If you run an online store or sell on marketplaces like Shopify, Etsy, or eBay, shipping can get complicated. One of the most common questions from customers—and sellers—is:
Can you track with Priority Mail?
Yes, you can track Priority Mail . And it’s one of the most useful shipping features USPS offers to eCommerce sellers.
In this guide, we’ll explain exactly how USPS Priority Mail tracking works, how to use it, and what to do if something goes wrong. Whether you’re shipping 100 or 2,000 orders a month, this article will help you ship smarter, save time, and improve the delivery experience for your customers.
What Is USPS Priority Mail?
USPS Priority Mail is a fast, affordable postal service for packages going anywhere in the United States. It’s designed for parcels weighing up to 70 pounds, and it usually arrives in 1 to 3 business days, depending on the distance.
You can ship packages with Priority Mail in two ways:
- Flat Rate: One price, any weight (up to 70 lbs), any U.S. destination
- Package-based pricing: Based on package weight and shipping zone
Priority Mail also includes:
- USPS Tracking®
- Free package pickup at your home or business
- Up to $100 of insurance with most shipments
- No extra charges for residential delivery, Saturday delivery, or fuel surcharges
If you’re a Shopify seller shipping handmade products, or an Etsy seller fulfilling from home, Priority Mail delivery offers fast and flexible options that scale with your store. Making use of a shipping software like Easyship can help you assess delivery times and prices across different USPS services, helping you choose the one that’s best for you.
Does Priority Mail Include Tracking?
Yes. USPS Priority Mail includes tracking at no extra charge. Every package gets a tracking number you can share with your customer to monitor its movement from pickup to final delivery.
Tracking data is available in real time and can be accessed via:
- The USPS website
- The USPS mobile app
- Text message (send your tracking number to 28777)
- Your eCommerce platform dashboard (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce, Etsy)
- Shipping software like Easyship
Whether you drop off your package at a local Post Office or use Click-N-Ship®, tracking is automatically created when you print a shipping label.
Is USPS Priority Mail Express Reliable?
Yes—USPS Priority Mail Express is the most reliable shipping service USPS offers for domestic delivery. It guarantees overnight to 2-day delivery, 365 days a year, including Sundays and holidays in most areas.
Here’s why online sellers trust Priority Mail Express:
- Money-back guarantee if the package isn’t delivered on time
- Full USPS tracking from origin to destination
- Up to $100 insurance included, with additional coverage available
- Signature confirmation included at no extra cost
It’s best used when timing is critical—like for customer gifts, last-minute orders, or high-value items that need to arrive the next day.
How to Track a Priority Mail Package
Here are four easy ways to check the delivery status of a Priority Mail package:
Option 1: USPS Website
- Go to USPS.com
- Click “Track a Package”
- Enter your tracking number in the search bar
- View tracking updates and expected delivery window
Option 2: Mobile App
- Download the USPS Mobile app (iOS or Android)
- Tap “Track”
- Enter your tracking number for real-time updates
Option 3: Text Message
- Text your USPS tracking number to 28777
- Receive a status update via SMS
Option 4: eCommerce Platform
- Open the order in your Easyship, Shopify, Wix, or WooCommerce dashboard
- Look under the shipping section for USPS tracking information
These methods reduce WISMO (“Where is my order?”) emails and help improve customer satisfaction.
Where to Find Your USPS Tracking Number
If you’re the sender, your USPS tracking number can be found in several places:
| Where You Got It From |
Where to Look |
| Post Office |
Your post office shipping receipt |
| Click-N-Ship |
Confirmation email from USPS |
| eCommerce Platform |
Order details or customer email |
| Shipping Label |
The bottom peel-off portion |
If a customer can’t find their number, resend it through your platform or shipping software. This small step can prevent delivery confusion and refund requests.
How Fast is Priority Mail?
USPS Priority Mail typically delivers within 1 to 3 business days, depending on:
- Where you're shipping from and to (closer = faster)
- The time of day you drop off the package
- Weather, holidays, or USPS network volume
USPS tracking gives you insight into your shipment’s journey. Here are common statuses:
| Status |
Meaning |
| Accepted |
USPS received your package |
| In Transit |
Package is moving through USPS network |
| Out for Delivery |
Package is on the truck for final delivery |
| Delivered |
Package has been delivered |
| Notice Left |
Delivery attempt made; package may need pickup |
| Forwarded |
Package redirected to a new address |
If the status stays at "In Transit" for too long, the package may not have scanned properly, or it could be delayed due to volume or weather.
What If USPS Tracking Isn’t Updating?
If your tracking information hasn’t changed for a day or two, don’t panic. Here's what you can do:
- Wait 24–48 hours for the first scan after drop-off
- Check the tracking number for errors
- Make sure the barcode was printed clearly
- Use USPS’s Missing Mail tool after 7 days
Remember, during holidays or high-volume periods, even packages shipped via Priority Mail can experience tracking delays. If you use a shipping platform like Easyship, the tracking process can be a bit more smooth, ensuring that you receive timely updates.
Which USPS Services Include Tracking?
Not every USPS class of mail includes tracking. Here’s a helpful chart on USPS tracking:
| USPS Service |
Includes Tracking? |
| Priority Mail |
âś… Yes |
| Priority Mail Express |
âś… Yes |
| Priority Mail International |
âś… Yes (to most destinations) |
| First-Class Mail |
❌ No (add-on available) |
| First-Class Package |
âś… Yes |
| Marketing Mail |
❌ No |
| Media Mail |
âś… Yes |
| Retail Ground |
âś… Yes |
Tracking can be added to some services for a small fee, but most eCommerce sellers prefer to stick with services that include it by default.
Final Thoughts
So, can you track with Priority Mail? Absolutely.
And if you're an eCommerce business owner, you should.
USPS Priority Mail gives you the speed, tracking, and reliability you need — without overcomplicating your shipping process or budget. With tools like free package pickup, real-time tracking updates, and insurance, it’s a smart solution for keeping your shipping on track and your customers happy.
USPS Priority Mail FAQs for Online Sellers
What is USPS Next Day Delivery and how does it work?
USPS Next Day Delivery is an overnight shipping service that guarantees next-business-day delivery for packages under 20 lbs. It’s ideal for eCommerce sellers who need fast, affordable, and reliable domestic shipping.
How is USPS Next Day Delivery different from Priority Mail Express?
While USPS Next Day Delivery is a form of Priority Mail Express, it focuses specifically on streamlined, next-business-day shipping within a 150-mile radius—making it more predictable and cost-effective for high-volume eCommerce use.
How much does USPS Next Day Delivery cost?
Pricing for USPS Next Day Delivery starts at $28.75 for flat rate envelopes and varies based on weight and zone—typically ranging up to $75+. Businesses using commercial rates through platforms like Easyship can save up to 20%.
Can I place a delivery hold or redirect a package?
Yes. You can request a delivery hold or reroute through the USPS website or at your local post office, as long as the package hasn’t reached final delivery.