation and Notification

When you or the sender report a package as missing, USPS’s system generates a unique case number. This number is like a golden ticket – it’s the key that USPS will use to track the progress of your case through their complicated system. You’ll receive the “Package Research Case Created” update, usually via email or on the USPS website, a digital beacon of hope in your inbox.

• 2. Information Gathering

Next, USPS transforms into a data detective, gathering all available information about your package. This includes:

• Tracking History : Every scan your package receives – at post offices, bustling sorting facilities, or during delivery attempts – is meticulously reviewed. It’s like retracing the steps of a lost hiker.
• Physical Description : Details like package size (is it a tiny jewelry box or a massive appliance?), weight, and any unique markings (perhaps that bright red “FRAGILE” stamp) are noted.
• Sender and Recipient Details : Addresses, contact information, and any special delivery instructions (like “Leave with neighbor if no one’s home”) are double-checked. A single digit off in an address can send a package on a very different journey.
• 3. Internal Investigation

Armed with this dossier of information, USPS investigators get to work, like postal Sherlock Holmes:

• Trace the Package’s Journey : Using the tracking history, they’ll identify where the package was last seen. Was it scanned in Seattle but never made it to San Francisco? They’ll check with that Seattle facility.
• Interview Postal Workers : Employees who handled the package or worked in relevant facilities might be questioned. “Did you see a large box with a red ‘FRAGILE’ stamp on Tuesday?”
• Check Undeliverable Mail : If your package couldn’t be delivered for some reason – maybe your building’s access code changed – it might be languishing in USPS’s undeliverable mail section, waiting to be claimed.
• 4. Resolution and Communication

Once USPS has answers, they’ll update the case status. This could be:

• Package Found : Great news! Your package has been located, perhaps misplaced on the wrong truck or delayed at a regional hub. It’s now back on track for delivery, a postal prodigal son returning home.
• Package Declared Lost : If USPS can’t find your package after exhaustive efforts, they’ll officially declare it lost. This is crucial for insurance claims, turning your loss into potential compensation.
• Further Investigation Required : In complex cases, like if your package seems to have embarked on a cross-country detour, USPS might need more time or information.

The USPS typically aims to resolve research cases within 5 to 10 business days, although the duration can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the available information.

• How Long Does This Take?

One of the most common questions is, “How long will I have to wait?” The simple answer is it depends on a few factors:

• When Can You Open a Case?
• Priority Mail, First-Class, or Certified Mail : Wait 7 days after the original mailing date. It’s like giving your package a week to find its way home before calling in the cavalry.
• Registered Mail or Ground Services : Wait 14 days after the original mailing date. These services are like the tortoises of the postal world – slower, but they get there.
• Case Resolution Time

Once a case is opened, USPS aims to resolve it within 5 to 10 business days. That’s their target, a promise to not let your case gather dust. However, complex cases, like a package that’s hopscotched across multiple states, might take longer. During peak seasons (think holidays, when everyone and their uncle is mailing gifts), resolution times can also be extended. It’s the postal equivalent of rush hour traffic.

• After the Case is Closed
• If Your Package is Found

Breathe a sigh of relief! Your package will resume its journey to you, like a traveler who took a scenic detour but finally found the right road. Keep an eye on tracking for new updates; watching its progress can be as satisfying as seeing your favorite team advance in the playoffs.

• If Your Package is Declared Lost

It’s disappointing, like a plot twist in a movie where the hero doesn’t get the treasure. But it’s not the end of the world:

• Insurance Claims : If the package was insured (many USPS services include baseline insurance), you or the sender can file a claim. It’s like postal life insurance, a financial safety net for your shipments.
• Contact the Seller : For online purchases, reach out to the seller. Many have policies for lost items and will offer a refund or replacement. It’s customer service in action, a digital-age safety net.
• Credit Card Protection : Some credit cards offer purchase protection that covers lost items. It’s like having a bodyguard for your purchases. Check your card benefits; you might be pleasantly surprised.
• What Should I Do If the Package Is Still Missing After the Research Case Is Closed?

