Understanding Certified Mail Tracking Updates

Getting Started

This article explains how LetterStream handles Certified Mail delivery, what each tracking status means, and how to interpret USPS updates in your LetterStream account. While LetterStream guarantees processing within two business days, final delivery is managed by the USPS.

In This Article

• Mail-Out Guarantee vs. USPS Delivery
• How to Track Certified Mail
• Certified Mail Status Definitions
• Understanding Status Box Colors

Mail-Out Guarantee vs. USPS Delivery

• LetterStream Processing: Mail is processed and handed off to the USPS within two business days.
• Delivery Disclaimer: USPS is responsible for the final delivery. LetterStream cannot guarantee their delivery timeframes or successful delivery.
• Tracking Provided: Real-time USPS tracking updates are available for each Certified Mail letter that is sent.

How to Track Certified Mail

• If your Certified Mail shows a status of "Origin Acceptance", this means the USPS has received the item.
• For questions about tracking updates, delivery, or signatures, contact the USPS directly.

Certified Mail Status Definitions

• Mailed: The letter has been printed, inserted, sealed, and provided to the USPS, and their delivery processes have started.
• In Transit: The USPS has possession of the mailpiece. Delivery timelines are now under USPS control.
• Delivery Attempted: USPS tried to deliver the item and likely left a notice with instructions for retrieval.
• Unclaimed By Recipient: The recipient did not retrieve the item after a delivery attempt.
• Refused By Recipient: The recipient declined to accept or sign for the mail. It is returned to sender.
• Returned To Sender: The item was undeliverable (e.g., bad address or recipient moved).
• Delivered: The item was successfully delivered. If a signature service was requested, it will be viewable via the "view" link within your account a few days after delivery.
• Forwarded: The mail was redirected by USPS. The new destination is typically not disclosed by USPS.

Understanding Status Box Colors

Within your LetterStream account, each recipient has three status boxes with color codes indicating mail progress:

• Light Green: Recent successful status update
• Yellow: Unclaimed or business closed
• Orange: Out for delivery or delivery attempted
• Violet: Forwarded
• Pink: Returned to sender
• Dark Green: Returned (second box turns pink)
• Red: Refused (second box turns pink)
• White: No new USPS updates

These same color codes appear in the tracking status bar at the top of the page.