Understanding USPS Signature Requirements and Redelivery Policies

When the U.S. Post Office has a package for you that is marked as 'signature required,' it's important to understand the redelivery policies and what happens if you are not home to sign for it. This article will clarify the process, including whether the package will be redelivered if you contact the postmaster to have it left at your door when you can't be there to sign.

What Happens if the USPS Can’t Redeliver a Signature Required Package?

For signature required packages, such as those involving controlled drugs or items where shipping costs have been increased, the post office will not leave the package if no one is available to sign for it. The sender has chosen this option, which means they will not be refunded if the package is not received by the recipient's signature. In cases where signature is required, the post office will:

Contact the recipient several times to try and get a signature. Leave a note with the package, indicating that they will make another attempt to get a signature. If repeated attempts are unsuccessful, they will notify the recipient that they must pick up the package from the post office. If the package is still not collected, it will be returned to the sender as 'undeliverable.'

Can the USPS Redeliver the Package if I Tell Them to Leave It at My Door?

USPS will attempt to redeliver the parcel to your address, but they will not leave the package at your door if you instruct them to do so and you are not present to sign for it. The signature requirement is an important factor in the shipping process, and it cannot be bypassed without appropriate authorization. Here are the steps involved:

If you are not available to sign, do not call the postmaster to request the package be left unsignatured. The service was paid for with the understanding that a signature is required. The package will be returned to the sender marked as 'undeliverable' if you do not resolve the issue by arranging for someone to sign for it or pick it up from the post office yourself.

Options for Packages That Don't Require a Signature

Not all packages require a signature. For example, USPS Parcel Post does not require a signature upon delivery. However, standard USPS domestic packages do require a signature if marked as 'signature required.' In such cases, the carrier will try to deliver the package to your door and leave a notice. If you are not home, the carrier will:

Leave a notice for pick-up at the post office. Notify you that you must go to the post office to collect the package. If the package is not collected, it will be returned to the sender.

Using Informed Delivery for Tracking

To stay informed about your mail and packages, consider signing up for Informed Delivery. This service allows you to see what mail you have received, including packages, and to receive daily emails with details of incoming mail:

Go to Informed Delivery and sign up for free. Add your address for the service and start receiving notifications about your mail.

Important Notes

Key points to remember:

Signature required packages cannot be left at your door if you are not home to sign for them. If you miss several attempts for a signature, you may need to collect the package from the post office. The only exception to this is if you sign the notification form (Form 3849) allowing the carrier to leave the package. You would then be responsible for its loss or theft.

For more detailed information, visit the USPS website or contact your local post office.