‘Shipping label created; USPS awaiting item.’ This is one of the notifications you will likely encounter when shipping with USPS. But what does that mean? Why does it happen? And what can you do when it shows up?
When shipping with USPS, one of the leading courier companies in the U.S., the sender and receiver will be sent several notifications until the package finally gets to the final destination. This allows you to follow your parcel from the time it was sent to the time it gets to the receiver.
However, if this is the first time you are seeing this notification on your tracking status, it can bring concerns and worries. But before you lose your peace, here is all that you need to know about ‘Shipping label created USPS awaiting item.’
What is the Meaning of ‘Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item’?
This status essentially means that the seller or shipper has prepared the package for shipment and has generated and paid for the shipping label through USPS.
However, the actual package hasn’t been received by USPS. The postal service is essentially indicating that they’re aware of the impending shipment, but are yet to get it in their possession.
What Usually Causes This?
When you see ‘Shipping label created USPS awaiting item’, you might be forced to start wondering what the reason for the notification is. Now that we know what the meaning is, let’s now consider what usually causes it.
The notification status generally comes up in two situations. The first, when the shipper has prepared the package for shipping, typically online, but hasn’t dropped it off or scheduled a pickup with USPS.
Another situation is when the package has been dropped off at a USPS desk, but for some reason, hasn’t been scanned into their system immediately. Until USPS scans the package, the online tracking won’t show any updates beyond this status.
How Long Does ‘Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item’ Take?
The duration of this status largely depends on the shipper. Ideally, it shouldn’t last long. Many shippers, after purchasing the shipping label online, promptly drop off the package at USPS, ensuring that it moves forward in the delivery process.
However, delays on the shipper’s part might extend this period. If you encounter such a scenario, reaching out to the sender to ensure the package hasn’t been overlooked would be a good idea.
Package Stuck On ‘Label Created’ for Too Long; Why Is That?
There are times when the “label created” status lingers for an extended period. This can be frustrating and puzzling. One primary reason is that USPS’s system may not update appropriately if the package isn’t scanned correctly when first handed over.
Even if the package is on its way, without proper scans, the tracking status remains unchanged. Hence, you might still see the “label created” status even after the package has reached its destination.
When Should I Get Worried?
Usually, if this status remains unchanged for more than three days, it might be prudent to check with the sender. By this time, one would expect the shipper to have either arranged a pickup or dropped off the package at a USPS location.
‘Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item’ What to Do
Now that you have seen the notification, ‘Shipping label created USPS awaiting item’ you might begin to wonder what to do about it.
As a recipient, your best bet is to contact the sender. Since USPS doesn’t acknowledge ownership of the package at this stage, the sender needs to follow up.
If you are the sender and the package remains undelivered, getting in touch with USPS and providing any proof of mailing would be the appropriate step. Open communication with the intended recipient about the status is also crucial.
FAQs
What is the meaning of ‘Shipping label created, USPS awaiting item?’
The tracking status “Shipping label created, USPS awaiting item” indicates that the sender of the parcel has initiated the shipping process by purchasing a shipping label from USPS. However, the physical package has not yet been handed over to USPS for delivery.
Until USPS receives the actual package, it cannot begin its journey toward the intended destination. This status is a preliminary step in the shipping process, and the package’s movement will only commence once USPS has the item in their possession and scans it into its tracking system.
How long does it take for USPS to scan a label?
The process of getting a USPS shipping label scanned and its tracking status updated can vary based on several factors. While UPS is generally swift in updating tracking statuses, USPS may take up to 24 hours to reflect these changes.
Some reasons the process of updating your package’s tracking status can be delayed include:
- Time of drop-off – if you drop off your package outside of USPS’s or UPS’s operational hours.
- Data processing – Once a package is scanned, the tracking data needs to be processed and uploaded into the system. This step ensures that accurate and real-time information is provided to customers.
- Volume of packages – High package volumes, especially during peak shipping seasons, can occasionally lead to delays in scanning and updating tracking information.
- Transit time – If your package has just started its journey, it might take some time before it reaches a scanning point.
How do I know if a seller has actually shipped an item?
The process of getting a USPS shipping label scanned and its tracking status updated can vary based on several factors. While UPS is generally swift in updating tracking statuses, USPS may take up to 24 hours to reflect these changes.
What to do after creating a shipping label?
After creating the shipping label, ensure it’s securely attached to your package. Place the adhesive label on a flat surface for easy scanning. You may also need to protect it with clear tape to prevent damage and double-check the accuracy of the information, and choose appropriate packaging.
Once all those have been done, you can drop off the package or schedule a pickup to initiate the delivery process.
Final Note
It can be frustrating when a strange notification status pops up when we are tracking our parcel with USPS—whether we are the sender or receiver. There are some notifications that can look very ambiguous and confusing. One of them is “Shipping label created, USPS awaiting item.”
We have helped you see what this status means in this post. It actually primarily signifies a transitional phase where the shipment is prepared but not yet in USPS’s system.
We have also helped you see what could cause this and what you can do when it happens. If you still have some concerns or questions concerning this, please feel free to drop a comment for us in the section below.
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