- Mail is tracked by the use of computers interlinked through a vast network. However, the United States Postal Service doesn't track every single piece of mail. Media mail, standard mail and bulk mail are not tracked unless the sender pays extra for this service. However, express mail, global express guaranteed, express mail international, and priority mail international are automatically tracked.
- The cost of tracking is figured into the cost for all mail sent through these express, or global services. Many letters, cards and packages are lost in the mail everyday, which is why paying extra to have your mail tracked nearly ensures its survival. Tracked mail can become lost also, but it is a rare occasion. The post office offers insurance, and a claim can be filed for the value of the item sent if it is lost or damaged. Return receipt is the main service which is used to track any piece of mail, regardless of size. This service is generally 1 to 2 dollars and a refund is issued if the post office is unable to return a receipt that the package was delivered.
- Mail that is tracked goes through a special process. For instance, a tracked package is checked in several times day as it travels to the desired destination. Mail that is tracked is more carefully accounted for and tracked mail is usually separated from regular mail, to avoid any confusion. A tracking bar code is affixed directly to the package when it is sent off to be delivered. Mail that is sent through express or another service also has a tracking bar code that is attached to the label.
- Every time the package ends up at a new location it is scanned and the information is automatically entered into the computer. Every postal station that receives a tracked package is responsible for scanning the bar code and accounting for the package or letter at each stop. Tracking a package doesn't ensure that it will be delivered faster. The main purpose of tracking is for the post office to be aware of the location of the box or letter at all times.
- The same information the post office has on its computer system about the location of the letter is also available to the public. A person can access this information by entering the tracking number online through the USPS website. This information can also be obtained by calling the 1-800 number given at the time the item was sent off.
