what does package research case closed mean usps

Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar

Additional menu

Post office found

Understanding the ‘Package Research Case Closed’ Status

“Package Research Case Closed” in the context of USPS (United States Postal Service) typically means that the USPS has completed its investigation into a reported issue or inquiry regarding a specific mail or package delivery.

When a recipient or sender reports that a package is lost, delayed, or misdelivered, USPS initiates a “Package Research Case” to trace and determine the status or location of the package. Once their internal investigation is completed and they have determined the outcome (whether they located the package, delivered it, or could not find it), they close the research case.

The closing provides a resolution or explanation to the individual who initiated the inquiry, even if the desired outcome wasn’t achieved.

When Is the USPS “Package Research Case Closed” Update Triggered?

When the USPS issues a “Package Research Case Closed” update, it is triggered after they’ve completed their investigation into a specific inquiry or reported issue related to a mail or package delivery. This tracking update is always received after a “Package Research Case Created” alert. This occurs when a recipient or sender reports a package as lost, delayed, or misdelivered.

USPS conducts an internal investigation to trace the package , determine its status, or locate its whereabouts.

Based on their findings, they provide an outcome: this might be that the package was located and delivered, that it was determined to be truly lost, or any other relevant resolution.

Once this outcome is determined and there’s no further action to be taken from their end, the case is officially closed, triggering the “Package Research Case Closed” status update.

What Happens Next To USPS “Package Research Case Closed” Update

Package found and delivered.

If USPS successfully located the package during the research phase, the “Package Research Case Closed” update often means the package is either already delivered or back on track to be delivered to the intended recipient. In this case, tracking will generally be updated to show its new status and estimated delivery time. Customers can expect to receive their package shortly.

Package Not Found

If USPS couldn’t locate the package, the “Package research Case Closed” update means the internal investigation is completed, but the package remains lost or unaccounted for. The customer might be eligible for a refund or insurance claim, depending on the shipping service purchased and other variables. The sender will often have to initiate this process.

Tracking Stuck On “Package Research Case Closed”

When the USPS tracking is stuck on “Package Research Case Closed,” it suggests that while USPS has concluded its internal investigation regarding an issue with your package, its status hasn’t been updated further. This could leave senders or recipients in the dark about the current status or next steps.

What Happens Next To USPS “Package Research Case Closed” Update

Reasons Your Package Is Stuck On “Package Research Case Closed” USPS Update

Incomplete or unclear resolution.

When USPS concludes its investigation, there might be times when the findings aren’t clear-cut. This could lead to a “Package Research Case Closed” status without explicit information on the package’s whereabouts or next steps, causing uncertainty for the customer.

Technical Glitches

USPS’s tracking system, like any digital platform, can experience errors or downtimes. These technical glitches could prevent the system from displaying the most recent status of a package, leaving it stuck on the “Package Research Case Closed” update even if there have been further developments.

No Further Action Taken

After the research phase, there might be instances where USPS deems no additional steps are necessary, or they might be awaiting further instructions. This can leave the package without any forward movement, resulting in a persistent “Package Research Case Closed” status without subsequent updates.

Miscommunication Between Departments

The USPS is a vast organization with multiple departments handling distinct package processing and delivery phases. If there’s a lapse in communication between these departments, it might cause the tracking to stagnate, not reflecting the actual status of the package.

External Factors

Unpredictable events such as extreme weather conditions, operational disruptions, or even manual mistakes can impede the regular processing and updating of packages. These unforeseen challenges can cause the tracking to remain on the “Package Research Case Closed” status longer than expected.

Reasons Your Package Is Stuck On “Package Research Case Closed” USPS Update

What Steps To Take If USPS Tracking Stuck At “Package Research Case Closed”?

If your USPS tracking is stuck at “Package Research Case Closed,” it’s crucial to act proactively. Contact USPS customer service and provide your tracking number to get specific details on the package’s status.

If this doesn’t yield results, consider visiting your local post office; sometimes, direct interaction can expedite resolution. If your package had insurance and remains undelivered, initiate a claim with USPS.

Regularly check your mailbox or delivery area, as there might be delivery discrepancies. If the item was essential and remains missing, consider the possibility of reordering or arranging for a reshipment with the sender.

Reader Interactions

Postal Mail Tracking Codes: What They Mean

Posted on September 19, 2018 by mailomg in memo 304 , Uncategorized // 0 Comments

What does “Received By Agent” mean? You probably have seen that and a dozen other terms and not understood. The USPS uses such terminology as part of its mail and package tracking known as PTR (Product Tracking Codes).

