usps package research case closed

English Use arrow key to access related widget.

• Customer Service
• My USPS ›
• Español

Top Searches

Alert: Some of our applications will be unavailable on November 13th between 9 and 10 PM ET for routine maintenance.

Alert: HURRICANES HELENE AND MILTON, FLOODING, AND SEVERE WEATHER IN NORTH CAROLINA AND FLORIDA MAY IMPACT DELIVERY. Read more ›

Alert: Some of our applications will be unavailable on October 17th between 9 and 10 PM ET for routine maintenance.

Alert: HURRICANE HELENE, FLOODING, AND SEVERE WEATHER IN THE SOUTHEASTERN AND MID-ATLANTIC U.S. MAY IMPACT DELIVERY. Read more ›

Alert: USPS.com is undergoing routine maintenance from 10 PM ET, Saturday, October 5 through 2 AM ET, Sunday, October 6. During this time, payment transactions on some applications will be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: Due to routine maintenance, some of our applications may be unavailable on Saturday, September 21 at 10 PM EST through Sunday, September 22 at 6 AM EST. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: Customers may experience issues when logging into Informed Delivery. We apologize for the inconvenience and are working to resolve the issue.

Alert: Informed Delivery services will be unavailable until 3 AM ET Sunday, September 15 for system upgrades to improve your experience.

Alert: Informed Delivery services may be unavailable at times on Saturday, September 14 from 3-8 PM ET for system upgrades to improve your experience.

Alert: Due to routine maintenance, access to some of our applications may be limited at times. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: Due to routine maintenance, some of our applications may be unavailable periodically.

Alert: Some of our applications will be unavailable on August 19th between 9 and 10 PM ET for routine maintenance.

Alert: Due to routine maintenance, the Calculate a Price tool may be unavailable. If you have issues, please use this direct link .

Alert: USPS.com is undergoing routine maintenance from 11 PM ET, Saturday, August 3rd through 2 AM ET, Sunday August 4th, 2024. During this time, payment transactions on some applications will be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: We are currently experiencing issues with some of our applications. We are working to resolve the issues and apologize for the inconvenience.

Alert: Some of our applications will be unavailable between 9 and 10 PM ET for routine maintenance.

Alert: USPS.com is undergoing routine maintenance from 11 PM ET, Saturday, June 15th through 4 AM ET, Sunday June 16th, 2024. During this time, payment transactions on some applications will be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: USPS.com is undergoing routine maintenance from 10 PM ET, Saturday, May 18 through 4 AM ET, Sunday, May 19, 2024. During this time, you may not be able to sign in to your account and payment transactions on some applications may be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: Some of our applications may be unavailable during routine maintenance from Saturday, May 11 through Sunday, May 12. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: Severe weather in the South, Southeast, and Midwest may impact package delivery. Read More ›

Alert: The online Postal Store is currently unavailable. We are working to resolve the issue and apologize for the inconvenience.

Alert: USPS.com is undergoing routine maintenance from 10 PM ET, Saturday, March 9 through 4 AM ET, Sunday, March 10, 2024. During this time, you may not be able to sign-in to your account and payment transactions on some applications may be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: Severe weather conditions across the U.S. may delay final delivery of your mail and packages. Read more ›

Alert: USPS.com is undergoing routine maintenance from 11 PM ET, Saturday, March 2 through 4 AM ET, March 3, 2024. During this time, payment transactions on some applications will be temporarily unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: We are currently experiencing issues with some of our applications. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Alert: Payment transactions on some applications will be temporarily unavailable from 11 PM ET, Saturday, January 6 through 3 AM ET, Sunday, January 7, 2024. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Alert: Some of our applications are undergoing routine maintenance on Monday, October 30 from 10-11 PM ET and may be unavailable. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Find Missing Mail

Whether you are sending it or receiving it, your mail is important to you and the U.S. Postal Service ® . When mail is lost or delayed, we want to find it. If you think your package or mail is lost or delayed, follow these steps to help us find your mail.

How to Start Your Search

1. check the current status.

Before you begin your search, if your package or mail has tracking, check USPS Tracking ® to see its current status.

Go to Tracking

Informed Delivery ® Users Informed Delivery provides a digital preview of your incoming mail. There may be occasions where a mail item may be delayed in reaching its destination. For additional information, please visit Informed Delivery FAQs .

2. Complete a Help Request Form

We recommend that you complete our online help request form before you start a missing mail search. Please use a desktop computer to submit your form.

