USPS tracking status
USPS “Forwarded”: what it means
The short answer
Keep an eye on itUSPS is sending your package on, either to a new address from a change of address request or to the right post office because the address or ZIP Code on the label was wrong.
When to act: If the package was forwarded away from an address where you still live, or no new scan appears within about 5 business days, file a complaint and we send it to USPS.
Also shown as: “Forward Processed”
What to do now
- 1
Check the city in the Forwarded scan to see where the package is heading.
- 2
If you moved and filed a change of address, wait for it at your new address.
- 3
If you did not move, check whether anyone in your household filed a change of address, and compare the ZIP Code on your order with your street address.
- 4
If the ZIP Code on the label was wrong, no action is needed; USPS is routing it to the right post office.
- 5
If it is heading to an address you do not use, take a screenshot of the Forwarded scan for your complaint.
- 6
Still not sorted? File your complaint here. We write it with you and send it to USPS, so you do not have to chase it yourself.
What does “Forwarded” mean?
USPS files Forwarded under Alert, but it is not a failure. It has two causes. If someone at the address filed a change of address, USPS forwards eligible mail and packages to the new address on file. If the label had the wrong ZIP Code, or the package reached the wrong post office, USPS sends it on to the right one, and the tracking line looks the same.
Forward Processed means USPS has applied the forwarding instructions and the package is on its way. Forwarding adds at least one extra leg, so the original delivery date often no longer holds.
Why does USPS show it?
- A change of address is on file for the name or address on the label
- The ZIP Code on the label does not match the street address
- The package was sorted to the wrong post office
- A temporary forwarding order, for example while someone is away
- The sender used an old address that is now forwarded
How long does it last?
The package continues to the new address or the correct post office, usually adding one to several days. If the forwarding order has expired or there is no forwarding address, the package goes back to the sender as Forward Expired or Moved, Left No Address.
Other USPS statuses
- Label created, USPS awaiting itemKeep an eye on it
- Moving through networkNormal
- Tracking not updatingKeep an eye on it
- In transit, arriving lateKeep an eye on it
- Alert: delivery exceptionKeep an eye on it
- Origin Post is Preparing ShipmentKeep an eye on it
- Arrived at Post OfficeNormal
- Out for DeliveryNormal
- Awaiting delivery scanKeep an eye on it
- No access to delivery locationKeep an eye on it
- Notice leftTake action
- Held at post officeTake action
- Insufficient addressTake action
- Delivered, but not receivedTake action
Who is responsible for a late or missing package from USPS?
Bought it online from a business? Then the seller is usually responsible until the package is delivered. The seller chose USPS, bought the label and holds the mailing record that USPS needs for a lost package, so a late, lost or damaged order is in most cases the seller's to put right with a replacement or a refund.
Sent it yourself? Then your contract is with USPS, under the mailing rules in its Domestic Mail Manual. Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express and USPS Ground Advantage include insurance of up to $100 for merchandise on most shipments; without insurance USPS pays nothing for loss or damage. Insurance does not cover delay, or a package lost or taken after delivery.
Questions about “Forwarded”
What does Forwarded mean on USPS tracking?
USPS is sending the package on, either to a new address from a change of address order or to the right post office because the address or ZIP Code on the label was wrong.
Why was my package forwarded when I didn't move?
Common reasons are a wrong ZIP Code on the label or a missort to the wrong post office. Less often, an old or mistaken change of address matches the name or address. If the package is heading to an address you do not use, file a complaint on Complain.biz and we send it to USPS.
How long does a forwarded USPS package take?
Usually a few extra days on top of the normal transit time, depending on how far the new address is. The original expected date often no longer applies.
Why is Forwarded shown as an Alert?
USPS groups changes to the planned delivery under Alert. Forwarded by itself is not a problem; it only needs action if the new address is wrong.
Based on
- USPS FAQ: Where is my package? Tracking Status Help
- USPS PostalPro: Domestic Tracking Scan Events (event codes and tracking texts)
- USPS FAQ: Mail Forwarding Options
- USPS FAQ: USPS Package Intercept, The Basics
- USPS Domestic Mail Manual 609: Filing Indemnity Claims for Loss or Damage
- USPS FAQ: Domestic Claims, The Basics