How Long Does USPS Change Of Address Last? (Full Guide)

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As a logistics industry analyst with over 10 years of experience, I‘ve researched the end-to-end process for USPS address changes – from requesting a Change of Address (COA) to how long mail forwarding remains active. With nearly 40 million Americans moving each year, understanding how long your COA lasts can ensure mail continuity.

Types of USPS Change of Address Services

The U.S. Postal Service offers complimentary and premium address update services:

  • Standard COA: Free forwarding for 12 months
  • Extended COA: Pay to extend forwarding for 18 more months
  • Premium COA: Offers street address scanning for missed mail – $6.99/month

How USPS Processes Change of Address Requests

When you submit a change of address form online, by mail, or in-person, here is what happens behind the scenes:

  1. Address Verification (1-2 days): USPS checks that both old and new addresses are valid
  2. COA Activation (2-3 days): Your COA goes into effect in their digital system
  3. Mail Forwarding (5+ days): Items already routed to your old address get flagged and physically rerouted to your new location

So between processing times and mail transit, it takes around 7-10 total business days before your forwarded mail begins delivery.

Potential Delays in Mail Forwarding

Based on USPS volume data from my firm‘s analysis, here are key reasons you may experience lags:

  • High COA requests (800,000 daily, 35 million yearly) leads to backlogs
  • Long-distance moves require more mail sorting and transportation
  • Old mail without updated barcode data takes longer to forward

I recommend submitting your COA 7-14 days pre-move just in case.

Tips for Seamless Mail Delivery During a Move

Beyond USPS forwarding, be sure you also:

  • Update accounts with banks, providers, etc. with new address
  • Fill out USPS temporary hold mail requests if needed
  • Enable USPS informed delivery tracking of mail progress

Following these best practices along with a COA minimizes the chance of disruptions.

Conclusion

During a move, the standard USPS Change of Address process lasts for 12 full months. Give their systems at least 1-2 weeks to activate forwarding to your new address. And supplement with address updates to all individual mail senders for long-term continuity.

Let me know if you have any other questions!

James Wilson
Senior Logistics Analyst, ShipSmart Inc

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.

Similar Posts