What is USPS Redelivery? (how it works + other FAQs)
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It’s easy to miss package deliveries. Whether you’re on a video call or have to grab a midday coffee, sometimes you just can’t catch up with your postman. In some cases, they will leave the package, but in other cases, they may not.
If this happens, you need to understand USPS’ redelivery policies and services. In this article, we’ll explain what a redelivery is, why it happens, and how to schedule a redelivery!
What is USPS Redelivery in 2022?
USPS redelivery occurs when a package is undeliverable. Depending on the type of mail and the delivery location, the mail carrier may automatically attempt to redelive it 1 or 2 times. In other cases, the postman leaves PS 3849 – We ReDeliver for You!, a notice on how to schedule a redelivery for 2022.
To learn more about why redeliveries happen and how to schedule them, check out our article for more helpful facts!
What is USPS Redelivery?
There are a number of reasons why a message may not be delivered on the first attempt. These include:
- Signature required or postage and/or fees required
- Item does not fit in mail container
- Items cannot be placed in a safe place
In some cases, the postman will automatically attempt redelivery the next business day.
In other cases, the postman will leave PS Form 3849 (we redel it for you!). This form provides recipients with instructions on how to schedule a redelivery.
Luckily, scheduling a redelivery is free!
Where is USPS redelivery available?
USPS offers redelivery services in many, but not all, areas of the United States.
To check availability in your region, enter your contact information (name, address, phone number, and email address) on the Redelivery Service page and click Check Availability.
If redelivery is not available in your area (or if you prefer to pick up the package in person) then you can pick it up at the post office marked on We ReDeliver for You! form.
How many times will USPS try to deliver the package?
USPS will attempt to deliver 1 or 2 times, depending on the carrier’s knowledge of the recipient.
For example, if the carrier knows that the recipient is not usually nearby to accept the package, they will try to deliver it once and leave us to redeliver it for you! The form after the first attempt.
On the other hand, if the carrier knows the recipient is usually nearby, they may make a second attempt without leaving We ReDeliver for You! formed on the first try.
When the carrier is unsure, a form is left after the first attempt and only redelivered at the customer’s request.
After 1 or 2 unsuccessful delivery attempts, packages will be held for 15 days after the first delivery attempt. If it is not collected within that time period, it will be returned to the sender.
How does USPS redelivery work with Priority Mail Express?
USPS handles Priority Mail Express redelivery differently than redelivery for other mail classes.
If the first delivery attempt for a Priority Mail Express package is unsuccessful, the postman will leave a PS Form 3849 (We redel it for you!)
A second PS Form 3849 will be left on the 3rd calendar day after the first delivery if the recipient does not schedule redelivery or does not pick up at the post office.
Additionally, if the customer does not pick up the item from the post office or arrange for redelivery by the close of business 5 calendar days, the item will be returned to the sender.
How do I schedule a USPS redelivery?
You can schedule a redelivery online using your package’s tracking number or the barcode number displayed on the back of We ReDeliver for You! form.
After entering this information, choose when you would like the package to be redelivered and make sure you can receive it at the specified time.
Redeliveries can be scheduled online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
When can a USPS redelivery be scheduled?
You can schedule package redelivery almost any day that is convenient for you. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
First, if you would like to apply for same-day redelivery, you will need to submit your application by 2AM Monday through Saturday.
Next, redelivered items will be delivered on the requested date, but customers cannot request a specific time, so be sure to choose a date when you know you will be available throughout the day.
You can choose a redelivery date until the date the item is scheduled to be returned to the sender (you can find this date on the front of the We Redelive For You! form).
If you go this route, it is important to remember that arrangements must be notified in advance, not on the date the item is returned to the sender.
Also, if redelivery is attempted on the last day before it is scheduled to be returned to the sender and it is undeliverable, it will still be returned.
Why can’t my package be redelivered?
There are several reasons why you cannot schedule a redelivery.
For example, if the tracking number address you entered does not match the original shipping address, you will not be able to schedule.
If a redelivery request for the package already exists, you will also not be able to schedule it.
Finally, if the package is returned to the sender and is no longer available for redelivery, you will not be able to schedule it.
To learn more, you can also read our post on USPS delivery dates, USPS delivery to the wrong address, and whether USPS delivers to your door.
in conclusion
Missed deliveries do happen, but luckily USPS is committed to making sure you receive your package, which can be done through a redelivery system.
With this system, deliveries are usually attempted automatically. If the delivery is still unsuccessful, the postman will leave a form that allows the customer to schedule the delivery at the most convenient time.
