Is USPS Tracking Plus Worth It

Is USPS Tracking Plus Worth It? Read Best Answer

ByPaddy Priest USPS Shipping

There are limitations when it comes to tracking USPS mails and packages, you can only get up to 2 years tracking information on a signature package or mail, and up to 120 days on non-signature items.

The United States Postal Service handles majority of the parcel delivery services within the United States, the company has certain features that help customers to monitor the progress of their parcels and when to expect delivery.

While your package is on transit, the tracking information is updated almost at every major point, this tracking information is stored on the USPS server and can be accessed within a particular period.

The USPS Tracking Plus is a feature that was created to help customers have access to longer period of their package or mail tracking history, but is USPS Tracking Plus worth it?

Whether it was a domestic or international product, your access to the tracking history can be extended by using the USPS Tracking Plus.

So, is USPS Tracking Plus worth it? Start reading this post to learn everything you need to know about the USPS Tracking Plus and how to use the service.

What Is USPS Tracking Plus?

USPS Tracking Plus is a feature that gives you access to the tracking history of your package for a longer period, it provides an extended period for accessing the tracking information beyond the standard 120 days for non-signature items or 2 years for signature items.

With USPS Tracking Plus, you can view the detailed tracking history of your package for an extended timeframe, giving you the ability to track its progress and monitor any updates or changes that may have occurred during its journey. This feature is particularly useful if you need to review the tracking information for a package that was sent or received several months ago.

To utilize USPS Tracking Plus, you can visit the USPS website and enter the tracking number of your package in the tracking tool. If the tracking information for your package is available and within the extended access period, you’ll be able to view the detailed tracking history on the USPS website.

What Does USPS Tracking Plus Do?

The USPS Tracking Plus service makes it possible for you to extend your access to a package’s tracking history, it gives you additional access period from 6 months to 10 years.

So, let’s say you sent or received a package a while ago, and you need to review its tracking history. USPS Tracking Plus comes to the rescue! By using this feature on the USPS website, you can enter the tracking number of the package and get an extended view of its journey.

With USPS Tracking Plus, you can see the various checkpoints and updates along the way, giving you a better understanding of where your package has been and when it reached specific locations. This feature is particularly handy if you need to reference the tracking information for a package that was sent or received several months ago.

The extended access to tracking history provided by USPS Tracking Plus ensures that you have a comprehensive view of your package’s progress, which can be beneficial for various reasons. It allows you to track the delivery process more effectively, particularly if there were any delays or issues during transit. Plus, it gives you peace of mind by offering an in-depth record of the package’s movement.

Remember, USPS Tracking Plus is specifically for accessing and reviewing the tracking history on the USPS website. It doesn’t provide additional real-time tracking updates or notifications like the regular USPS tracking service. But it’s a great resource for reviewing past package journeys and gathering valuable information about their delivery status.

Is USPS Tracking Plus Worth It?

The USPS Tracking Plus feature is worth using especially if the package tracking history is to be used for an important purpose. Factors like extended tracking history, package importance, as well as personal preference all make the USPS tracking Plus worth spending on.
However, the value of USPS Tracking Plus also depends on your specific needs and preferences. Let’s consider the three factors to help you determine if it’s worth it for you:

  • Extended Tracking History: If you often find yourself needing to review the tracking history of packages beyond the standard 120-day period, USPS Tracking Plus can be quite valuable. It allows you to access and view detailed tracking information for a longer timeframe, which can be beneficial for record-keeping or reference purposes.
  • Package Importance: If you’re dealing with time-sensitive or valuable packages, having access to an extended tracking history can provide peace of mind. You can closely monitor the progress of your package and have a better understanding of its whereabouts, especially if there are any delays or issues during transit. This added visibility can be particularly valuable for important documents, high-value items, or time-critical shipments.
  • Personal Preference: Some individuals simply appreciate having comprehensive tracking information readily available. If you like being able to review the complete journey of your packages and enjoy the convenience of accessing extended tracking history, USPS Tracking Plus can enhance your overall tracking experience.

How Does USPS Tracking Plus Work?

USPS Tracking Plus works by extending your access to the tracking history of a package on the USPS website. Here’s how it works:

  • Uses Tracking Number: When you send or receive a package using a USPS service that supports tracking, you will be provided with a tracking number. This unique number is associated with your package and allows you to track its progress.
  • Available On USPS Website: To utilize USPS Tracking Plus, you need to visit the USPS website on your computer or mobile device.
  • Tracking Tool: Make use of the “Search or Track Packages” option to track your package or mail, insert the tracking number into the search box.
  • Tracking Details: The USPS tracking system will retrieve the tracking information associated with your package. It will display a summary of the latest tracking events, such as when the package was accepted, departed a facility, arrived at a sorting center, or was delivered.
  • Extended Access: With USPS Tracking Plus, you’ll have the option to extend your access to the tracking history beyond the standard 120-day or 2 years period. If your package falls within the extended access timeframe, you’ll be able to view the detailed tracking history.
  • Viewing Tracking History: Once you access the tracking details, you can scroll through the timeline to see the different tracking events and updates that occurred during the package’s journey. This extended access period allows you to review the package’s progress over a more extended period, providing a comprehensive view of its transit history.

