Does USPS tracking currently show that your package has ‘arrived at unit’ or ‘arrival at unit?’
This message isn’t exactly that clear in its meaning, but it turns out there’s actually a simple explanation behind it.
In this article, I’ll be covering exactly what arrival at unit actually means, and how it will affect your package’s delivery time. I’ll also be answering other common questions, like what to do if the package ends up stuck there.
So, let’s get into it!
What Does It Mean When USPS Tracking Says ‘Arrival At Unit?’
Good news! If USPS tracking shows ‘arrival at unit’ as one of the most recent tracking events, this means that the package has arrived at your local post office.
Since this is one of the final steps your package will go through before it actually makes it to your door, this means that your package has nearly arrived, and you won’t need to wait much longer to receive it.
Will My Package Be Delivered Today?
Now that we know that your package is already in your city, you may be wondering – when is it actually likely to arrive? Is there a chance that it will be delivered today?
The truth is, it depends.
On your tracking page, you should be able to view the exact time that USPS scanned the package as ‘arrival at unit.’
If this time was after about 7 or 8 A.M, then it’s unlikely the package will be delivered today. This is because USPS trucks have already been loaded, and may already be out on their routes.
While USPS can deliver twice in one day, this is usually reserved for one delivery for mail, and another delivery for packages. USPS typically won’t load up a second time and deliver packages twice.
Instead, your package is likely to be delivered tomorrow.
Of course, you should always reference the estimate delivery date towards the top of USPS’ website.
The estimated delivery date takes all information and data USPS has into account, and is usually very accurate. Changes to the estimated delivery date can occur right when the ‘arrival at unit’ message is added, so it’s still very accurate.
My Package Is Stuck On ‘Arrival At Unit.’ Why?
Typically, your tracking will show ‘arrival at unit’ as the most recent tracking event for no more than one day. Of course, Sundays are excluded, since USPS does not deliver on these days.
Remember that it’s in USPS’ best interest to get packages delivered out to you as quickly as possible. They simply do not have the space to hold onto packages for extended periods of time, so they work hard to get them out and delivered as soon as they’re able to.
If tracking is stuck on ‘arrival at unit’ for several days, it may be a good idea to get in touch with your local post office branch, or contact USPS by phone.
Note that if you live in a city with multiple zip codes, you’ll want to contact the branch that services your zip code. Typically, the address of this post office and the delivery zip code will match.
My Package Was Out For Delivery, Then Went Back To Arrival At Unit. What Happened?
One thing that can be really frustrating to see is if your package goes out for delivery, but doesn’t actually get delivered.
Then, USPS tracking updates to show that it has ‘arrival at unit’ once again.
So, why does this happen?
Typically, it’s due to issues with delivery. For example, the driver wasn’t able to find the address, or the package was temporarily misplaced.
In almost all circumstances, the package will attempt to be redelivered tomorrow.
However, you should also look for any slips that USPS may have left, either in your mailbox or on your door. Additionally, you should check your tracking page to see if any additional details or messages are provided (for example, no access to delivery location, delivery attempted, or no secure location available.)
Slips or tracking updates may show additional next steps that you’ll need to perform, like confirming that you want them to redeliver, or making arrangements to pick up the package yourself.
Can I Pick Up The Package From USPS Once It’s Arrived At Unit?
Let’s say you want to get your package as quickly as possible, and don’t even want to wait for them to try and deliver it.
Can you pick it up yourself?
The answer is yes, but only in some cases.
To learn more about how to pick up a package from USPS before delivery, click here!
Conclusion
Seeing that your USPS package has ‘arrival at unit’ is usually a good sign! In means that your package is at your local post office, and is scheduled to be delivered soon.
While it’s often not delivered until the next day, USPS does deliver earlier than expected in some circumstances. So, continue checking the tracking page for the estimated delivery date, as it may arrive shortly.
I hope that you’ve found this article helpful, and that it’s answered your questions.
If you have any other questions about USPS tracking, please ask them using the comment form below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Thanks, and here’s hoping your package arrives quickly!
– James McAllister
Leave a Reply