Here is an updated list of the codes, terms, and descriptions utilized to track mail and packages. To see a complete PDF of the codes and terms with other information click here :

Event Code / Description

01 DELIVERED The article has been delivered and a delivery scan recorded the time and date of delivery.

02 NOTICE LEFT Delivery was attempted. The notice shows options for pickup or re-delivery.

53 RECEPTACLE BLOCKED The path to the delivery receptacle was blocked by some physical condition.

54 RECEPTACLE FULL/ITEM OVERSIZED The item could not be placed in the delivery receptacle, either because the receptacle was full or because the item was too large to fit.

55 NO SECURE LOCATION AVAILABLE There was no location deemed safe to deliver the item and there was no endorsement to ‘leave if no response’.

56 NO AUTHORIZED RECIPIENT AVAILABLE The item could not be delivered because a signature was required.

03 USPS IN POSSESSION OF ITEM If the item was picked up, either as part of a scheduled pickup or by the carrier on the route, the event will display as ‘Picked Up’. If the item was scanned in the office, either at the retail counter or on the back dock, the event will display as ‘USPS in possession of item’.

04 REFUSED The item was refused at the time delivery was attempted or after delivery to customer.

05 UNABLE TO DELIVER PROBLEM WITH ADDRESS One or more of the address elements was incorrect, and the item could not be delivered.

06 FORWARDED The addressee has an active forwarding order on file and the item was sent to the new address.

07 ARRIVAL AT UNIT The item has arrived at the local Post Office on the day indicated and is scheduled for delivery. Usually, if the item arrives before 9:30 am, it will be delivered that day; if after 9:30 am, on the next business day.

08 MISSENT USPS redirected the item to the correct delivery unit on the next mail dispatch after it was routed incorrectly.

09 RETURN TO SENDER The item is being returned to sender for one of the following reasons:

21 NO SUCH NUMBER Some component of the delivery address was missing or invalid.

22 INSUFFICIENT ADDRESS There is not enough information in the address to make a delivery.

23 MOVED, LEFT NO ADDRESS The addressee has moved and no forwarding order is active.

24 FORWARD EXPIRED The addressee’s forwarding order has expired and the item is being returned to sender.

25 ADDRESSEE UNKNOWN The addressee is not known at the address on the item.

26 VACANT The house or business is vacant.

27 UNCLAIMED/BEING RETURNED TO SENDER A notice and reminder were left but no one claimed the item before the DMM stipulated hold period (typically 15 to 30 days) was over.

28 RETURN TO SENDER The item was returned to sender for a reason not specified elsewhere (typically when the recipient is deceased).

29 RETURN TO SENDER The item was returned to sender for a reason not specified elsewhere.

10 PROCESSED THROUGH USPS FACILITY The item was sorted in the processing facility indicated by the city, state and ZIP Code. Depending on the class of mail, or origin and destination of the parcel, customers may see more than one of these events, but only the first / last such scan at each site on a calendar day; others are suppressed. Note that on USPS internal sites the event is referred to as “Enroute / Processed”.

11 SEIZED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT The item is in the possession of a law enforcement agency.

12 VISIBLE DAMAGE This event indicates that a USPS noticed and documented damage to the item being delivered.

14 AVAILABLE FOR PICKUP The item may be picked up at the post office or caller or firm service location.

15 MIS-SHIPPED This use case is specific to packages destined to a military location.

16 AVAILABLE FOR RETURNS AGENT A shipping partner or their agent responsible for transporting the item to USPS dropped it at the wrong USPS facility.

17 TENDERED TO RETURNS AGENT Indicates a returned package is ready for pick up by Returns Logistics Agent at one of the Post Offices or Processing Facilities designated as a Parcel Return Service location. This event is applicable to Parcel Return Service only.

30 NO ACCESS USPS handed off a Parcel Return Service package to the Returns Logistics Agent that processes returns for the shipping customer or merchant that sold the original item being returned.

31 RETURN TO SENDER / NOT PICKED UP The item was attempted but not delivered because the employee could not access the delivery location (e.g., gated community where an access code is required).

32 DISPOSED BY POST OFFICE This is an event used primarily for Parcel Return Service or Hold for Pickup Items.

33 DEAD MAIL / SENT TO RECOVERY CENTER The mailed article cannot be delivered, forwarded or returned. Because the item was perishable, the local post office disposed of it.

34 n/a This event is specific to Registered Mail. Your item arrived at our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination. OrYour item departed our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination.

35 VAULT TURNOVER This event is specific to Registered Mail. Your item arrived at our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination. OrYour item departed our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination.

36 TRANSFER TO EMPLOYEE This event is specific to Registered Mail. Your item arrived at our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination. OrYour item departed our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination.

38 REGISTERED MAIL DISPATCH SIGNATURE This event is specific to Registered Mail. Your item arrived at our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination. OrYour item departed our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination.

39 REGISTERED MAIL DISPATCH WITNESS This event is specific to Registered Mail. Your item arrived at our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination. OrYour item departed our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination.

