What Does “Tendered to USPS” Mean? (A Comprehensive Guide)

Have you ever shipped a package only to find that the tracking information says “tendered to USPS”? If so, you may be wondering what this status means and when your item will arrive. This comprehensive guide will explain in detail what it means for an item to be tendered to USPS and how long it takes for a package to reach its final destination. So, read on for all the details!

What Does “Tendered to USPS” Mean?

When a package is tendered to USPS, it simply means that the package has already passed through any initial carriers and is now in the hands of the United States Postal Service. Therefore, it is now up to them to take the package on its final journey and deliver it to its destination.

You can receive this status update even if you’re expecting a package from a private carrier, such as FedEx, UPS, or DHL. This is because big carriers will hand off their last-mile delivery responsibility to the USPS. Hence why you’d be receiving a “Tendered to USPS” update even though you were expecting the package from another carrier. 

However, there’s absolutely no need to worry – your package is safe and on the way.

Why Is My Package Tendered to USPS?

When paying for shipping, it’s natural to expect your package to be handled entirely by one carrier. After all, who wouldn’t want their package to be delivered as quickly and as safely as possible? 

Well, you might be surprised to find out that this practice of ‘handing off’ packages is quite common in the shipping world. And it’s not a bad thing! In fact, it helps make shipping more efficient and reliable.

You must have heard of or used Economy Ground Shipping or SurePost services yourself at least once. Both of these services are partnerships between USPS and private carriers such as FedEx and UPS, respectively. These services were created to combine the services of both carriers and deliver packages to their destinations more cost-effectively. 

Essentially, this process of delegating the work lets the private carriers do what they’re best at (express shipping) while USPS picks up the slack and handles the last-mile delivery. 

Since USPS has more resources and manpower when it comes to delivering individual packages, it’s only right that they handle the last-mile delivery. Plus, tendered delivery services are typically cheaper for private carriers. That way, each party benefits from the partnership, and you get your package delivered to its final destination faster, with fewer hiccups along the way.

Can You Track a Package Tendered to USPS?

Yes, you will be able to track your package even after it’s been tendered to USPS. Although the way you track the package may vary slightly depending on the situation.

In some cases, you will be able to track the package just like you normally would by entering the tracking number you got from the initial carrier. USPS will update the tracking information and let you know where your package is during its journey, including when it has been delivered or is out for delivery. 

There’s also a possibility that you’ll receive a new tracking number from USPS once the package has been tendered to them. In that case, you’ll have to enter the new tracking number into USPS’s system to track your package.

How Long Does It Take for a Package Tendered to USPS to Arrive?

The average delivery time for a package tendered to USPS is two days, though it can vary depending on the circumstances. Generally, two days is enough time for USPS to receive the package and then deliver it to its final destination. 

However, delivery times may take longer if you live in a remote location or during peak season. This is because USPS may have to cover a greater distance or face more delivery requests during peak season, both of which can slow down the delivery process. 

What Do I Do If My Tracking Status Hasn’t Changed in Days?

If you’re tracking your package and the status has stayed the same for a few days, don’t panic – it doesn’t necessarily mean something’s wrong. After all, it does take time for carriers to update tracking information. Also, who knows, your package may have been delivered while the tracking information was still stuck at ‘Tendered to USPS’. 

However, if your package has been tendered to USPS and its status hasn’t changed for more than three days, it’s better to contact the initial carrier and inquire about the whereabouts of your package. 

Since your initial carrier is fully responsible for your package until it has been tendered to USPS, they will be able to provide you with better insights. Plus, they can refer you to USPS if they deem it necessary. In other words, they are the ones that should be able to solve any issues that may come up along the way. 

What Should I Do When I Receive the “Tendered to USPS” Status” Update?

This status merely indicates that your package has been received by USPS and is on its way to the final destination. So, when you receive this update – which usually comes after a few days – all you have to do is sit back and wait for the package to arrive. 

To get updates on your package’s whereabouts, you can keep an eye on the tracking information. If your package has been tendered to USPS, you will be able to track its movements.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the “tendered to USPS” status indicates that your package is now in the hands of USPS and on its way to you. With the right tracking information, you can make sure that your package makes it to its destination on time. Plus, if anything goes wrong, you should be able to get in touch with the initial carrier for help.