How To Use USPS Tracking Plus

Using USPS Tracking Plus is quite simple! Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

  • Start by visiting the USPS website, you can access it from your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
  • Look for the tracking tool at the center of the page under the “Search or Track Packages” heading.
  • Retrieve the tracking number associated with your package and enter the tracking number into the tracking tool where you have “Search USPS.com or Enter Tracking Number”.
  • After entering the tracking number, click on the track icon. The USPS tracking system will then retrieve the latest tracking information for your package.
  • Initially, you’ll see a summary of the most recent tracking events related to your package. This includes information such as when the package was accepted, departed a facility, arrived at a sorting center, or was delivered.
  • If the service is available for your package, you will see the “USPS Tracking Plus Available” notice, click on the red arrow beside it to extend your access.
  • Select the additional time length you want to extend the tracking history, click the “Select for purchase” button when done.
  • Tab the “Confirm Selection” button to purchase the service and you will be redirected to where you can login or create a new USPS account to process your order and make payment.
  • After you are logged in, tap on “Add to Cart” button and press the “Check out” button to proceed and complete your order.
  • Once you’ve extended your access to the tracking history, go back to track that particular package and you’ll be able to view the detailed tracking events and updates that occurred during the package’s journey. Scroll through the timeline to see the various checkpoints and locations it passed through.

That’s it! By following these steps, you can use USPS Tracking Plus to track your packages and access extended tracking history beyond the standard period.

Is USPS Tracking Plus Worth It

What Is The Benefit Of USPS Tracking Plus?

The USPS Tracking Plus service comes with a few benefits which might be useful to you depending on what you need, below are the benefits you’ll get by purchasing the service:

  • USPS Tracking Plus allows you to view the detailed tracking history of your package beyond the standard 120-day or 2 year period. This is particularly useful if you need to reference or review the tracking information for a package that was sent or received several months ago. It provides an extended timeframe to track the package’s progress and understand its journey.
  • The ability to access extended tracking history can be beneficial for record-keeping purposes. If you need to keep a record of your package’s transit details for personal or business reasons, USPS Tracking Plus allows you to conveniently retrieve the information from the USPS website. It serves as a useful reference in case you need to revisit the package’s journey in the future.
    USPS Tracking Plus offers an added layer of peace of mind, especially for time-sensitive or valuable packages. By being able to review the complete tracking history, you can closely monitor the progress of your package and have a better understanding of its whereabouts. This increased visibility helps you stay informed and eases any concerns you may have about the delivery process.
  • For individuals who appreciate having comprehensive tracking information readily available, USPS Tracking Plus enhances the overall tracking experience. It allows you to gather a wealth of data about your package’s journey, including specific locations, dates, and times of various tracking events. This comprehensive tracking experience can be satisfying for those who like to stay informed and closely follow the progress of their packages
  • USPS Tracking Plus provides a trustworthy and accurate source of evidence to prove that a package or mail item was delivered successfully. The detailed tracking history serves as solid documentation of the package’s journey, including important checkpoints and delivery confirmation. This evidence can be crucial in various situations where proof of delivery is required.
  • The tracking history obtained through USPS Tracking Plus can be tendered as evidence in a court of law. When disputes arise regarding delivery or delivery attempts, presenting the comprehensive tracking information can strengthen your case. The authenticity and reliability of USPS as a recognized source of tracking data add credibility to the evidence.
  • The data provided by USPS Tracking Plus is extremely useful when filing claims or resolving disputes related to packages or mail items. Whether it’s a damaged package, a lost item, or a dispute about delivery attempts, the detailed tracking history acts as a valuable resource. It enables you to provide concrete evidence of the package’s movement and assists in expediting the claims process.
  • The tracking information obtained through USPS Tracking Plus is accepted universally. Whether you need to present it to insurance companies, businesses, or other organizations, the data is recognized and acknowledged as a legitimate source. This universal acceptance ensures that the tracking history carries weight and can be used effectively in various contexts.

USPS Tracking Plus Cost

The USPS Tracking Plus cost depends on the retention period and other factors, below is a breakdown of the USPS tracking plus cost:

  • 6 months retention period for just scan costs $0.99.
  • 1 year retention period for only scan costs $1.20.
  • 3 years retention period only scan costs $1.50, plus signature retention costs $3.75.
  • 5 years retention period only scan costs $2, plus signature retention costs $4.75.
  • 7 years retention period only scan costs $3, plus signature retention costs $5.75.
  • 10 years retention period only scan costs $4.20, plus signature retention costs $6.75.
  • Each retrieved report of archive tracking statement is $8.75.
  • Each retrieved report of archive signature letter is $15.75.

Does USPS Tracking Plus Show The Delivery Address?

No, USPS Tracking Plus does not typically display the delivery address. The tracking information provided through USPS Tracking Plus focuses primarily on the package’s movement and tracking events during its transit. It includes details such as acceptance at the origin, sorting, departure from facilities, and delivery confirmation.

While the tracking details may indicate the location where the package was delivered, it typically does not explicitly show the recipient’s specific delivery address. The tracking information is primarily intended to provide updates on the package’s progress and delivery status rather than revealing sensitive recipient information.

Should I Get USPS Tracking Plus?

If you have an important need for the tracking history of your package either for record keeping purpose, settling of dispute and claims, or to present it somewhere, then you should get the USPS tracking Plus.

Apart from that, some individuals simply enjoy having access to a complete tracking history. If you appreciate being able to review the entire journey of your packages and find it satisfying to have comprehensive tracking information readily available, USPS Tracking Plus might be worth considering.

USPS Tracking Plus Free

USPS Tracking Plus is not a free service, payment is made for the service on each tracking number. Prices for USPS tracking services range from $0.99 to $15.75, depending on the specific features and options selected.