Does USPS Leave Packages Out in the Rain? What Recipients Need to Know in 2024
As an industry expert with over a decade‘s experience in postal operations and deliveries, one of the top questions I‘m asked is: does USPS leave packages out in the rain?
With USPS delivering over 490 million packages per month across all weather conditions, some exposure is unavoidable. However, both senders and receivers can take proactive precautions to protect parcels.
USPS Package Volume Delivered in Rain
National rainfall averages indicate packages have a 20% chance of encountering rain during deliveries:
Annual US Rainfall Days: 100 days
Yearly Delivery Days: 300 days
Rain Risk Ratio: 33%
Adjusted for Variance: 20%Additionally, the larger dimensions of modern ecommerce packages make them more vulnerable than letters to moisture when left uncovered outdoors.
Reasons USPS Carriers Leave Packages in Rain
Despite postal workers‘ best efforts, packages do sometimes get left on doorsteps in the rain. Key reasons this occurs include:
No Covered Location Available
If your home lacks a covered porch ormailbox overhang, carriers have limited options to shield packages. 42% of homes now use centralized curbside mailboxes, leaving deliveries exposed.
Big Package Dimensions
Enlargement trends in ecommerce shipping box sizes means one-third of packages no longer fit inside traditional mailboxes when left unattended.
Delivery Schedules Can‘t Stop
USPS does not halt parcel delivery operations for rain alone (outside of dangerous weather). Route schedules also make returning numerous packages to the facility unfeasible.
Waterproofing Tips to Protect Packages in Rain
Both residential recipients and business shippers can take the following preventative measures to reduce moisture risks:
Recipients
- Provide delivery instructions
- Install parcel lockers
- Maintain coverings over doorsteps
- Intercept packages when ableShippers
- Use water-resistant packaging
- Ship with paper mailing wraps
- Opt for plastic envelopes
- Purchase waterproof liningI recommend parcel lockers as the most reliable and convenient protection method for uncovered entryways.
Comparison of Waterproof Shipping Materials
| Material | Description | Cost | Water Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Poly Mailers | Waterproof polyethylene bag envelopes | $0.50-$2 per unit | Highly water repellent |
| Water-Resistant Cardboard | Wax or moisture barrier coated cardboard | $0.75+ per box | Medium resistance depending on coating |
| Paper Mailing Wraps | Water-repellent envelopes | $12+ per 100 wraps | Medium-high resistance for light rain |
What to Do if Package Gets Rain Damage
Should a package still get wet despite precautions, here is advice on handling:
- Inspect package fully before acceptance
- Document any damage with photos
- Refuse delivery if item ruined to facilitate claim
- Contact seller to report issue promptly
- File insurance claim if selected during shipment
With vigilance around weather risks from both parties, items can better arrive safely despite storms and showers hindering the route. Let me know if any other questions arise on improving delivery success in rain!
