Tracking status

“Pre-Shipment”: what this tracking status means

USPS uses this status when a label with a USPS Tracking number has been created but the package has not yet been given to USPS. Once USPS receives it, the package is processed and a delivery date is provided. Australia Post's 'Pending' similarly means the item has not been scanned into its system yet.

What to do

  1. Contact the shipper with questions; USPS directs customers to the shipper at this stage.
  2. Sign up for USPS text or email tracking updates.
  3. If you dropped an Australia Post item in a street posting box, allow time for the first scan.
  4. Double-check the tracking number was copied correctly.

How long it usually takes

Australia Post says a 'Pending' status should update in 24 to 48 hours after the item enters its network.

When to contact the sender or carrier

If the status has not moved several days after the sender says it was posted, ask the sender for proof of postage or acceptance; Australia Post notes 'Pending' can also mean an old, archived tracking number with no activity for over 3 months.

How carriers word it

Wording on the tracking pageCarrier
“Pre-Shipment, USPS Awaiting Item”USPS
“Pre-Shipment Info Sent to USPS, USPS Awaiting Item”USPS
“Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”USPS
“Pending”Royal Mail
“Pending”Australia Post

Check your package

Paste your tracking number to open the latest status on the official carrier website.

Works with parcel, AWB, container and postal numbers
Paste any tracking number and we detect the carrier automatically.
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