We'll forward your request to your local Post Office ™ facility to help locate any missing items.

Start Your Form

3. Submit a Missing Mail Search Request

If after 7 business days from when you submitted your online help request form your mail or package hasn't arrived, submit a Missing Mail search request with the following information:

• Sender mailing address
• Recipient mailing address
• Size and type of container or envelope you used
• Identifying information such as your USPS Tracking number(s), the mailing date from your mailing receipt, or Click-N-Ship ® label receipt
• Description of the contents such as what it is and the brand, model, color, or size, if applicable
• Pictures that could help us recognize your item

Start Your Missing Mail Search

What to Expect Next

Usps ® mail search.

When we receive your Missing Mail search request, we will send you a confirmation email. We will also send you periodic updates about the search.

If we find your package or mail, we will send it to the address you provided. Please note, sometimes we cannot find missing mail items. It is also possible that your package or mail will not be recovered because it was not safe to forward.

Missing Mail Recovery Restrictions

Requesting a Refund

If you used a service with a money-back guarantee such as Priority Mail Express ® , you may be able to request a refund.

Learn about Refunds

File a Claim

If your mail or package included insurance, you may be able to file an insurance claim. For damaged or missing contents, we recommend filing a claim immediately, but you must file no later than 60 days from the date of mailing.

Learn about Claims

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Additional menu

Post office found

Understanding the ‘Package Research Case Closed’ Status

“Package Research Case Closed” in the context of USPS (United States Postal Service) typically means that the USPS has completed its investigation into a reported issue or inquiry regarding a specific mail or package delivery.

When a recipient or sender reports that a package is lost, delayed, or misdelivered, USPS initiates a “Package Research Case” to trace and determine the status or location of the package. Once their internal investigation is completed and they have determined the outcome (whether they located the package, delivered it, or could not find it), they close the research case.

The closing provides a resolution or explanation to the individual who initiated the inquiry, even if the desired outcome wasn’t achieved.

When Is the USPS “Package Research Case Closed” Update Triggered?

When the USPS issues a “Package Research Case Closed” update, it is triggered after they’ve completed their investigation into a specific inquiry or reported issue related to a mail or package delivery. This tracking update is always received after a “Package Research Case Created” alert. This occurs when a recipient or sender reports a package as lost, delayed, or misdelivered.

USPS conducts an internal investigation to trace the package , determine its status, or locate its whereabouts.

Based on their findings, they provide an outcome: this might be that the package was located and delivered, that it was determined to be truly lost, or any other relevant resolution.

Once this outcome is determined and there’s no further action to be taken from their end, the case is officially closed, triggering the “Package Research Case Closed” status update.

What Happens Next To USPS “Package Research Case Closed” Update

Package found and delivered.

If USPS successfully located the package during the research phase, the “Package Research Case Closed” update often means the package is either already delivered or back on track to be delivered to the intended recipient. In this case, tracking will generally be updated to show its new status and estimated delivery time. Customers can expect to receive their package shortly.

Package Not Found

If USPS couldn’t locate the package, the “Package research Case Closed” update means the internal investigation is completed, but the package remains lost or unaccounted for. The customer might be eligible for a refund or insurance claim, depending on the shipping service purchased and other variables. The sender will often have to initiate this process.

Tracking Stuck On “Package Research Case Closed”

When the USPS tracking is stuck on “Package Research Case Closed,” it suggests that while USPS has concluded its internal investigation regarding an issue with your package, its status hasn’t been updated further. This could leave senders or recipients in the dark about the current status or next steps.

Reasons Your Package Is Stuck On “Package Research Case Closed” USPS Update

Incomplete or unclear resolution.

When USPS concludes its investigation, there might be times when the findings aren’t clear-cut. This could lead to a “Package Research Case Closed” status without explicit information on the package’s whereabouts or next steps, causing uncertainty for the customer.

Technical Glitches

USPS’s tracking system, like any digital platform, can experience errors or downtimes. These technical glitches could prevent the system from displaying the most recent status of a package, leaving it stuck on the “Package Research Case Closed” update even if there have been further developments.

No Further Action Taken

After the research phase, there might be instances where USPS deems no additional steps are necessary, or they might be awaiting further instructions. This can leave the package without any forward movement, resulting in a persistent “Package Research Case Closed” status without subsequent updates.

