Certified mail
How do I track certified mail?
Updated · By the SendMyLettersOnline team
Enter the Certified Mail article number (printed on your PS Form 3800 receipt or in the email from your mailing service) at USPS Tracking on usps.com. The history shows when USPS accepted the letter, its movement, delivery attempts or notices left, and the delivery date.
| Status | What it means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-shipment / label created | Label exists, USPS has not scanned it yet | Wait for the acceptance scan |
| Accepted / USPS in possession | USPS has the letter | Keep your proof of mailing |
| In transit | Moving through the network | Nothing |
| Notice left (no authorized recipient available) | Nobody signed; letter held for pickup | Recipient must pick it up; it is returned if unclaimed |
| Delivered | Signed for and delivered | Download the return receipt if you bought one |
| Return to sender / unclaimed | Not picked up or refused | Keep the record; it can still show you tried |
Ways to track
- Online: USPS Tracking.
- Email updates: sign up for notifications on the tracking page.
- When you send through us, we email you the tracking number and status updates.
Tracking is not the same as a return receipt
Tracking shows status and dates. A return receipt gives you a document with the signature of the person who accepted it. If you may need to show who received the letter, add the return receipt when you send. See how certified mail works.
Quick answers
What if my certified mail doesn't arrive before the deadline?
Your mailing receipt still shows when you sent it. Whether mailing or receipt counts depends on the rule; see prove you mailed before a deadline.
How to prove a tenant received a notice?
The delivery scan plus the return receipt signature. See prove a tenant received a notice.
Why does my tracking say pre-shipment?
The label was created but USPS has not scanned the letter yet. It usually updates once USPS accepts the mail.
What to do next
Send a certified letter and get the tracking number by email as soon as it is mailed.
Send a tracked letterSources
Checked: . General information, not legal advice. Fees and rules change: confirm current values at the official links above.