40 TRANSFER FROM VAULT This event is specific to Registered Mail. Your item arrived at our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination. OrYour item departed our USPS facility in CITY, STATE ZIPCODE on DATE at TIME. The item is currently in transit to the destination.

41 RECEIVED AT OPENING UNIT An Open & Distribute shipment has been received and opened at the destination processing facility or post office so the contents can be sorted.

42 USPS HAND OFF TO SHIPPING PARTNER The item — typically Parcel Return Service — has been handed off to a returns agent. This activity takes place at a USPS processing facility (as opposed to a delivery unit). Note: the 42 event may also be seen on GXG items. This is when GXG items are added to a firm book for tender to the GXG partner.

43 PICKED UP The item was delivered to the recipient. The 43 event indicates that the delivery took place at a postal facility.

44 INTERCEPTED The mailer has authorized USPS to intercept a package before delivery and return it to the sender.

45 TENDERED TO MILITARY AGENT The item has left the custody of the USPS (outbound) or has left the ISC enroute to inbound mail processing.

46 DUPLICATE 1 XXX (where XXX is the type of event duplicated). The item is being flagged as having a tracking number that is the same as a tracking number on a different package.

51 BUSINESS CLOSED The item cannot be delivered because the business is closed.

52 NOTICE LEFT The item could not be delivered because of instructions provided by the customer.

57 DELIVERY EXCEPTION LOCAL WEATHER DELAY The item could not be attempted and / or delivered due to local weather conditions.

58 HELD AT POST OFFICE AT CUSTOMER REQUEST The item is being held at the post office because the customer has made a request to that effect.

59 ON ROUTE A physical scan event stating that the article has left the delivery office with a carrier, and delivery is intended on that day. This scan is generally used for items that are being redelivered (following a failed first attempt).

60 TENDERED TO AGENT FOR FINAL DELIVERY The item has been delivered to an agent of the residence or institution to where it has been addressed (college, hospital, condominium, etc.).

71 RESCHEDULED TO NEXT DELIVERY DAY The local post office has indicated that there is a delay impacting the delivery of the item.

72 DELIVERY EXCEPTION ANIMAL INTERFERENCE The local delivery employee has indicated that because of interference by an animal at the delivery location, the employee could not attempt delivery of the item.

A1 ARRIVE USPS FACILITY This is a trailer arrival event, meaning that the item was nested to a container that was scanned as arriving at a USPS facility.

AD ACCEPTANCE AT DESTINATION The item has arrived at the USPS destination entry processing facility or post office.

AE ARRIVE USPS FACILITY The item is in an Open & Distribute container that received an Acceptance (03) event.

AX n/a The item, following an acceptance event, is moving toward its destination.

B1 CUSTOMS CLEARANCE The article has cleared US Customs and will be tendered to USPS.

B5 OUTBOUND – OUT OF US CUSTOMS US Customs has released the article to USPS.

DE DEPART USPS FACILITY The item is in an Open & Distribute container that received an Enroute (10) event.

DX DELIVERY STATUS NOT UPDATED An acceptable delivery event (Delivery, notice left, etc.) has not taken place within 14 hours of the Out for Delivery event

E1 DEPARTED The item is nested to a container that was scanned as departing a facility.

EF DEPART USPS FACILITY Sortation process at the distribution facility is complete; the item is being dispatched on the next available transportation to the next processing facility or the destination delivery unit.

GC RETURN RECEIPT ASSOCIATED Receipt Service, PS Form 3811 (Hard Copy Green Card). This event indicates that the tracking number for the host item and its Return Receipt tracking number have been associated during the acceptance process.

L1 DEPART USPS FACILITY The item is nested to a container that was scanned as being loaded onto transportation at a USPS facility.

LD ARRIVAL AT DESTINATION ADDRESS USPS has used geo-location data and analytics to determine that the letter is on the delivery route to be delivered with today’s mail.

LX PROCESSING EXCEPTION USPS has detected a processing irregularity for the item.

MA n/a USPS has received the electronic transmission of manifest shipment information from the sender. This does not signify receipt of the shipment, only the intent to tender it to USPS. Once the shipment is received by USPS, tracking status will be updated and an expected delivery date will be made available. This event is displayed on USPS.com USPS Tracking only when it is the earliest status for the item.

MR n/a A Reverse Manifest has electronically recorded the item and the Reverse Logistics provider has sent the data to USPS in advance of payment.

MU ALERT MID USER NEEDS TO BE REGISTERED This is generated when the PIC MID does not exist in PTR’s customer reference data.

MX ALERT MID HAS BEEN INACTIVATED This is generated when the mailer ID in the EFN is not certified. This also gets generated if the PIC MID is not certified.

