USPS - packages not scanned until at regional sorting center.
Summary: all-for-me-grog shared an experience with USPS regarding package scanning. They noted that packages left at the counter without direct employee handoff may not be scanned until they reach a regional sorting center, which can delay the tracking updates. This differs from the usual drop box process where scanning occurs the same day. Such delays could affect seller ratings if fast shipping is required. They advised handing packages directly to USPS employees to ensure immediate scanning.
I had an interesting experience that I thought worth sharing. Normally when shipping USPS I leave my packages off at the drop box in the lobby. Typically that evening I see the "Carrier scan" and estimated delivery date. This past week I had a package that was too large for the drop box so left it at the counter where people can leave large packages without waiting for an employee. That evening, no scan, the next afternoon (24 hours later) still no scan. I found that odd.
That next afternoon I had another package to ship plus another personal item which I did need buy postage for so went to the counter and chatted with the helpful employee. They told me that unless the package is given directly to an employee at the counter USPS is not (always) scanning packages until they reach a regional sorting center. In this case my package didn't get scanned until it reached the sorting center in Olathe, Kansas some 1000 miles and over 48 later.
As I noted packages in the drop box have been scanned at the local post office so I had assumed the same for all packages. That is no longer the case. Given that many have 1 day shipping requirements having a delay in the package being scanned will result in being ding against one's seller rating.
The take away, if one wants to be assured a packaged is in possession of USPS, one has to give it to an employee at the counter. YMMV
fullers_uk
·3 weeks agoIts not just in the USA its happening here in the UK as well, its just another useful reason for ebay to give late dispatch defects.
usa_biker_goods
·3 weeks agoAnytime I go to the post office I have mine scanned and get a receipt. If you don't do that you leave yourself open to late shipment hits on your account.