When using the USPS tracking feature, it commonly gives you updates on where your package is, including an update that says “out for delivery”.
This can be confusing, especially if you haven’t received your package yet, so what does out for delivery mean, and what are some other common delivery questions and issues?
What Does “Out For Delivery Mean” USPS?
The “out for delivery” USPS notification means your package has left the postal office with a courier, and your package should be delivered that day if there aren’t any complications. Typically, USPS delivers packages between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. local time, but actual delivery times vary depending on a courier’s route, the weather, and any traffic complications that may occur.
There are a lot of different factors that play into when your package is delivered, so be sure to read the rest of the article to find out more information!
What Does Out For Delivery Mean?
“Out for delivery” is a tracking notification that USPS sends you.
This tracking notification means that your package has been moved from a local post office or shipping facility onto a truck with a courier in your area.
Typically “out for delivery” means that you can expect your package to be delivered by the end of the day.
How Long Does It Take For My Package To Be Delivered Once It’s Out For Delivery?
Once your package is out for delivery, usually it means that your package will be delivered by 8 p.m. that day.
However, this can vary as USPS does not typically guarantee delivery times unless you’re using a special service like USPS Priority Mail Express.
It isn’t unheard of for there to be issues such as traffic conditions, a route taking longer than expected, or inclement weather that can delay your package being delivered.
Should you receive an “out for delivery” notification and not receive your package by the end of that day, it’s recommended to be patient.
Your package should be delivered the next day once these issues are resolved.
What Time Does USPS Start Delivering?
USPS is a federal organization, so it runs during what’s considered to be normal business hours.
This is usually pretty consistent, although some post offices in smaller towns or outlying areas can run different hours.
Usually, USPS starts delivering packages at the beginning of the day at 7 a.m. and continues delivering packages until 8 p.m. that evening.
What Days Does USPS Deliver?
USPS delivers Monday through Saturday, from 7 am to 8 pm.
However, because USPS is a federal organization, they do not deliver on federal holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Day, or Thanksgiving.
The only day USPS does not deliver on other than federal holidays is Sunday.
You can find a list of all the holidays that USPS does not deliver on here.
Does USPS Offer Refunds If They Don’t Deliver My Package in the Time Frame On the Tracking Feature?
USPS typically does not offer refunds on packages that aren’t delivered on time.
The only exception to this is if you’re using USPS Priority Mail Express, which is the only service USPS offers that guarantees a delivery time.
If you’re using USPS Priority Mail Express and your package isn’t delivered in the guaranteed window, you can request a domestic refund using this link.
If you prefer to speak with someone about your refund in person, you can also go to your local post office and apply for a refund.
Be sure to have your tracking number and shipping information handy, as your local postal worker will need this information to track your package and verify your information.
It is important to note that a refund is different than having insurance on your package.
If you’re using USPS Priority Mail, insurance is included in the flat rate of shipping and can be applied if your package was lost or damaged in transit.
If you’d like to make a claim to receive an insurance payment for a lost or damaged package, you can follow this link.
What If USPS Delivers To the Wrong Address?
Just like any other service, sometimes things go wrong due to human error.
If you receive a notification that your package has been delivered, but it’s not on your doorstep or in your mailbox, you can reach out to your local post office.
Postal workers carry a scanner with them that has a GPS feature, so the supervisor at your local post office should be able to see where the package was scanned and help you recover it.
If the package was not scanned, however, it can be hard to recover unless the person who wrongfully received your package reports it to the Post Office.
To know more about USPS, you can also read our posts on USPS delivery instructions, whether USPS delivers to the door, and if you can pick up a package from USPS.