NT N/A This event helps to fill a visibility gap for customers using the tracking web site.

OA ORIGIN ACCEPTANCE A calculated event attaching acceptance to an item based on the first processing scan at a sort facility.

OD PROCESSED AT USPS DESTINATION FACILITY The item is in an Open & Distribute container that received a Received at Opening Unit (41) event.

OF OUT FOR DELIVERY The item is out for delivery. This may be triggered by the ‘Sorting Complete’ event or the employee’s scanning of the Depart2Route barcode. Additionally, if / when the event is generated by TRP, it may be triggered by the employee breaking the geofence, by the employee’s scanning of the Depart2Route barcode, and / or the employee’s scanning of the Hotcase barcode.

OX PROCESSING EXCEPTION OTHER DELAY The item was either being processed from or headed to a location that is being impacted by a delay of some sort.

PC SORTING/PROCESSING COMPLETE All packages intended for today’s delivery have been sorted to their respective carrier routes or Post Office Box sections. This event may trigger the ‘Out for Delivery’ scan event.

RB LISTED ON REGISTERED MAIL DISPATCH BILL Used for Registered Mail only. Item has been added to a Registered Mail Dispatch Bill.

RC DISPATCH FORM DISCREPANCY Used for Registered Mail only. The employee has noted a discrepancy related to the Registered Dispatch Bill.

SF DEPART POST OFFICE Articles receiving an Acceptance scan at the retail window or by a carrier have left the local Post Office and are enroute to the first USPS processing facility.

T1 DEPART USPS FACILITY The item is nested to a container that was scanned as having departed a USPS facility.

TM SHIPMENT RECEIVED ACCEPTANCE PENDING An Acceptance event generated when a USPS employee scans PS Form 5630 (SCAN), the online manifest form.

TX PROCESSING EXCEPTION REG TRANS DELAY The item was either being processed from or headed to a location that is being impacted by a transportation delay (e.g., air or surface transport not available)

UA ACCEPTED AT USPS FACILITY XX (where XX is the event that triggered the UA: 07, 10, or GX/MA An Acceptance event generated for a single piece that was not part of a mailer’s manifest and which did not receive a physical acceptance scan.

VC PACKAGE RESEARCH CASE CREATED XXX (where XXX is the case number if available) A customer has initiated a case on the item via the call center. When this event is extracted, it is accompanied by the case number.

VF REMINDER TO SCHEDULE REDELIVERY The PTR system has determined that the item has met the published “second notice” number of days since the attempt event. The goal of this event is to let customers know that they should pick up or schedule a delivery for their item.

VH DELIVERY INSTRUCTION REQUEST FAILURE A shipper attempted to make a delivery instruction request on behalf of their customer, but the request failed to be processed. This is typically because insufficient or incorrect information was provided by the shipper about the delivery address (e.g., no street address provided).

VJ DELIVERY INSTRUCTION UNFULFILLED The item’s delivery instructions were not fulfilled. This may be because of safety concerns or another reason.

VP CARRIER PICK-UP The customer has scheduled a carrier pickup request. Currently, this is applied to the manifest record, but not to the associated mail pieces.

VR REDELIVERY SCHEDULED The customer has scheduled a redelivery for the item using the Redelivery website or application or by calling the Customer Care Center.

VS PACKAGE RETURN NOTICE GENERATED The item has been held for the maximum time period awaiting customer action to schedule redelivery or pick it up, and a message has been generated to indicate that the item will be returned or dispositioned locally, depending on the product class and Ancillary Service endorsements.

VX PACKAGE RESEARCH CASE CLOSED XXX (where XXX is the case number if available A case that had been opened on an item has not been closed. When this event is extracted, it is accompanied by the case number.

WN n/a The WN event is provided to PTR when an expected delivery window has been calculated for the item. PTR shares the WN information in conjunction with the Out for Delivery event.

WX WEATHER DELAY The item was either being processed from or headed to a location that is being impacted by a weather delay (e.g., major snow storm).

61 RECEIVED BY AGENT USPS has delivered the item to an agent of the residence or institution.

62 RECIPIENT NOTIFIED BY AGENT The agent notified the addressee that an item is waiting and available for pickup at the mailroom.

63 DELIVERED TO RECIPIENT BY AGENT The agent has delivered the item to the addressee.

64 UNDELIVERABLE TO RECIPIENT BY AGENT The agent was unable to deliver the item to the addressee and the item will be returned to the sender.

GX SHIPPING LABEL CREATED A shipper has created an address label and tracking barcode for the item.

80 PICK UP BY SHIP PTNR USPS AWAITS ITEM The item is part of a shipment that the mailer has turned over to a consolidator or contractor for transport to USPS.

