USPS "Held at Post Office" Meaning: What to Do (2025)
"Held at Post Office" means your package is waiting for you at a USPS location. This guide explains why packages are held, how to pick them up, and what happens if you don't. For important documents requiring signature, use our Certified Mail service.
Quick Answer
"Held at Post Office" means your package is waiting for pickup at the post office shown in tracking. To retrieve it:
- Bring valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, etc.)
- Bring tracking number or PS Form 3849 notice
- Visit during post office hours
- Most packages are held for up to 15 days (Priority Mail Express may have a shorter hold period)
Why Is My Package Held at the Post Office?
1. Signature Required & No One Home
If your package requires a signature (Certified Mail, Adult Signature Required, Restricted Delivery) and no one was available to sign, the carrier holds it for pickup or redelivery.
2. You Requested Hold at Post Office
If you used USPS Package Intercept or requested the sender ship with "Hold for Pickup," your package goes directly to the post office.
3. Package Too Large for Mailbox
Large packages that don't fit in your mailbox and can't be left safely at your door may be held for pickup rather than risk theft or weather damage.
4. Address Issues
If the carrier couldn't locate your address or there's an issue with the delivery location (locked gate, no access), the package may be held pending clarification.
5. Failed Delivery Attempts
After multiple failed delivery attempts (typically 2-3), packages are held at the post office. Check your mailbox for PS Form 3849 notice.
6. USPS Hold Mail Request
If you have an active Hold Mail request (for vacation, etc.), all your mail including packages is held at the post office until the hold period ends.
How to Pick Up Your Package
What to Bring
- • Valid photo ID: Driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID
- • Tracking number: From your shipping confirmation or PS Form 3849
- • PS Form 3849 (if you received one): The peach-colored slip left by the carrier
Find the Post Office Location
Check your tracking for the post office address. This is usually your local post office, but not always—confirm before going.
Check Hours
Post offices have different hours. Most are open Mon-Fri 9 AM-5 PM and Saturday mornings. Use USPS.com to find specific hours.
Visit the Counter
Present your ID and tracking number to the clerk. They'll retrieve your package from the back.
Sign for Package
You may need to sign a receipt. For Certified Mail, this becomes the proof of delivery.
Can Someone Else Pick Up My Package?
Yes, With Proper Authorization
Another person can pick up your package if they bring:
- Your signed, written authorization letter
- Their valid government-issued photo ID
- A photocopy of your ID
- The tracking number or PS Form 3849
Exceptions
- • Restricted Delivery: Only the addressee can receive the package
- • Adult Signature Required: Only adults (21+) can sign; may be restricted
- • ID Required Delivery: Specific individual must show matching ID
How Long Will USPS Hold My Package?
| Package Type | Hold Period | After Expiration |
|---|---|---|
| Standard packages | 15 days | Return to sender |
| Certified Mail | 15 days | Return to sender |
| Priority Mail Express | 5 days (2nd notice) | Return to sender |
| Perishables | Varies (short) | Disposed or returned |
Need more time? Contact the post office before the hold period expires. They may be able to extend the hold for a few more days.
Can't Pick Up In Person?
Schedule Redelivery
If you have a PS Form 3849 notice, you can schedule redelivery online at USPS.com/redelivery.
- • Choose a redelivery date
- • Add delivery instructions
- • Request signature waiver (if applicable)
Authorize Someone Else
Give written authorization to a trusted person to pick up on your behalf.
- • Write authorization letter with your signature
- • Include photocopy of your ID
- • Person needs their valid ID
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Held at Post Office" mean?
"Held at Post Office" means your package is being stored at your local USPS facility instead of being delivered. This happens when a signature is required and no one was home, you requested hold at post office, address issues prevent delivery, or the package is too large for your mailbox.
How do I pick up a package held at the post office?
Bring valid government-issued photo ID and your tracking number (or PS Form 3849 notice) to the post office location shown in tracking. Visit during business hours. The clerk will retrieve your package after verifying your identity.
How long will USPS hold a package at the post office?
USPS typically holds most packages for up to 15 days before returning them to sender. Priority Mail Express and some special services may have shorter hold periods. If you need more time, contact your local post office to see if they can extend the hold.
Can someone else pick up my package from the post office?
Yes, with written authorization. The person must bring your signed letter of authorization, their valid ID, and a copy of your ID. Some packages with restricted delivery require the addressee's signature only.
Sending Important Documents?
Certified Mail provides tracking and signature confirmation so you know exactly when your document was delivered—or held for pickup.