Usps losing packages

[kylek84]

Usps is a great service, however more often than not lately they have been losing packages and or delaying deliveries by weeks. Then customers request returns, out of the hands of the sellers. Ebay needs to step it's game up and take care of sellers better. If I upload tracking that I used off of ebay, why must I still provide further proof of tracking? crazy times

[1grandmashope_1]

It is crazy times! To be aware of the problems with shipping is only the first step. You then have to decide if you, as a seller, can handle the possibilities associated with these problems that may come up. There are many obstacles that were not around last year, and I'm thinking that the holiday rush with more people sending their loved ones gifts, versus in person exchanges, it may get worse. 

Think about your options and go with your gut.

Hohoho

Grandma 

[dbfolks166mt]

     Because of the USPS issues I have been closely monitoring my shipments and making sure they are moving through the system. If I see a shipment that has not had a status update in 2 days I initiate a missing mail search. USPS generally responds to those in under 24 hours and strangely enough most of the time the package is immediately found and begins to move. 

     There have been way to many cases of INR's filed where the buyers is automatically refunded, usually by eBay or paypal, only to have the delayed shipment arrive at the buyers location. They now have the item and their money and are under NO obligation to pay you.  

[zander180]

It's getting pretty frustrating and seems to be happening with more frequency.  Most buyers have been pretty understanding.  Some are using eBay's delivery estimate as gospel though.

[fern*wood]

Hopefully after next week, things may try to start to go back to normal.  Hopefully...

[glasser]

I have not had too many problems. Think some is Post Office specific.

That said, I see these posts all the time. People should start exploring other carriers. The FedEx ground and new UPS rates on eBay are very competitive, and creating labels just as easy. FedEx ground especially for heavy items going long distances. And, if you drop off can get the same receipt. I know these services may not be easily accessible for all. But when a service like the USPS lets you down, maybe it's time to vote with your wallet

[animal-house-8]

There's a little notice when you go to print out labels that said to seek other alternatives to USPS shipping due to problems, they are not kidding I had 4 lost but they found one in a couple weeks. This all started when the new Post Master was appointed according to my local post office. 

[greenhousefoliage]

What I have noticed is that packages sent to the northeast, Midwest and the west coast (at least California) are generally arriving okay and on time.

However, packages sent south of a line around North Carolina (this includes South Carolina and Texas) will arrive late and possibly damaged. 

Other than the problems USPS is having with increased volume, the southern states and Gulf Coast has been hit by some bad hurricanes and flooding in the last couple of years and that has affected the efficiency of their distribution hubs in those areas as well as the local post offices.