What kind of package hand-over triggers THIS code?

[gurlcat]

I don't think I've ever seen "in possession" on the USPS's own tracking before.  I know I've seen it plenty of times in merchandise website's own tracking language, especially when USPS is the last leg of transit after some overseas carrier gives it to them.  But not on USPS actual web page, and not for a hand-over right from the item's original origin.  

About this item: it's a medium flat rate box item that I purchased here on eBay, from a small seller in Wisconsin, and they shipped on the second day.  So I know there was no middleman or anything.  I know this wasn't a pickup because I do those as a seller and the scan says 'Picked up'. 

Is this maybe the scan that one of those electronic kiosk things generates?  

[deserdog]

Every item I ship when it is scanned in gets this message from USPS.

[ebooksdiva]

I see “USPS in possession”all the time after I take items to the PO, perhaps you are just noticing it. 

[1786davycrockett]

@gurlcat 

When I use the USPS 24 hour kiosk in the post office lobby, that seems to be the first message that is recorded on the tracking record.

It is a preliminary message used by USPS before the package receives its first hand-scan by a USPS employee.

This message is actually for the sellers' benefit, as it provides proof that the package has at least been shipped and received by USPS, particularly if the package has been shipped after USPS hours.

Not to worry, @gurlcat !

[frugalmarketplace]

@gurlcat   That  is what mine says on every package. I always go back and check orders that have been shipped. 

[kalyoth]

"In possession" means - item was accepted by USPS & acknowledges responsibility for the shipment. Mine read that frequently after I drop them off at the counter. 

[ryry-jj]

I've just started receiving this message over the last few weeks.  My packages are picked up and scanned by the USPS carrier, and then a few minutes later I received the message

[stephenmorgan]

There was a recent recent change on how the tracking displays from my Post Office.  It changed from Arrived at Facility to USPS in Possession of Item.

There also was a recent change with the Printed Receipt when I drop off a item.  There is a lot more information on the receipt now.

I wait in line for a printed receipt for all shipments.