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How to Setup Free Postal Mail Tracking for Your Mailbox

June 20th, 2024

USPS Informed Delivery is a free service that allows you to digitally preview your incoming mail and manage packages online. In this article we'll explore how to set it up.

1. Create a USPS Account
   Visit the USPS website and create an account. If you already have one, simply log in.
2. Sign Up for Informed Delivery
   Once logged in, go to the Informed Delivery page. You can find this by clicking on "Informed Delivery" under the "Track & Manage" tab.
3. Verify Your Identity
   You will be asked to verify your identity to ensure that the service is being set up for the correct address. There are typically two ways to do this—via an online verification process or by requesting an invitation code by mail. The online verification may involve answering security questions based on your personal information. If you choose to receive a code by mail, you will need to wait for the code to arrive at your address and then enter it online to complete the verification process.
4. Customize Your Settings
   After verification, you can customize your Informed Delivery settings. This includes choosing whether to receive email notifications each day that mail is scheduled to arrive.
5. Access Your Informed Delivery Dashboard
   Once set up, you can access the Informed Delivery dashboard from your USPS account. Here, you'll see grayscale images of the exterior of letter-sized mail pieces scheduled to arrive soon. For packages, you'll receive status updates and can manage delivery instructions.
6. Download the USPS Mobile App
   For convenience, download the USPS Mobile App on your smartphone. The app provides access to your Informed Delivery dashboard, allowing you to view your incoming mail and manage packages on the go. With these steps, you can stay informed about your incoming mail and packages, adding convenience and security to your mail management routine.

USPS appointed a new Postmaster General in 2020, Louis DeJoy, who has been making significant changes to the USPS network in an attempt to make USPS profitable. One of the side effects has been widespread delays in US Mail and packages. In particular, folks who have become accustomed to US First Class Mail requiring X days to arrive been one geographic area and another, may be surprised (and frustrated) to find these recent USPS changes requiring double the time or more. Thus, the USPS Informed Delivery can be particularly useful in easing concerns about delivery delays and lost by getting updated emails each day of the week.