81 ARRIVED SHIP PTNR SITE USPS AWAITS ITEM The item has arrived at the shipper’s depot for transport to USPS.

82 DEPART SHIP PTNR SITE USPS AWAITS ITEM The shipper has dispatched the item and it is enroute to a USPS facility.

83 TENDERED TO POSTAL SERVICE The shipper has turned over the shipment to USPS for processing and delivery. Starting with PTR release 12.0, this event will be suppressed on USPS.com USPS Tracking.

89 N/A The shipper has indicated to USPS that a merchant has received an order for your shipment.

84 ARRIVED AGENT FACILITY Parcel Return Service only — a PRS item has arrived at the return agent’s facility.

85 DEPART AGENT FACILITY Parcel Return Service only — a PRS item has left the return agent’s facility and is enroute to the merchant.

86 DELIVERED TO AGENT BY MERCHANT Parcel Return Service only — a PRS item has been tendered by the return agent to the merchant.

87 FINAL DISPOSITION BY AGENT Parcel Return Service only — a PRS item is in the possession of the merchant.

Click to download full PTR PDF

Search the Official Mail Guide

what does package research case closed mean usps

LATEST NEWS

Official mail guide (omg) updated product listings, new mcom professionals certified at mailcom, how university at buffalo and valencia college elevate campus convenience, new cmdsm professionals announced, traytruker, trayrack with optional security features, navigo founder tim sailor dies, msma names manager, supplier, and distinguished service award winners, the best solution to optimize productivity for high volume mailers, new in the omg:.

Increase Output With Quadient iX-9

Open/Scan/Email Incoming Mail

Seal-Tight Concentrate For Postage Meters

Mail Matching System – Updated

Mail Tray Carts

EZ-Letters Sorting Solution

Card Mailing System

Full Color Inkjet Direct Mail Printer

Prepare USPS Mailings In Cloud

SMART Shipping System

Forms Processing Equipment

Convert Flats To Envelopes

Correct Elect Vote by Mail

Sort-to-Light For Flats, Parcels

Tabbing & Labelling System

Pitney Bowes SendPro C Auto

Fusion Speed Hits 30K Envelopes/Hr

Make Shaped Mail

PB Intelligent Lockers

Mail automation technology.

MAI Parcel Handling Processing Systems

Integrated Solutions For Expediting Mail Trays

Sorter Tray Racks Speed Mail Processing

TrayTruker Carts Move The Mail

VIDEO: Mail Tray Automation In Action

TRITEK TECHNOLOGY NEWS

Should You Presort Your Own Mail?

How to Finally Deal with Returned Mail

Tritek Celebrates 35 Years of Mail Innovation

Tritek Shows New Oasis Sorter Technology At MAILCOM ’19

Tritek Vote-By-Mail System

USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide

Whether you are the sender of a package or the recipient, the “ Package Research Case Created ” update from USPS can raise a few questions.

What exactly does the alert mean? Where is the package when the update is sent and how long will the case take?

Let’s take a look…

Summary: Package Research Case Created

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS means that the package has been reported missing and that a case for locating the item has begun. In most scenarios, the sender will have made the report after not receiving the package in the appropriate amount of time.

Package Research Case Created – Guide

After the update is triggered, USPS will begin the process of locating the missing package.

This will involve looking through the progress of the item thus far and will be reliant on information provided by the party that opened the search case, (normally the recipient).

Furthermore, inquiries into a missing item that has been classed as delivered by USPS will differ from those that point to the item being delayed inside a facility.

Either way, when reporting the missing mail item the party opening the case will provide as many details as possible.

Unfortunately for the sender, receiving the “Package Research Case Created” update can sometimes be the first time you are made aware that issues have occurred.

In an eCommerce context, this might lead to the buyer (i.e. recipient of the package) requesting a refund or replacement item sent directly from the seller.

Whether this can be recouped via USPS will depend on the outcome of the research case and the level of delivery service originally purchased.

How long does a Research Case take?

From the time you make the research case, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision .

However, the type of postage service used will determine at what point after the shipment begins, you can open up the missing mail claim.

For example, Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes are eligible for opening a case 7 days after the original postage date.

Domestic Registered and Ground services require you to wait 14 days after the original postage date.

However, as mentioned the case itself should be resolved within 5 to 10 days of the case being requested.

What to Expect After a “Package Research Case Created” Update?

USPS does not state specifically the actions that are taken during an open research case.

That being said, an investigation into the route of the mail item, where it was last scanned, and where it currently might be located is clearly part of the process.

After the search period, the next tracking update will be “ Package Research Case Closed ”. The outcome will also be communicated.

Either the item will be classed as missing by USPS so that an insurance claim can be filed, or the research case has discovered the location of the package and it is now making its way to the destination address.

Final Words

Essentially, the “Package Research Case Created” status update is used to notify parties that a missing mail claim has been made.

