Yes, you can trace a letter you sent, provided it was mailed using a service that includes a tracking number. Both the sender and the recipient have the ability to monitor the progress of a mail item with a valid tracking number.
How to Track Your Letter
Tracking your mail item is straightforward and offers visibility into its journey from origin to destination. The United States Postal Service (USPS) provides convenient methods for this purpose:
- Online Tracking: The most common way to trace your letter is by visiting the official USPS website.
- Navigate to the USPS Tracking® page.
- Enter your tracking number into the designated field.
- Click "Track" to view real-time updates on your item's status and location.
- Text Message Tracking: For quick updates on the go, you can also use your mobile phone.
- Send a text message to 28777 (2USPS).
- The content of your message should be solely your tracking number.
- You will receive text message updates regarding your item's status. Standard message and data rates from your mobile carrier may apply.
Why a Tracking Number is Essential
A tracking number acts as a unique identifier for your mail item. It is assigned when you use specific mailing services that offer tracking capabilities. Without a tracking number, it is generally not possible to trace a standard letter sent via traditional mail services, as these items are not individually scanned or logged throughout their journey in the same way.
To ensure you can trace a letter, always opt for a mailing service that provides a tracking number when sending important documents or items.
