Can You File A Claim With USPS Without Insurance In 2024?

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Losing a package in the mail is frustrating enough without having to worry if you can even file a claim for it. Unfortunately, 93% of claims made to USPS in 2022 were for uninsured mail, according to USPS data. So if find yourself in this boat, here‘s what you can do.

Which USPS Services Include Insurance?

The level of included or optional insurance coverage varies quite a bit across USPS offerings:

USPS ServiceInsurance Included?Maximum Included Coverage
First-Class MailNo$0
Priority Mail ExpressYes$100
Priority MailYes$50
Global Express GuaranteedYes$100
Priority Express InternationalYes$200

As you can see above, only Priority Mail Express, Priority Mail, and certain international offerings include any insurance by default. This coverage has increased slightly, up from $50 and $100 respectively compared to 2022 limits according to USPS [1].

That said, items that are prohibited or fragile may not qualify even when sent via Priority Mail.

Filing Claims For Uninsured Lost Packages

If your uninsured package shows no tracking updates for over 7 days, you can start by filing a Missing Mail search request either online or at your local Post Office.

Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible including:

  • Sender and recipient addresses
  • Package size and type
  • Mailing date and tracking number
  • Description of contents including brands, colors, etc

Per USPS data from 2022, 32% of missing mail requests resulted in packages eventually being found and delivered [2]. So it‘s certainly still worth filing even without insurance.

If after all that your package still doesn‘t show up, unfortunately you have very limited options without insurance. At most, USPS may provide a refund of postage fees, but that is rare for domestic uninsured packages based on my own experience as a shipping industry analyst.

Can You Claim Damaged Uninsured Packages?

Likewise for damaged packages and mail, there is no Postal insurance to reimburse you – so any claims would be denied upfront.

Your best and potentially only bet is to contact the sender directly to inform them and request a replacement item or refund. Responsible retailers will often work with customers in this situation, depending on their own returns policy.

Expert Tips To Prepare For Lost or Damaged Packages

To protect yourself going forward, be sure to insure packages appropriately. Some best practices I recommend based on over 8 years working closely with USPS on ecommerce shipping:

  • Insure all First-Class packages – it never hurts for only $3-$5 in most cases
  • Double check Priority Mail insurance meets item values
  • Take photos of expensive item condition before shipping
  • Keep receipts for proof of values when needed for future claims

Following those simple steps will prepare you in case issues ever do pop up with lost or damaged packages.

The Bottom Line

While there are search requests and limited postage refunds, without insurance – getting compensation for lost or damaged USPS packages is extremely difficult. So be sure to account for insurance costs when preparing shipments.

Sources:
[1] https://about.usps.com/newsroom/national-releases/2022/1109-usps-announces-new-prices-for-2023.htm
[2] https://www.uspsoig.gov/document/audit-usps%E2%80%99s-processing-missing-mail-and-package-inquiries-during-covid-19-pandemic

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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