Imagine this: you're expecting a package. Maybe it's a birthday gift, a new gadget, or something you bought on impulse at 2 a.m. Now, instead of checking your mailbox five times a day or refreshing the tracking page non-stop, wouldn’t it be easier if the updates just came to you?
Good news — they can! With USPS email notifications, your tracking info, delivery warnings, and arrival alerts can all be delivered straight to your inbox. It's like getting a heads-up from your friendly neighborhood mail carrier.
What Are USPS Email Notifications?
They’re messages sent to your email that keep you in the loop about your mail and packages. Once set up, you’ll get:
- Confirmation that your package was shipped
- Updates as your mail moves through the system
- Alerts when your package is out for delivery
- Notification that your item was delivered
Pretty handy, right?
Why You’ll Love It
Let’s face it — tracking packages manually is annoying. Email alerts take away the guesswork and the stress. Here’s why they’re awesome:
- No more refreshing tracking pages — updates come to you.
- No missed deliveries — you’ll know when to expect your package.
- They’re free — and easy to set up!
How to Set Up Email Notifications
Time to dive in! We’ll walk you through how to set up email tracking updates in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Track a Package
First things first — you need a tracking number. This usually comes from the seller when you buy something online. You can also get it from the mailing receipt if you shipped the item yourself.
Go to the USPS Tracking tool on your web browser. Enter your tracking number into the box and hit “Track”.
Step 2: Sign Up for Updates
Once the tracking info appears, you’ll see an option that says “Get Updates” or “Text & Email Updates”.
Click it. A screen will pop up with different options.
Step 3: Choose Email Notifications
Select the checkbox for email. You'll enter your email address, and then pick which alerts you’d like to get. Choices may include:
- Expected Delivery Date
- Arrival at USPS Facility
- Out for Delivery
- Delivered
You can pick one, a few, or all of them. It’s entirely up to you!
Step 4: Confirm and Done!
Hit the submit button. That’s it! You’ll start receiving updates right in your inbox as your package makes its way to you.
Using a USPS Account for Extra Features
Want even more control and smarter notifications? Creating a free USPS.com account unlocks extra goodies like Informed Delivery.
What Is Informed Delivery?
It’s a super cool feature. Not only does it show you packages coming your way, but it also sends daily previews of regular mail (like letters and cards) arriving soon — complete with scanned images of the envelopes.
How to Sign Up:
- Go to USPS.com
- Click on “Sign In” and choose “Create an Account”
- Fill in your name, address, and other info
- Verify your identity (they just want to make sure you're really you)
Once set up, go to the “My USPS” or “Informed Delivery” dashboard. Here you can:
- See all packages headed your way
- Manage alerts and notifications
- Track returns and outgoing mail
All Alerted Up: What to Expect from USPS Emails
The look of your emails may vary, but they’ll include:
- Tracking number
- Item status (“Out for Delivery!” or “Delivered!” are common)
- Date and time stamps
- Recipient address (for your reference)
You can even click the links inside your emails to go to the full tracking page anytime.
Tips for Email Notification Success
Here are some quick tips to make your email notifications even better:
- Double-check your email address — make sure it’s typed correctly when signing up
- Check your spam folder if you don’t see emails
- Add USPS to your safe senders list so updates land in your inbox
- Use a strong, clear subject filter if you get tons of emails (like “USPS Alert”)
Great for Businesses, Too
If you run a small business, these alerts are gold. You’ll know when customers get their orders. You can handle issues faster. And you'll look more professional when you have prompt tracking info to share.
Can I Stop Notifications Later?
Absolutely. If your inbox is feeling crowded or your package has arrived safely, you can stop the emails anytime.
Just go back to the USPS tracking page, enter your number, and select “Remove Updates” from the email settings. Easy peasy.
Bonus: Text Message Alerts!
Want double the backup? You can also sign up for text notifications right alongside email alerts. Just check both boxes when entering your info — one for email, one for text.
Texts are great for on-the-go updates when you can't check your inbox.
Final Thoughts
Waiting for packages doesn’t have to be a mystery. With USPS email notifications, you stay in the loop without lifting a finger… ok, maybe just a few clicks!
No more anxiously lurking by your front door. No missed deliveries. Just emails, rolling in with the details you need.
Set it and forget it. Your packages are on their way, and now, you're finally in the know. 👍
So go ahead, give it a try the next time you order something online. You’ll wonder how you ever lived without it.