The United States Postal Service website is your one-stop destination for mailing, shipping, and postal services. Whether you need to send a package across the country, forward your mail, track a package, or look up a ZIP code, USPS offers tools and services designed to make postal tasks simple and convenient. This guide walks you through everything available on the site so you can get the most out of your visit.
Shipping and Mailing Services
One of the primary reasons visitors go to USPS is to ship packages and mail items. The site makes it easy to prepare shipments without leaving home.
Create and Print Shipping Labels
You can create shipping labels directly on USPS for any domestic or international shipment. Simply enter the recipient’s address, select your service type, and print the label at home. This saves time and lets you drop off your package at any USPS location or schedule a pickup from your home.
Choose Your Shipping Speed
USPS.com lets you compare different mailing options to find what works best for your needs:
Priority Mail Express: Fastest option with guaranteed delivery times
Priority Mail: Standard domestic shipping with reliable timelines
First Class Mail: Budget-friendly option for letters and small packages
Media Mail: Economical choice for books and educational materials
Ground Advantage: Cost-effective option for larger packages
International Mail: Services for sending items outside the United States
The site displays prices and estimated delivery dates for each option, helping you make an informed choice.
Mail Forwarding and Address Services
Moving to a new address? USPS.com handles address changes and mail forwarding.
Change Your Address Online
File a Change of Address (COA) request through USPS.com to redirect your mail to a new location. This service notifies businesses and organizations of your move, ensuring you don’t miss important mail. You can set up temporary or permanent forwarding for a small fee.
Look Up ZIP Codes and Service Areas
The ZIP Code Lookup tool on USPS.com helps you find the correct ZIP code for any address. This ensures your mail and packages arrive on time without delays.
Package Tracking and Delivery Updates
Once you’ve shipped a package, USPS.com keeps you informed every step of the way.
Track Your Shipments in Real Time
Enter your tracking number on the site to see exactly where your package is. You’ll receive updates on pickup, sorting, transit, and delivery status. Tracking information updates regularly, so you always know when to expect your delivery.
Receive Delivery Notifications
Sign up for text or email alerts to get notified when packages arrive or require action. This feature is especially helpful if you’re not always home when deliveries occur.
Insurance and Liability Coverage
Protecting valuable items during shipping is simple on USPS.com.
Add Insurance to Your Shipment
When creating a shipping label, you can add insurance coverage for an additional fee. This protects your package against loss or damage during transit. USPS.com shows you the insurance cost upfront before you purchase.
File a Claim for Damaged or Lost Items
If a package arrives damaged or goes missing, USPS.com allows you to file a claim. You’ll need your tracking number and documentation of the issue. The site guides you through the process step by step.
Mailbox and Delivery Options
USPS.com offers flexible delivery choices to fit your lifestyle.
Schedule Package Pickups
Instead of going to the post office, you can request a free pickup from your home or business. Enter your address and preferred pickup time on USPS.com, and a carrier will collect your packages.
Hold Mail for Later Delivery
Going on vacation or away from home? Use the Hold Mail service on USPS.com to pause mail delivery temporarily. Your mail will be held at your local post office until you request delivery to resume.
Informed Delivery
This free service shows you images of incoming mail and packages before they arrive. Check USPS.com daily to see what’s coming, which helps you plan for deliveries and spot suspicious mail.
Purchasing Postage and Supplies
USPS.com is also a marketplace for postal supplies and services.
Buy Stamps and Postage
Purchase Forever Stamps, postcard stamps, and other denominations directly from the site. You can order them online and have them delivered to your home, eliminating trips to the post office.
Order Shipping Supplies
USPS.com offers free and paid shipping boxes, envelopes, and packing materials. Many Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express boxes are available free of charge. Simply order what you need, and it will be delivered to your address.
Finding Your Local Post Office
Need to visit a post office in person? USPS.com includes a location finder tool.
Search for Nearby Locations
Enter your address or ZIP code to find the nearest post office. The results show hours of operation, services available, and directions. Some locations also offer extended hours or special services like passport processing.
Business Services
If you run a small business, USPS.com has dedicated tools to help you manage shipping at scale.
Batch Shipping and Discounts
Business customers can access discounted rates for high-volume shipping. USPS.com allows you to upload multiple addresses and create bulk shipping labels, saving time and money.
Business Account Management
Set up a USPS business account on the site to track spending, manage multiple users, and access detailed reporting on your shipments.
Help and Customer Support
USPS.com includes a comprehensive help section for common questions and issues.
Knowledge Base and FAQs
Browse answers to frequently asked questions about shipping, delivery, pricing, and services. The site’s help section covers most common concerns without requiring you to contact customer service.
Contact Customer Service
If you can’t find an answer, USPS.com provides options to chat with a representative, call, or submit a support request. Response times vary depending on the method you choose.
Conclusion
USPS.com is a comprehensive platform that handles nearly every postal need—from shipping packages and tracking deliveries to forwarding mail and purchasing supplies. Whether you’re sending a single letter or managing business shipments, the site provides straightforward tools and clear information to help you complete your tasks efficiently. Start by exploring the service that matches your immediate need, and you’ll quickly discover how USPS.com can simplify your mailing and shipping routine.
Ready to learn more? Check out our guides on how to ship packages affordably, understanding delivery times, and maximizing postal services for your business.