Sometimes, even the best detectives hit a dead end. If your package is declared lost after the research case closes, don’t despair. There are still avenues to explore:

• File an Insurance Claim : If your package was insured (and many USPS services include basic coverage), file a claim. It’s like having a safety net for your shipments. USPS will guide you through the process.
• Contact the Seller : For online purchases, the seller is your ally. Most have policies for lost items and will offer a refund or replacement. It’s customer service in action, a digital-age safety net.
• Appeal the Decision : If you believe USPS missed something crucial, you can appeal the case closure. Provide any new information you have. It’s like asking for a recount in a close election.
• Consumer Protection Bureau : As a last resort, you can file a complaint with the Consumer Protection Bureau. They’re the postal ombudsmen, advocating for your rights.
• Key takeaways: USPS Package Research Case Created – Tracking Guide
• The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS means that either the sender or recipient has reported a package as missing or significantly delayed, and USPS has initiated an investigation to locate it.
• When a research case is opened, USPS gathers information about the package’s tracking history, physical description, sender, and recipient details to aid in their investigation.
• USPS aims to resolve research cases within 5 to 10 business days, although complex cases or peak periods may take longer. If the package is found, it will resume its journey to the recipient.
• If it is declared lost, the sender or recipient can file an insurance claim or seek a refund or replacement from the seller or credit card company.
• If the package is still missing after the research case is closed, options include filing an insurance claim, contacting the seller, checking for credit card purchase protection, appealing the decision with USPS, or filing a complaint with the Consumer Protection Bureau.
• The “Package Research Case Created” update is a sign that USPS is taking the missing or delayed package seriously and is committed to resolving the issue as soon as possible.

Hey there! I'm Mohsin, lead content writer at Postageabout.com. My journey in the mail and shipping industry started over 10 years ago as a postal clerk. Since then, I've gained experience across multiple countries and companies. Excited to share my knowledge on everything related to postage!

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If you receive an international package that is damaged or has missing contents, you may file a claim immediately, but no later than 60 days from the date of mailing, and you must present the article, container, or packaging and all contents to a local Post Office. Payments for international claims may be payable only to the mailer, regardless of destination country, unless the mailer signs a waiver of rights to payment.

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File a USPS Claim: Domestic

If you sent a package inside the U.S. that was lost, damaged, or had broken or missing pieces and it was covered by insurance, learn how to file an "indemnity claim." Your insurance may have been included with the USPS ® service or purchased separately. Eligible items include:

• Priority Mail Express ® items and other insured mail
• Collect on Delivery (COD) items
• Registered Mail® items with insurance

(For USPS fee or postage refunds, please see Request a USPS Refund: Domestic .)

Alert: If your international package was returned due to COVID-19 and you need a postage refund, click the International Shipments tab above.

How to File a Claim

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NOTE: These instructions do not include all the details and exceptions in the Postal Regulations in the Domestic Mail Manual (DMM ® ). Filing Indemnity Claims (DMM 609)

Step 1: Check Filing Periods

Each mail service has a different filing period. The filing period is based on the mailing date on your receipt and whether your package arrived damaged.

Damaged or Missing Contents

If your item arrives damaged or is missing contents, you may file a claim immediately but must file no later than 60 days after the mailing date.

Lost Mail or Package

If your item does not arrive at all, file a claim in the time period for the service you used.

Filing a Claim for Lost Mail or Packages

All Domestic & APO/FPO/DPO Filing Periods (DMM 609.1.4)

Step 2: Gather Your Documents

Including the right documentation with your claim helps USPS ® approve it more quickly. Save all your evidence documents until your claim is resolved.

Tracking or Label Number

The tracking or label number is found on your online label record, package label, mailing receipt, or sales receipt. Tracking and label numbers are between 13 and 34 characters.