USPS has begun looking into the whereabouts of the missing package and a resolution should be stated within 5 to 10 days.

I’m a 25 year veteran of USPS. I’m retired now, but as the editor of Mailbox Master, I can’t quite remove myself from the carrier industry just yet. 🙂

1 thought on “USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide”

I purchased an item on eBay and it was mailed by Priority Mail on the 5th of January. As of the 7th, there had been no further status updates. On the 7th, the package was last scanned in Houston. I contacted the seller and he put in a service request. I called the post office the following day, because the status had changed to Research Package Case Closed. When calling the postal service, they made sure I was the correct recipient and then told me that the Research Package Case Closed meant that the case had been “resolved.” No explanation on how it was resolved. I don’t know if the package was lost or damaged or on its way. She also told me to call in and reopen the case which I did. Then the case was assigned a new service request number and that resulted in the addition of these words: “Last Location Pocatello” which is where I live. However, that was not part of the status. No status update since Research Package Case Closed at all. The Research package case closed status occurred on Wednesday the 17th. There has been no status update at all since then. No follow up to state the status. No one called to explain the status. It is now Sunday the 21st, and I am concerned as to what the “resolution” or “case closed” means. I have had delivery on Sunday when a package had gone missing and was found, but I don’t expect that service every time. So how do I know if I am going to receive my package?

English Use arrow key to access related widget.

Customer Service
My USPS ›
Español

Find Missing Mail

Whether you are sending it or receiving it, your mail is important to you and the U.S. Postal Service ® . When mail is lost or delayed, we want to find it. If you think your package or mail is lost or delayed, follow these steps to help us find your mail.

How to Start Your Search

1. check the current status.

Before you begin your search, if your package or mail has tracking, check USPS Tracking ® to see its current status.

Go to Tracking

Informed Delivery ® Users Informed Delivery provides a digital preview of your incoming mail. There may be occasions where a mail item may be delayed in reaching its destination. For additional information, please visit Informed Delivery FAQs .

2. Complete a Help Request Form

We recommend that you complete our online help request form before you start a missing mail search. Please use a desktop computer to submit your form.

We'll forward your request to your local Post Office ™ facility to help locate any missing items.

Start Your Form

3. Submit a Missing Mail Search Request

If after 7 business days from when you submitted your online help request form your mail or package hasn't arrived, submit a Missing Mail search request with the following information:

Sender mailing address
Recipient mailing address
Size and type of container or envelope you used
Identifying information such as your USPS Tracking number(s), the mailing date from your mailing receipt, or Click-N-Ship ® label receipt
Description of the contents such as what it is and the brand, model, color, or size, if applicable
Pictures that could help us recognize your item

Start Your Missing Mail Search

What to Expect Next

Usps ® mail search.

When we receive your Missing Mail search request, we will send you a confirmation email. We will also send you periodic updates about the search.

If we find your package or mail, we will send it to the address you provided. Please note, sometimes we cannot find missing mail items. It is also possible that your package or mail will not be recovered because it was not safe to forward.

Missing Mail Recovery Restrictions

Requesting a Refund

If you used a service with a money-back guarantee such as Priority Mail Express ® , you may be able to request a refund.

Learn about Refunds

File a Claim

If your mail or package included insurance, you may be able to file an insurance claim. For damaged or missing contents, we recommend filing a claim immediately, but you must file no later than 60 days from the date of mailing.

Learn about Claims

Postal Facts - U.S. Postal Service

Postal Facts - United States Postal Service

Delivering Justice to Opioid Dealers

Justice to Opioid Dealers

The Inspection Service is committed to using the most advanced technology to stop fentanyl traffickers.

Postal Inspectors use data, forensics and citizens’ tips to protect Americans and apprehend opioid dealers who send illegal drugs through the mail.

3,158 synthetic opioids seizures by the Inspection Service between FY 2018 and FY 2022
5,083 pounds of synthetic opioids seized by the Inspection Service between FY 2018 and FY 2022
1,334 synthetic opioid seizures totaling 3,255 pounds in FY 2022
More information can be found at uspis.gov/the-opioid-epidemic

Since fall 2019, the Inspection Service has noted there have been no fentanyl seizures directly from China. Furthermore, since 2020, a vast majority of synthetic opioids and methamphetamine seizures originated along the U.S. Southwest border. In 2022, Postal Inspectors conducted phase two of its Southwest Border Initiative, resulting in the seizure of 170 pounds of methamphetamine, 136 pounds of fentanyl, 56 pounds of cocaine, 4.1 pounds of PCP, 19 pounds of amphetamine and more than $465,000 in illicit proceeds.

