Comprehensive Guide to FedEx Door Tags and USPS Package Tracking
A FedEx door tag number is associated with your package’s tracking number. It starts with DT and is followed by 12 numbers. You use the door tag number to locate your package. Usually a driver leaves a door tag because you weren’t there for a delivery, or maybe they couldn’t find a secure place to leave your package.
Understanding FedEx Door Tags
The most common reason you’ll receive a door tag is because you weren’t home for a delivery. But there are a few other situations where you might see a FedEx door tag:
- Your package requires a signature, and no one was available.
- The driver couldn’t find a secure place to leave your package.
The driver will mark why your package couldn’t be delivered. A driver leaves a door tag after the first delivery attempt. See the delivery attempt date and redelivery directions. If your driver checked the “Final delivery attempt” box, your package is at a FedEx location. They’ll mark the “See back of tag” box if they have more information for you.
How to Track Your FedEx Shipment
Whatever the reason, the first step is tracking down your shipment. Decide how you want to locate your package. For example, you can scan the door tag number barcode to track your shipment. Find other ways to track your delivery:
- Scan your door tag's barcode on the FedEx ® Mobile app for shipment information and delivery options.
- Enter your door tag number on the FedEx tracking tool to follow your package's journey.
- Text “follow” and your door tag number to 48773. For example: follow DT999999999999.
Getting Your Package Home
Now that you know where your package is, it’s time to get it home. Authorize a next-business-day delivery–even if you won't be home. Just complete and sign the form on your FedEx door tag and leave it on your door. If a signature is required for delivery, your driver will check the box. Sign the door tag. Then, put it back on the door, allowing the driver to redeliver your package.
There may be a pickup location listed on your door tag. Please bring your door tag or tracking number and a government-issued photo ID. If the address on your ID doesn't match the label, you'll need to bring something with a matching address, like a utility bill or insurance card. You can request to redirect your package to a FedEx location and pick it up on your schedule. Choose from stores in your neighborhood, including FedEx Office, Walgreens, and Dollar General. This benefit is free if you're enrolled in FedEx Delivery Manager.
Using FedEx Delivery Manager for Convenient Deliveries
Enroll in FedEx Delivery Manager ® for more convenient deliveries. Help prevent future missed deliveries and be proactive today so you may never see a FedEx door tag again. Customize your preferences before a package arrives and make deliveries work for your life:
- Leave instructions for your driver. For example, ask them to place your package at a side door.
- Get email and text notifications to track your package every step of the way.
- Request to redirect a package to a local FedEx location.
- See all incoming and outgoing packages on your Apple Watch ®.
- Request to schedule a delivery time that works for you or change the address to another residence.
If you sign up for FedEx Delivery Manager, you can virtually sign for packages. You won’t have to worry about missing a delivery if you’re not home. Note that this feature is not available for packages that require an adult or direct physical signature. For safety reasons, FedEx drivers cannot follow handwritten notes or unofficial means of communication left by customers.
Comprehensive USPS Package Tracking Services
The United States Postal Service (USPS), often referred to as the Post Office, U.S. Mail, or Postal Service, operates as an independent entity within the U.S. federal government. Regardless of your tracking number, USPS provides a straightforward method to monitor your shipment's journey. A standard USPS tracking number is typically 22 characters long and includes both numbers and letters.
Methods to Track USPS Packages
You can track your USPS packages in several main ways:
- Official Website: Visit the USPS tracking page, enter your tracking number, and click to "Track".
- USPS Mobile App: Download the USPS App for iPhone or Android and enter your tracking number directly. You can also choose to scan your tracking code directly through the App.
- Text Tracking: Receive real-time package status updates through USPS Text Tracking. Text your tracking number to 28777 (2USPS) and USPS will reply with the updates.
- Third-Party Platforms: Use 17TRACK by entering your USPS tracking number to guarantee a high tracking accuracy rate of up to 99.9%.
USPS Shipping Services and Delivery Times
USPS shipping time varies based on package type and the sender's and receiver's locations. For most domestic deliveries, expect 1-3 days. For example, deliveries from Texas to California typically take 2 days. Below is a summary of delivery times from USPS:
- Priority Mail Express: 1-2 days guaranteed by 6 pm
- Priority Mail: 1-3 days
- First Class Mail: 1-5 days
- First Class Package Service: 2-5 days
- USPS Retail Ground: 2-5 days
- Media Mail: 2-8 days
Yes, USPS Ground Advantage includes tracking. This service provides end-to-end tracking, allowing you to monitor your shipment from the time it is sent until it reaches its destination.
What to Do if Mail is Lost
If your mail hasn’t arrived within 7 business days, you can request a search for missing mail. Follow these steps:
- Check the Current Status: Use USPS Tracking to see where your mail is.
- Submit an Online Help Request: Fill out an online form for further assistance.
- Contact Your Local Post Office: They can help you locate your missing items.
