How to Verify If Mail to a Post Office Box Was Received
Many people have their mail delivered to a post office box for security, to separate business mail from personal mail or because the post office is located close to their workplace. A post office box functions much the same way as a physical address. While some package delivery companies will not deliver to a post office box, all mail handled by the postal service can be delivered to one. The procedures for verifying mail delivery are much the same as for mail delivered to a street address.
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Things You'll Need
- Receipt from express mail, certified mail, registered mail, insured mail, return receipt, delivery confirmation or signature confirmation
Instructions
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Check your receipt online. You will need to enter the receipt number in the appropriate place. This information might not be immediately available if the letter or package was mailed or posted recently. If that is the case, wait 24 hours and check again. Some mail services, such as certified mail, are only reported online after delivery.
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Check your return receipt for actual delivery information. In most instances, this will include the actual address of delivery, as well as the date. The signature of the recipient or her agent might also be included on the receipt if the sender requested it.
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Request email confirmation of delivery or delivery status. This can be done by entering the receipt number under the Track and Confirm service on the USPS website. You will receive the same information that is available online, without having to check back. Email updates are mailed out approximately every 24 hours or whenever there is a change in delivery status, whichever is sooner.
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File a trace or mail loss report for mail by telephone or online that is not reported as delivered within a reasonable period of time and that has not been returned. The required waiting time will vary depending on the mail service used.
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Tips & Warnings
If an unsuccessful delivery attempt was made, or if previously misplaced mail is located, it will be returned to the sender. Private mailbox facilities will often provide a note or receipt whenever they accept mail or a package for a mailbox holder.
Online delivery information is not available for all destinations. In those cases, the sender should request a paper or electronic-delivery confirmation to verify delivery. Service of process is often, but not always, allowed at a private mailbox facility. Service of process is often not allowed for a post office box. The box holder's physical address can be obtained from the United States Postal Service by submitting the proper request form.