The Eagle Logo, the trade dress of USPS packaging, the Letter Carrier Uniform and the Postal Truck and the following marks are among the many trademarks owned by the United States Postal Service: Click-N-Ship ® , Deliver The Win ® , EDDM ® , ePostage ® , Every Door Direct Mail ® , Express Mail ® , First-Class™, First-Class Mail ® , First-Class Package International Service ® , Forever ® , Global Express Guaranteed ® , IMb ® , Informed Delivery ® , Intelligent Mail ® , Label Broker™, Parcel Select ® , P.O. Box™, Post Office ® , Pony Express ® , Postal Inspection Service™, PostalOne! ® , Postal Police ® , #PostalProud ® , Priority Mail Express International ® , Priority Mail Flat Rate ® , Priority Mail International ® , Priority: You ® , Registered Mail™, Standard Mail ® , The Postal Store ® , United States Postal Inspection Service ® , United States Postal Service ® , U.S. Mail ® , U.S. Postal Inspector™, U.S. Postal Service ® , USPS ® , USPS BlueEarth ® , USPS Mobile ® , USPS Operation Santa ® , USPS Tracking ® , usps.com ® , We are people delivering to people™, ZIP+4 ® and ZIP Code™. This is not a comprehensive list of all Postal Service trademarks.

Non-Postal Trademarks

Dollar General ® , Forest Stewardship Council ® , How2Recycle ® , McDonald’s ® , National Dog Bite Prevention Week ® , Starbucks ® , Subway ®, Sustainable Forestry Initiative ® , The Climate Registry ® , Vans ® .

Postal Facts 2023 provides the public with information about the U.S. Postal Service. The facts in this publication may be reproduced for the purpose of stating the fact itself, in a business, informational or academic context and the like, and in the body of text discussing factual subject matter relevant to the fact being presented. However, these facts may become outdated after publication and seeking the latest information is advised.

Produced by U.S. Postal Service Corporate Communications

Service Guides
CANADA POST

USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide

by Nic Smith

Welcome to our comprehensive tracking guide for USPS packages. In this article, we will be discussing the “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS and what it means for you as a sender or recipient. Understanding this update is crucial for tracking your package and knowing the next steps to take. So, let’s dive in and unravel the details of this important USPS tracking status.

Key Takeaways:

The “Package Research Case Created” update indicates that a package has been reported missing, and USPS has opened a case to locate it.
This update is typically initiated by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe.
USPS will review the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, usually the recipient.
The duration of the research case can range from 5 to 10 days, depending on the postage service used.
The outcome of the research case will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

What Does the “Package Research Case Created” Update Mean?

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS signifies that a package has been reported missing and a case for locating the item has been initiated. This alert is often triggered by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe.

USPS will start the process of locating the missing package by reviewing the tracking information and relying on any details provided by the party who opened the search case, typically the recipient. For eCommerce transactions, the recipient may request a refund or replacement item from the seller upon receiving this update.

Whether the sender can recoup the cost through USPS will depend on the outcome of the research case and the level of delivery service initially purchased. The research case typically takes between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision, with different timeframes for opening a case depending on the postage service used.

USPS does not disclose the specific actions taken during an open research case, but the final outcome and any necessary follow-up will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

How Long Does a “Package Research Case” Take?

The specific timeframe for opening a case differs based on the postage service. For Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes, a case can be opened 7 days after the original postage date. Domestic Registered and Ground services require a 14-day waiting period before a case can be opened.

It is important to note that the case itself should be resolved within the 5 to 10-day window once it has been requested. During this time, USPS will investigate the whereabouts of the package, including its last scanned location and any relevant tracking information.

The final tracking update after the research case will be “Package Research Case Closed,” indicating the outcome of the case – either the package is considered missing and eligible for an insurance claim, or the package has been located and is on its way to the destination address.

Note: The durations mentioned above are subject to change and may vary based on USPS policies and regulations.

In conclusion, the “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS indicates that a package has been reported missing and a search case has been initiated to locate the item. If you receive this alert, it means that the sender has not received the package within the expected timeframe and has taken action to find it.

USPS will review the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, typically the recipient, to begin the process of locating the missing package. The duration of the research case varies depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case, usually taking between 5 and 10 days to reach a resolution.

During the research case, USPS investigates the whereabouts of the package and takes necessary actions to locate it. The outcome of the case will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update, which will indicate whether the package is considered missing or if it has been located. If you encounter a “Package Research Case Created” alert, it is important to follow USPS guidelines and wait for the resolution of the research case.

What does the “Package Research Case Created” update mean?

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS indicates that a package has been reported missing and a case for locating the item has been opened. This update is usually triggered by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe. USPS will initiate the process of locating the missing package by reviewing the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, usually the recipient. The sender may be notified of the case through this update, and it can lead to the recipient requesting a refund or replacement item. The duration of the research case will vary depending on the type of postage service used, typically taking between 5 and 10 days to reach a resolution. USPS does not provide specific details about the actions taken during the research case, but the outcome will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

How long does a “Package Research Case” take?

