You’re expecting or sending a mail item via USPS and have received an “Label Created Not Yet in System” tracking update.
What does this mean exactly, how long does it take for the item to be in the system and what should you do if the tracking ends up stuck?
Let’s take a look…
Summary: Label Created Not Yet in System
The “Label Created Not Yet in System” status is triggered after a shipping label is created. It means that USPS has registered a new label, however, at this stage, the mail item has not been PHYSICALLY scanned into their system. It can take USPS 24 hours (or longer if the sender delays drop-off) to scan a label into the system once it has been created.
Guide: Label Created Not Yet in System
When tracking a package or letter through USPS, customers might encounter various status messages as their item makes its way through the postal network.
One common status message that can cause confusion is “Label Created Not Yet in System.” To understand this message better, let’s break it down:
1. Label Created
This part of the message indicates that the sender has generated a shipping label for the package.
A shipping label typically includes important information such as the sender’s and recipient’s addresses, a barcode or tracking number, and details about the package’s weight and dimensions.
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2. Not Yet in System
This part of the message suggests that although a label has been created, the package has not yet been scanned into the USPS tracking system.
This means that the package has not yet entered the USPS’s official mail processing network.
It is either in the warehouse/sorting center waiting to be physically scanned, or it could still be with the sender, waiting to be dropped off at USPS.
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Where is the Mail Item When the Alert is Triggered?
When the tracking update reads “Label Created Not Yet in System,” the mail item is usually still with the sender or at the initial point of acceptance.
This could be a local post office, a drop-off location, or the sender’s own warehouse in an ecommerce situation.
At this stage, the sender has prepared the package for shipment, affixed the shipping label, and paid for postage, but the physical package not yet been officially scanned by USPS for processing and transportation.
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How Long Does it Take for it to Get into the System?
The time it takes for a package with the status “Label Created Not Yet in System” to enter the USPS tracking system can vary.
Several factors influence this, including:
1. Sender’s Location
If the sender is located in a remote area or far from a USPS facility, it might take longer for the package to be physically transported to a USPS location for processing.
2. Mail Class and Service Level
Different mail classes and service levels have varying processing times.
Priority Mail and Express Mail, for instance, often receive faster processing compared to standard First-Class Mail.
3. Volume and Location of USPS Facilities
The volume of mail being processed at nearby USPS facilities and their proximity to the sender can also affect processing times.
Busier facilities might take longer to process incoming mail.
4. Time of Day and Day of the Week
The time of day and the day of the week when the package is dropped off can impact processing times.
Mail dropped off late in the day or on weekends may not enter the system until the next business day.
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What Should You Do if the Alert is Stuck on This Update?
If a USPS tracking alert is stuck on “Label Created Not Yet in System” for an extended period, it can be frustrating, but there are steps you can take to address the situation and ensure that your package is properly processed and delivered:
1. Give it more time
The first and most important step is to be patient. It’s not uncommon for tracking information to take some time to update, especially if the package was recently dropped off or if there are delays in processing at the USPS facility.
Give it some time, as it may start moving through the system soon.
2. Check with the Sender
Verify when the shipping label was created and when the package was dropped off.
If it’s only been a short time, consider waiting at least 24-48 hours before checking the tracking status again.
Remember that weekends and holidays can affect processing times.
3. Ask for More Details
You might want to also ask for more details.
The sender will be able to provide you with additional information about the shipment, including the date it was sent, the shipping method used, and any tracking or reference numbers.
You will also want confirmation that the package was indeed dropped off at a USPS facility.
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4. Contact USPS Customer Service
If an extended period has passed, and the package remains in the “Label Created Not Yet in System” status, you can contact USPS customer service for assistance.
They can provide insights into the package’s whereabouts and may be able to expedite its processing.
You can reach USPS customer service through their website, phone, or by visiting your local post office.
5. Consider Shipping Insurance
If your package contains valuable or important items, it’s a good idea to consider purchasing shipping insurance.
This can provide you with protection in case the package is lost or damaged during transit.
Be sure to check with USPS or the shipping provider for details on insurance options.
6. Be Aware of Shipping Delays
Keep in mind that shipping delays can occur for various reasons, including weather events, high shipping volumes (such as during holidays), and operational issues.
These factors can impact the processing and movement of packages.
7. Document Your Communication
If things really do go south and the package has gone missing from the start, (or the sender fails to actually send), be sure to document your interactions, including dates, times, and the names of customer service representatives you speak with.
This information may be helpful if you need to file a claim or seek further assistance.
In most cases, packages that are stuck on “Label Created Not Yet in System” eventually enter the USPS processing network and continue their journey to their destination.
Being patient and following up as needed will increase the likelihood of a successful delivery.
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What is the USPS Tracking System?
The USPS tracking system is a sophisticated network of technology and logistics designed to track the movement of mail items at various stages of the delivery process. Here’s an overview of how it works:
- Label Creation: The process begins when a sender creates a shipping label, which includes a unique tracking number. This label contains essential information about the package, such as sender and recipient addresses.
- Acceptance: After the sender drops off the package at a USPS location, it goes through an acceptance process. During this step, the package is scanned, and the tracking number is associated with it in the USPS system.
- Transportation: The package is then transported to a USPS processing facility, often via trucks, planes, or other means of transportation. At each point of transfer, it may be scanned again to update its location.
- Sorting and Processing: Once at a processing facility, the package undergoes sorting and processing. It may be scanned multiple times during this stage to track its progress through the USPS network.
- Delivery: Finally, the package is routed to the appropriate local post office for delivery to the recipient. When it arrives at the local post office, it is typically scanned once more to confirm its readiness for delivery.
- Delivery Confirmation: When the package is delivered, the USPS tracking system records the delivery event, providing confirmation to the sender and recipient.
Final words
The USPS tracking update “Label Created Not Yet in System” may cause concern for some customers, but it simply indicates that the shipping label has been created, and the package is awaiting official processing by USPS.
The time it takes for a package to enter the USPS system can vary based on several factors, including the sender’s location, mail class, and USPS facility volumes.
However, in most cases, the item will begin moving through the system and you will see fresh updates tracking the progress.
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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. 🙂
