Safe package delivery is more important than ever. Online shoppers expect reliability from online merchants these days. Meanwhile, package theft (aka porch piracy) is increasingly common. Signature confirmation services help you ensure packages arrive as intended.
USPS Signature Confirmation is a value-added service that requires the recipient or a responsible party to sign for the release of a package. This service grants both shippers and customers peace of mind, especially those with high-value shipments. It's only available for domestic-US shipments.
For a small fee, USPS offers four delivery confirmation services, including:
In this blog, we explain Signature Confirmation and these similar USPS services.
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USPS Signature Confirmation is a value-added service that requires the recipient or a responsible party to sign for the release of their package.
In other words, the recipient has to be physically present to receive their package. They must also show a valid photo ID to confirm their identity. USPS won’t drop off the package until a signature is obtained.
Once the package is delivered, USPS relays the delivery confirmation to the shipper. This information includes the date, time, and location of delivery.
Packages that aren’t signed for are returned to the local delivery hub. The delivery driver leaves a paper notice and an online notification to inform you that a delivery attempt was made, and will be re-attempted.
These notifications allow the shipper to verify the status of a package, and whether it's been delivered safely. Meanwhile, the recipient can rest assured that their order will only reach their hands.
USPS offers four delivery confirmation services, including:
Recipients can sign electronically for their packages via USPS Electronic Signature.
Signature confirmation services are purchased with your shipping label for a small fee. USPS Signature Confirmation and the like can be purchased for the following shipping services:
Bonus: Priority Mail Express shipments receive signature confirmation services automatically.
USPS Signature Confirmation and its variants all have different prices. You can purchase these services from the USPS website, from shipping solutions like Easyship, or at a Post Office.
Here are the costs for USPS delivery confirmation services:
USPS Signature Required:
USPS Adult Signature Required:
USPS Restricted Delivery:
USPS Adult Signature Restricted Delivery:
Certain restrictions apply to USPS Signature Confirmation and similar services, including:
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Signature confirmation services work just like normal USPS tracking services. To view the delivery status of a shipment, just visit the tracking page for your shipment. You can also call the USPS customer service line.
If the recipient isn't home, the USPS driver leaves a note. This note tells the recipient the next scheduled delivery time or the local Post Office location where they can claim their package.
USPS will make 1-2 delivery attempts beyond the first. Packages undelivered after a few attempts are held at the nearest Post Office for 15 days before the package is returned to the shipper.
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USPS Shipping Confirmation FAQ
Can I waive signature confirmation with USPS?
Yes, you can waive the USPS signature confirmation requirement to allow the carrier to deliver mail without obtaining the recipient's signature.
How do I know if my USPS package requires a signature?
You'll receive notifications from USPS, or see the requirement on your USPS tracking page using the information sent to you by the shipper. A shipping label requiring you to append your signature will also be attached to the package.
Can I add signature confirmation after shipping?
No. This service must be purchased either online on usps.com or at the Post Office during the time of shipping.
What is the difference between certified mail and signature confirmation?
Certified mail provides a mailing receipt to the sender as proof that a package was sent on a certain date, as well as electronic verification of delivery upon request. Signature confirmation provides the sender with the recipient's signature, name, delivery date, and delivery address.
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Does Priority Mail require a signature?
Priority Mail shipments are eligible for USPS signature confirmation. It's up to the shipper to add signature requirements to their packages at a fee.
What happens if you aren't home to sign for a package?
USPS delivery staff will leave a note at your residence on the next scheduled delivery attempt or options on how to get the package at the nearest Post Office.