The duration of a “Package Research Case” opened by USPS can vary depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case. Generally, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision and provide a resolution for the missing package. The specific timeframe for opening a case differs based on the postage service. For Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes, a case can be opened 7 days after the original postage date. Domestic Registered and Ground services require a 14-day waiting period before a case can be opened. It is important to note that the case itself should be resolved within the 5 to 10-day window once it has been requested. During this time, USPS will investigate the whereabouts of the package, including its last scanned location and any relevant tracking information. The final tracking update after the research case will be “Package Research Case Closed,” indicating the outcome of the case – either the package is considered missing and eligible for an insurance claim, or the package has been located and is on its way to the destination address.

Join the conversation Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Government Relations
Judicial Officer
Our History
Postal Facts

What We're Doing

Strategic Planning
Current Initiatives
Securing The Mail
Sustainability
Corporate Social Responsibility
Government Services
Postal Customer Council
Service Performance Results
National News
Electronic News Kits
Testimony & Speeches
Broadcast Downloads
Audio Downloads
Events Calendar
Photo Gallery
Service Alerts
Career Opportunities
Working at USPS
How to Apply
Profile Login

Doing Business with Us

Rights & Permissions
Public Key Infrastructure

Investigating Your Case

Although the days and months ahead may be difficult for you and your family, your assistance is important to ensure that justice is served.

During the investigation, you will be informed of the status of the case. Throughout the investigation, a Postal Inspector or Victim/Witness Coordinator will remain your primary contact. If you have questions, be sure to contact one of these individuals as soon as possible. A criminal investigation can be complex and lengthy. It may involve several federal and local agencies.

Remember, your interests are important to us. We are here to help answer any questions you may have.

If your case is accepted for prosecution, you will be contacted by the attorney’s office assigned to handle your case. Most prosecutors’ offices have a Victim/Witness Coordinator to help answer your questions and assist with your concerns during the pretrial and court phases of the case.

Privacy Policy ›
Terms of Use ›
FOIA ›
No FEAR Act EEO Data ›

ON ABOUT.USPS.COM

Newsroom ›
USPS Service Alerts ›
Forms & Publications ›
Careers ›
Site Index ›

ON USPS.COM

USPS.com Home ›
Buy Stamps & Shop ›
Print a Label with Postage ›
Customer Service ›
Delivering Solutions to the Last Mile ›

OTHER USPS SITES

Business Customer Gateway ›
Postal Inspectors ›
Inspector General ›
Postal Explorer ›

Announcements
2023 Fall Seller Update
2023 Summer Seller Update
2023 Winter Seller Update
2022 Fall Seller Update
2022 Spring Seller Update
2022 Winter Seller Update
What's New
2024 Winter Seller Update
Seller Tools
Mobile Apps
New to selling on eBay
Report eBay Technical Issues
Collectibles & Art
Electronics
Home & Garden
Sporting Goods
Toys & Hobbies
Automotive (eBay Motors)
Business & Industrial
Cameras & Photo
Clothing, Shoes & Accessories
Coins & Paper Money
Collectibles
Computers, Tablets & Networking
Consumer Electronics
Dolls & Bears
Entertainment Memorabilla
Gift Cards & Coupons
Health & Beauty
Pottery & Glass
Specialty Services
Sports Mem, Cards & Fan Shop
eBay Sellers
Storeowners
International
Art & Artists
eBay Friends
eBay Partner Network
Other Special Interest Groups
Trading Cards Image Detection Feature
ExperiencedSellers
Traditional APIs: Orders, resolutions and feedback
Traditional APIs: Search
Traditional APIs: Selling
eBay APIs: Talk to your fellow developers
eBay APIs: SDKs
Token, Messaging, Sandbox related issues
APIs Feedback, Comments and Suggestions
RESTful Sell APIs: Account, Inventory, Catalog and Compliance
RESTful Sell APIs: Fulfillment
RESTful Sell APIs: Marketing, Analytics, Metadata
Post Order APIs - Cancellation
Post Order APIs - Inquiry, Case Management
Post Order APIs - Return
RESTful Buy APIs: Browse
RESTful Buy APIs: Order, Offer
Seller Meeting Leaders
View Item Redesign Updates
Ask a Mentor
Share Community Platform Feedback
Retired Monthly Chat with eBay Staff
About the Community
eBay for Business
The eBay Seller Spotlight
eBay Community
Buying & Selling
What does "PACKAGE RESEARCH CASE CLOSED" mean?
Subscribe to RSS Feed
Mark Topic as New
Mark Topic as Read
Float this Topic for Current User
Printer Friendly Page