Miscommunication Between Departments

The USPS is a vast organization with multiple departments handling distinct package processing and delivery phases. If there’s a lapse in communication between these departments, it might cause the tracking to stagnate, not reflecting the actual status of the package.

External Factors

Unpredictable events such as extreme weather conditions, operational disruptions, or even manual mistakes can impede the regular processing and updating of packages. These unforeseen challenges can cause the tracking to remain on the “Package Research Case Closed” status longer than expected.

What Steps To Take If USPS Tracking Stuck At “Package Research Case Closed”?

If your USPS tracking is stuck at “Package Research Case Closed,” it’s crucial to act proactively. Contact USPS customer service and provide your tracking number to get specific details on the package’s status.

If this doesn’t yield results, consider visiting your local post office; sometimes, direct interaction can expedite resolution. If your package had insurance and remains undelivered, initiate a claim with USPS.

Regularly check your mailbox or delivery area, as there might be delivery discrepancies. If the item was essential and remains missing, consider the possibility of reordering or arranging for a reshipment with the sender.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Service Guides
• CANADA POST
• News & Updates

USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide

• by Nic Smith

Welcome to our comprehensive tracking guide for USPS packages. In this article, we will be discussing the “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS and what it means for you as a sender or recipient. Understanding this update is crucial for tracking your package and knowing the next steps to take. So, let’s dive in and unravel the details of this important USPS tracking status.

Key Takeaways:

• The “Package Research Case Created” update indicates that a package has been reported missing, and USPS has opened a case to locate it.
• This update is typically initiated by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe.
• USPS will review the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, usually the recipient.
• The duration of the research case can range from 5 to 10 days, depending on the postage service used.
• The outcome of the research case will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

What Does the “Package Research Case Created” Update Mean?

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS signifies that a package has been reported missing and a case for locating the item has been initiated. This alert is often triggered by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe.

USPS will start the process of locating the missing package by reviewing the tracking information and relying on any details provided by the party who opened the search case, typically the recipient. For eCommerce transactions, the recipient may request a refund or replacement item from the seller upon receiving this update.

Whether the sender can recoup the cost through USPS will depend on the outcome of the research case and the level of delivery service initially purchased. The research case typically takes between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision, with different timeframes for opening a case depending on the postage service used.

USPS does not disclose the specific actions taken during an open research case, but the final outcome and any necessary follow-up will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

How Long Does a “Package Research Case” Take?

The duration of a “Package Research Case” opened by USPS can vary depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case. Generally, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision and provide a resolution for the missing package .

The specific timeframe for opening a case differs based on the postage service. For Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes, a case can be opened 7 days after the original postage date. Domestic Registered and Ground services require a 14-day waiting period before a case can be opened.

It is important to note that the case itself should be resolved within the 5 to 10-day window once it has been requested. During this time, USPS will investigate the whereabouts of the package, including its last scanned location and any relevant tracking information.

The final tracking update after the research case will be “ Package Research Case Closed ,” indicating the outcome of the case – either the package is considered missing and eligible for an insurance claim, or the package has been located and is on its way to the destination address.

Note: The durations mentioned above are subject to change and may vary based on USPS policies and regulations.

In conclusion, the “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS indicates that a package has been reported missing and a search case has been initiated to locate the item. If you receive this alert, it means that the sender has not received the package within the expected timeframe and has taken action to find it.

USPS will review the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, typically the recipient, to begin the process of locating the missing package. The duration of the research case varies depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case, usually taking between 5 and 10 days to reach a resolution.

During the research case, USPS investigates the whereabouts of the package and takes necessary actions to locate it. The outcome of the case will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update, which will indicate whether the package is considered missing or if it has been located. If you encounter a “Package Research Case Created” alert, it is important to follow USPS guidelines and wait for the resolution of the research case.

What does the “Package Research Case Created” update mean?

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS indicates that a package has been reported missing and a case for locating the item has been opened. This update is usually triggered by the sender after not receiving the package within the expected timeframe. USPS will initiate the process of locating the missing package by reviewing the tracking information and any details provided by the person who opened the search case, usually the recipient. The sender may be notified of the case through this update, and it can lead to the recipient requesting a refund or replacement item. The duration of the research case will vary depending on the type of postage service used, typically taking between 5 and 10 days to reach a resolution. USPS does not provide specific details about the actions taken during the research case, but the outcome will be communicated through a subsequent tracking update.

How long does a “Package Research Case” take?