Evidence of Insurance Purchased

Any of these items show evidence of insurance:

• Original mailing receipt issued at the time of mailing
• Outer packaging showing the names and addresses of the sender and the addressee and the proper label showing that the article was sent insured
• Printed electronic online label record or computer printout from the application used to print the label and purchase the insurance

NOTE: USPS may not legally pay compensation for uninsured lost or damaged articles. If your uninsured mail is missing or delayed you may request a Missing Mail Search .

Proof of Value

Proof of value is the cost or value of an item when it was mailed. Any of these can be used to show proof of value:

• Sales receipt
• Paid invoice or paid bill of sale
• Statement of value and/or estimates of repair costs from a reputable dealer
• Credit card billing statement
• Receipt of costs incurred for reconstruction of non-negotiable documents
• Printouts of the online transaction identifying the purchaser and seller, price paid, date of transaction, description of item purchased, and assurance that the transaction status is completed

Proof of Damage

Photos that clearly show the extent of damage will help with your case. For damaged claims, you’ll also need to provide an estimate of the repair costs from a reputable dealer.

• Save the original packaging and everything in the package until your claim is settled.
• Do not throw out damaged items, even after you photograph them.
• Do not reship items that were not damaged. Save them with the damaged items.
• You may be asked to take the entire package to your local Post Office™ facility for inspection.

Step 3: File Your Claim

The fastest and easiest way to file your claim is online. If you cannot file a claim on USPS.com, you can start a claim process by mail. After you file, keep all your evidence documents until the claim is resolved.

Filing Online

To file online, log in to or create your free USPS.com account . Your claim case will be associated with your account.

• You will be able to save your claim to finish later if you cannot complete the form in one session.
• Once you have filed a claim, you can see it in your Claim History.

Start an Online Claim

Filing by Mail

If you’re unable to file a claim online, you can have a Domestic Claim Form mailed to you.

• Call the USPS National Materials Customer Service and request a Domestic Claim PS Form.
• Complete the form and mail it, along with proof of value and evidence of insurance, to the address on the form.

National Materials Customer Service 1-800-332-0317 (requests for paper Domestic Claim Forms only)

Hours of Operation Monday–Friday: 6 AM–6 PM CT Saturdays and Sundays: Closed Federal Holidays: Closed

Claims Decisions

USPS usually sends claims decisions within 5-10 days. You can also check Claim History in your USPS.com account for updates.

• Claim processing times depend on whether an item is damaged or lost.
• Claims for damaged items are usually processed more quickly than lost mail claims.
• Before processing lost mail claims, USPS will first perform a Missing Mail Search .

Approved Claims

• Your claim may be completely approved or approved in part. After your claim is approved, you should receive payment for the claim amount in 7-10 business days.
• USPS does not pay a claim higher than an item’s actual value.

Denied Claims

• Claims can be partially or fully denied.
• Your decision letter will list the reasons for the denial.

Making an Appeal

If your refund was only partially paid or completely denied, you may file an appeal within 30 days of receiving the decision.

First Appeal

• Submit your appeal the same way you submitted the original claim, whether online or by mail. You can start an online claim from your Claim History .
• Focus your appeal on the reasons your claim was denied.
• You may submit new documentation to support your appeal.

Final Appeal

If your appeal is denied, you can file a second appeal within 30 days of the date you received the appeal denial. Follow the same process for final review as for your first appeal.

Appealing Denied Claims FAQs

How to report a missing USPS package, file a help request and submit a missing mail claim

• You can report a missing USPS package by filing a claim at the USPS claims site.
• The sender or receiver of a USPS package can file a claim, but the original purchase receipt must be available.
• You can receive a refund for mail that is lost or never delivered to its final destination as long as the package is insured.
• Collect on Delivery (COD) items, registered mail with insurance, Priority Mail Express, and other insured mail services are eligible for refunds via the USPS claim service. 

