Is it possible to track shipments from Europe and other countries on the USPS service?

Shipping packages internationally can be a cumbersome process, especially when it comes to tracking their whereabouts. USPS offers an international tracked postal service, although it might not be available from every country. This service, often expensive and not widely used, can still be a reliable option for those who need to track shipments from Europe and other international regions.

For instance, a 1 kg package from the UK to the US can cost nearly $25 just for postage alone. This pricing might deter some from using the service, but if you do decide to go ahead, the tracking process can provide some assurance regarding your shipment's journey.

Once the package gets into the USPS processing center, tracking should begin. However, there might be instances where the tracking numbers are not compatible with USPS's tracking system, making them untraceable. Although this is not very common, it is crucial to check both the USPS tracking system and the originating country's postal service website for updates.

International Tracking System and Its Limitations

When your package starts its journey, tracking might not be immediately available if it hasn't reached the USA yet. In such cases, you can track your shipment on the website of the originating postal service. For example, if you sent a package from the UK, you can check Royal Mail’s tracking system for updates. Currently, there is reduced postal transportation on many routes, so packages might go through another country or be shipped by sea, which can extend the delivery time significantly.

One of the challenges with international tracking is that the system often does not provide granular detail about delivery points in other countries. Typically, tracking will only show which country the package was mailed from and its journey through customs. The system will then begin to show primary city-to-city delivery points and the expected delivery day or when the package is "out for delivery."

Unfortunately, if you did not send it through USPS and instead opted for another shipping company, you will need to check with that specific company for tracking information. USPS's international tracking system does not extend beyond the USPS processing center in the USA.

Conclusion and Recommendations

In summary, while it is possible to track shipments from Europe and other countries via USPS, the process can be limited due to the complexity of international postal services. If you require more detailed and reliable tracking, consider using the tracking options provided by the originating postal service or the shipping company you used. Additionally, purchasing insurance and/or a tracking number might add extra expenses but can provide peace of mind during the shipping process.