The duration of a “Package Research Case” opened by USPS can vary depending on the type of postage service used and the timing of opening the case. Generally, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision and provide a resolution for the missing package. The specific timeframe for opening a case differs based on the postage service. For Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes, a case can be opened 7 days after the original postage date. Domestic Registered and Ground services require a 14-day waiting period before a case can be opened. It is important to note that the case itself should be resolved within the 5 to 10-day window once it has been requested. During this time, USPS will investigate the whereabouts of the package, including its last scanned location and any relevant tracking information. The final tracking update after the research case will be “Package Research Case Closed,” indicating the outcome of the case – either the package is considered missing and eligible for an insurance claim, or the package has been located and is on its way to the destination address.

Join the conversation Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide

Whether you are the sender of a package or the recipient, the “ Package Research Case Created ” update from USPS can raise a few questions.

What exactly does the alert mean? Where is the package when the update is sent and how long will the case take?

Let’s take a look…

Summary: Package Research Case Created

The “Package Research Case Created” update from USPS means that the package has been reported missing and that a case for locating the item has begun. In most scenarios, the sender will have made the report after not receiving the package in the appropriate amount of time.

Package Research Case Created – Guide

After the update is triggered, USPS will begin the process of locating the missing package.

This will involve looking through the progress of the item thus far and will be reliant on information provided by the party that opened the search case, (normally the recipient).

Furthermore, inquiries into a missing item that has been classed as delivered by USPS will differ from those that point to the item being delayed inside a facility.

Either way, when reporting the missing mail item the party opening the case will provide as many details as possible.

Unfortunately for the sender, receiving the “Package Research Case Created” update can sometimes be the first time you are made aware that issues have occurred.

In an eCommerce context, this might lead to the buyer (i.e. recipient of the package) requesting a refund or replacement item sent directly from the seller.

Whether this can be recouped via USPS will depend on the outcome of the research case and the level of delivery service originally purchased.

How long does a Research Case take?

From the time you make the research case, USPS will take between 5 and 10 days to reach a decision .

However, the type of postage service used will determine at what point after the shipment begins, you can open up the missing mail claim.

For example, Priority Mail, First Class, and Certified Mail classes are eligible for opening a case 7 days after the original postage date.

Domestic Registered and Ground services require you to wait 14 days after the original postage date.

However, as mentioned the case itself should be resolved within 5 to 10 days of the case being requested.

What to Expect After a “Package Research Case Created” Update?

USPS does not state specifically the actions that are taken during an open research case.

That being said, an investigation into the route of the mail item, where it was last scanned, and where it currently might be located is clearly part of the process.

After the search period, the next tracking update will be “ Package Research Case Closed ”. The outcome will also be communicated. 

Either the item will be classed as missing by USPS so that an insurance claim can be filed, or the research case has discovered the location of the package and it is now making its way to the destination address.

Final Words

Essentially, the “Package Research Case Created” status update is used to notify parties that a missing mail claim has been made.

USPS has begun looking into the whereabouts of the missing package and a resolution should be stated within 5 to 10 days.

I’m a 25 year veteran of USPS. I’m retired now, but as the editor of Mailbox Master, I can’t quite remove myself from the carrier industry just yet. 🙂

1 thought on “USPS “Package Research Case Created” – Tracking Guide”

I purchased an item on eBay and it was mailed by Priority Mail on the 5th of January. As of the 7th, there had been no further status updates. On the 7th, the package was last scanned in Houston. I contacted the seller and he put in a service request. I called the post office the following day, because the status had changed to Research Package Case Closed. When calling the postal service, they made sure I was the correct recipient and then told me that the Research Package Case Closed meant that the case had been “resolved.” No explanation on how it was resolved. I don’t know if the package was lost or damaged or on its way. She also told me to call in and reopen the case which I did. Then the case was assigned a new service request number and that resulted in the addition of these words: “Last Location Pocatello” which is where I live. However, that was not part of the status. No status update since Research Package Case Closed at all. The Research package case closed status occurred on Wednesday the 17th. There has been no status update at all since then. No follow up to state the status. No one called to explain the status. It is now Sunday the 21st, and I am concerned as to what the “resolution” or “case closed” means. I have had delivery on Sunday when a package had gone missing and was found, but I don’t expect that service every time. So how do I know if I am going to receive my package?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Lost Packages

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognizing you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Head here for more details of our privacy policy.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.