When a parcel sent via the United States Postal Service gets lost in transit, customers and businesses can find themselves out of money and valuable goods. Luckily, if the missing mail was sent using one of USPS's insured services, both senders and receivers are eligible to file a claim for a full refund — so long as you meet specific criteria. 

Before you file a claim, however, there are a few other avenues to explore when it comes to locating the missing mail. First, you should track your package to see where your package is. In some rare cases, packages may show "delivered" but could take another 24 hours. 

If it's been over 24 hours and still no package, you've got a few options:

• Complete the USPS help request form: This initates a search at your local post office branch, where they may be able to locate the package and deliver it to you. 
• Submit a missing mail search request: If your missing package isn't located within a week, you can then escalate the issue by submitting a missing mail request via the USPS website.
• File for a refund or insurance claim: If all else fails, you can file a claim for a refund. However, you'll have to have used a USPS insured mail service either purchased separately or included in your Priority Mail Express or Registered Mail service to do this. 

Here's how to report a missing package, file a claim, and submit a refund request with USPS.

How to complete the USPS help request form

1. Visit the Help Request Form site. 

2. Fill in the information requested, including the item's tracking number. You should be able to find the tracking number on the post office receipt or shipping confirmation email. 

3. In the pop-up that appears, fill in the requested fields, including the type of USPS service used, the type and class of mail, the contents, the value, and any additional information you may have. 

4. Once all fields are completed, click "Next." 

5. Fill in the name and address of both the sender of the missing package and the recipient.

6. Select "Next."

7. On the following page, fill in your name and address regardless of whether you're the shipper or receiver.

8. Choose the way you would like USPS to contact you.

9. Select "Finish" to submit your request. The USPS will forward this to your local post office.

How to submit a USPS missing mail search request

If your package hasn't arrived in a week, you can submit a missing mail search request. To do this, you'll need to sign up for a USPS account or log in if you already have one. Once logged in, head to the Missing Mail section of the USPS website with the following information available to initiate your package search: 

• The address of both the sender and recipient 
• The size and type of the box or shipping container
• A full description of the package's contents, including size, brand, model, or other applicable info 
• Identifying information about your package, including the tracking number, Click-N-Ship label receipts, or the mailing date printed on your receipt

1. In the fields provided, fill in the requested information, including your tracking number, the mailing date and service type, whether or not your mail was insured, the address to which the mail should be sent if located, and the mail's contents.

2. At the bottom of the page, read the Missing Mail Search Disclaimer and click the box to confirm you understand and accept the terms as outlined.

3. Click "Verify address" before reviewing the information shown on the following page and clicking "Submit." 

If your package is located, it will be sent to the address you chose while submitting the search request. Here's how to initiate your missing mail search. 

How to file a refund or insurance claim

If you used Priority Mail Express service, you may be able to request a refund . Otherwise, if your mail or package was insured, you can file an insurance claim.

Generally speaking, USPS makes claim decisions within 5 to 10 days. The sender or receiver can file the claim, but it must be submitted within 60 days of the shipping date. It should also be noted that you cannot file a claim until a certain amount of time has passed based on the service you use, per the USPS guidelines .  

1. Before you begin the digital filing process, you'll need to gather your documentation. This includes tracking numbers, proof of insurance, and proof of value. 

Note: How you provide these will differ depending on your package's contents. For instance, you may provide sales receipts or invoices, credit card billing statements, printouts of online transactions. 

2. After logging into your USPS account, you can go to the File a Domestic Claim page and enter your tracking number to begin a search. 

3. Enter the information requested, including package contents, shipper and receiver address, service used, and other details. 

4. Click "Submit."

Related coverage from  Tech Reference :

How to track a usps order, get updates on your expected delivery, and find a missing package, how to track down a missing fedex package by filing a claim, how to track a ups order, leave instructions for delivery, or find a missing package, how to track a fedex order online or contact fedex for delivery issues, how to track your amazon order on a computer or mobile device.

Watch: WATCH: The CMO of American Express explains why advertising has come full circle, and why it's so important to hire diverse talent

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