USPS · USPS Rates and Services Knowledge

What is the difference between USPS tracking and delivery confirmation?

Correct answer

Tracking provides real-time scan events along the route; delivery confirmation only confirms final delivery without intermediate scans

  1. A They are the same thing
  2. B Tracking provides real-time scan events along the route; delivery confirmation only confirms final delivery without intermediate scans
  3. C Delivery confirmation tracks the entire route; tracking only confirms delivery
  4. D Neither provides any real-time information

Why this is the answer

USPS Tracking (included with Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, and USPS Ground Advantage) provides multiple scan events along the route — accepted at post office, in transit, out for delivery, delivered. Delivery Confirmation (older, now largely replaced) provided only the final delivery scan. Customers frequently ask about tracking — understanding the difference and what their specific service includes is important counter knowledge.
Source: USPS 477 VEA, Tracking Services