USPS Pre-Shipment Meaning: Why Your Package Says Pre-Shipment (2025)
Quick Answer: What Does Pre-Shipment Mean?
Pre-Shipment means USPS has received the shipping label information electronically, but hasn't physically received the package yet.
- • The sender created the label but hasn't dropped off the package
- • Normal duration: 24-48 hours
- • Stuck 3+ days? Contact the seller
Need to Send Important Mail?
Skip the confusion—send certified mail online with real-time tracking from day one. We print, mail, and track it for you.
Send Certified Mail OnlineChecking your USPS tracking and see "Pre-Shipment" or "Pre-Shipment Info Sent to USPS"? You're not alone—this is one of the most confusing tracking statuses. This guide explains exactly what pre-shipment means, why your package might be stuck on it, and when you should be concerned.
Table of Contents
What Is USPS Pre-Shipment?
Pre-Shipment is a USPS tracking status that appears when the sender has created a shipping label electronically, but USPS hasn't physically scanned or received the package yet. Think of it as a "label created" status.
Pre-Shipment Status Variations
You might see different wording, but they all mean the same thing:
- • "Pre-Shipment"
- • "Pre-Shipment Info Sent to USPS"
- • "Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item"
- • "USPS Awaiting Item"
What Pre-Shipment Means
- • Label info was transmitted to USPS electronically
- • USPS is expecting the package
- • Tracking number is active and valid
- • Package is NOT yet in USPS possession
What Pre-Shipment Doesn't Mean
- • Your package is NOT in transit yet
- • Your package is NOT lost (yet)
- • USPS does NOT have the package
- • Delivery is NOT imminent
How Long Does Pre-Shipment Last?
Under normal circumstances, Pre-Shipment should last 24-48 hours from when you receive the tracking number. However, it can vary based on the seller's shipping practices.
| Timeframe | Status | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 0-24 hours | Normal | Wait—sender may still be packaging |
| 24-48 hours | Normal | Package likely in transit to USPS |
| 3-5 days | Delayed | Contact seller for update |
| 5+ days | Problem | Request refund or reship |
Weekend & Holiday Considerations
- • If a label is created Friday, expect delays until Monday for the first scan
- • USPS holidays add 1+ days to pre-shipment duration
- • Some sellers print labels in advance before actually shipping
Why Is My Package Stuck on Pre-Shipment?
There are several reasons why your package might show Pre-Shipment for days. Some are normal, others indicate a problem.
1. Seller Hasn't Actually Shipped Yet
The most common reason. Many sellers create labels immediately when you order to show "shipped" status, but don't actually drop off the package until later. This is especially common with eBay, Amazon third-party sellers, and small businesses.
2. Package Awaiting Carrier Pickup
The seller scheduled a USPS pickup instead of dropping off. Pickups can take 1-2 business days, and sometimes packages sit waiting for the carrier.
3. First Scan Was Missed
Sometimes USPS workers don't scan every package when accepted. The package might already be in transit but tracking won't update until the next facility scans it. This is common during high-volume periods. See our guide on USPS tracking not updating for more details.
4. Delay at Origin Facility
During peak seasons (holidays, sales events), packages can sit at the origin post office waiting to be sorted. The package is "in the system" but hasn't been scanned into the network yet.
5. Label Created But Never Used
In rare cases, a seller creates a label but never ships the item (scam or inventory issue). If pre-shipment lasts more than 7 days with no communication, request a refund. This is similar to the "Label Created Not Yet in System" status.
What to Do If Pre-Shipment Lasts Too Long
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- 1. Wait 48 hours — Give the seller time to drop off the package
- 2. Check tracking daily — Use USPS Tracking directly
- 3. Contact the seller (Day 3-4) — Ask for shipment confirmation or drop-off receipt
- 4. Open a case (Day 5-7) — File with eBay, Amazon, or your payment platform
- 5. Request refund (Day 7+) — If no movement and no response, get your money back
What to Ask the Seller
- • "Can you confirm this package was dropped off?"
- • "Do you have a USPS receipt or scan confirmation?"
- • "When was the package actually shipped?"
- • "Can you contact USPS about a missed scan?"
Red Flags to Watch For
- • Seller doesn't respond to messages
- • Seller claims it was shipped but has no proof
- • Pre-shipment for 7+ days with excuses
- • Seller asks you to wait "a few more days" repeatedly
If you eventually get tracking updates but the package never arrives, see our guide on what to do when USPS says delivered but no package.
What Comes After Pre-Shipment?
Once USPS receives and scans your package, tracking will progress through these statuses:
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Pre-Shipment | Label created, USPS waiting for package |
| Accepted / USPS in Possession | Package scanned at post office |
| In Transit to Next Facility | Package moving through network |
| Arrived at USPS Facility | Package at distribution center |
| Out for Delivery | On the mail truck for delivery |
| Delivered | Package delivered to recipient |
For more tracking status meanings, see our guides on USPS In Transit Arriving Late and USPS Tracking Not Updating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does USPS Pre-Shipment mean?
Pre-Shipment means USPS has received the shipping label information electronically, but hasn't physically received the package yet. The sender created the label but hasn't dropped off the package at a post office or given it to a carrier.
How long does Pre-Shipment last?
Pre-Shipment typically lasts 24-48 hours. If the sender drops off the package promptly, it usually updates within a day. If it's stuck for 3+ days, contact the seller.
Why is my package stuck on Pre-Shipment for days?
Common reasons include: the sender hasn't shipped yet, the first scan was missed, the package is awaiting pickup, or there's a delay at the origin facility. Contact the seller after 3-5 days.
Does Pre-Shipment mean my package is lost?
No, Pre-Shipment doesn't mean lost. It means USPS hasn't received the package yet. The sender may not have shipped it, or the initial scan was missed. Wait 3-5 days before assuming there's a problem.
What comes after Pre-Shipment?
After Pre-Shipment, you'll typically see "Accepted" or "USPS in Possession of Item" once the package is scanned at a post office. Then it moves to "In Transit" as it travels to your location.
Can I pick up a Pre-Shipment package?
No, you cannot pick up a package in Pre-Shipment status because USPS doesn't have it yet. The package is still with the sender.
Should I contact USPS or the seller about Pre-Shipment?
Contact the seller first. USPS usually can't help until they've scanned the package into their system. Since Pre-Shipment means USPS hasn't received the item yet, the seller is the one who can confirm whether it was actually dropped off.
Need Reliable Mail Tracking?
When you send certified mail through The Letter Pilot, you get real-time tracking from the moment we mail it—no pre-shipment limbo.
Send Mail Online NowRelated Tracking Guides
Last updated:
Tags: USPS pre-shipment, pre-shipment meaning, package stuck pre-shipment, shipping label created, USPS tracking