What Does Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item Mean?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

When you order something online or send a package through the United States Postal Service (USPS), tracking your shipment becomes an essential part of the experience. One status update that often catches the eye is “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item.” This phrase can leave many wondering what exactly it means and what to expect next in the delivery process. Understanding this status is key to managing your expectations and ensuring a smooth shipping experience.

At first glance, the message indicates that the shipping label for your package has been generated, but the USPS has not yet received the physical item. This status is a common early step in the shipping journey and can sometimes cause confusion or concern for senders and recipients alike. It serves as a reminder that while the process has begun, the package is still in the sender’s hands or awaiting drop-off at a USPS facility.

Delving deeper into this status will help clarify the logistics behind it and explain why packages sometimes remain in this phase longer than anticipated. By gaining insight into what “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” truly signifies, you’ll be better equipped to track your shipments confidently and understand the next steps in the delivery timeline.

Understanding the “Awaiting Item” Status in USPS Tracking

When you see the status “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item,” it indicates that a shipping label has been generated, but the package has not yet been physically received by USPS. This status appears early in the shipping process and is common for many shipments, especially those that use online postage services.

This stage means the sender has prepared the shipment, but the parcel is still in their possession or with a third party waiting to be handed over to the postal service. USPS tracking systems update once the item is scanned into the USPS network, which typically happens when the sender drops off the package at a USPS location, schedules a pickup, or hands it over to a carrier.

Reasons for the Delay Between Label Creation and Item Receipt

Several factors can cause the gap between label creation and the USPS physically receiving the package:

  • Seller or sender delay: The sender has purchased postage but hasn’t yet dropped off or handed over the item.
  • Scheduled pickups: The package is waiting for a USPS carrier to pick it up at a scheduled time.
  • Holiday or weekend delays: USPS or sender facilities may be closed or have limited hours.
  • Shipping volume surges: High demand periods can extend the time before packages enter the USPS system.
  • Incorrect or incomplete sender information: Occasionally, label creation can occur with missing or incorrect details, causing delays in processing.

What Shippers and Recipients Should Know

It is important for both the sender and recipient to understand the implications of this status:

  • For senders: Generating the label early can be convenient but ensure the item is handed over promptly to avoid customer confusion or complaints.
  • For recipients: Patience is advised; the package tracking will update once USPS takes possession.
  • Tracking updates: Once USPS scans the item, the status will change to reflect its journey through the postal network.

Typical USPS Tracking Status Progression

To help clarify the shipping process, below is a common sequence of tracking statuses for USPS shipments:

Status Description Who Updates
Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item Label purchased, but USPS has not yet received the package. Sender or online postage system
Accepted at USPS Facility Package physically received and scanned at USPS location. USPS
In Transit Package is moving through the USPS network. USPS
Out for Delivery Package is with the local carrier for delivery. USPS
Delivered Package has been delivered to the recipient. USPS

How to Expedite the Shipping Process After Label Creation

To ensure the package moves quickly from the “awaiting item” status to being accepted by USPS, consider the following actions:

  • Prompt drop-off: Deliver the package to a USPS location as soon as possible.
  • Schedule a pickup: Arrange for USPS to collect the package from your address.
  • Double-check label information: Confirm all shipment details are accurate to avoid delays.
  • Communicate with buyers: If shipping for an online sale, notify the buyer about the label creation and expected ship date.
  • Use USPS service alerts: Monitor USPS updates for any service disruptions or delays in your area.

By proactively managing these steps, senders can reduce the time their package remains in the “awaiting item” status and improve overall delivery speed.

Understanding the Status: Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item

When you see the status “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” in your tracking information, it indicates a specific stage in the USPS shipping process. This status means that the shipping label has been generated by the sender, but the physical package has not yet been received or scanned by USPS.

Here is a detailed explanation of what this status entails:

  • Label Generation: The sender has purchased and printed a USPS shipping label, which is the first step in the shipping process.
  • Package Not Yet in USPS Custody: Despite the label being created, the package has not been physically handed over to USPS or scanned at any USPS facility.
  • Tracking Information Pending Update: USPS tracking systems will only update once the package is scanned during acceptance or pickup.

It is important to note that the time between label creation and USPS receipt can vary based on the sender’s shipping method, package drop-off time, and USPS operational schedules.

Common Reasons for the “Awaiting Item” Status

The status can remain on “Awaiting Item” for several reasons, often related to logistics or timing. Some common causes include:

Reason Description Typical Resolution Time
Package Not Yet Dropped Off The sender has created the label but has not dropped the package at a USPS facility or scheduled pickup. Varies; until sender drops off or USPS picks up
Pickup Scheduled but Not Completed The package is awaiting USPS pickup at the sender’s location. Usually same day or next business day
Delay in USPS Scanning Package received but scanning delayed due to operational backlog or errors. Hours to 1-2 days
Incorrect Label Usage Label created but package is not yet prepared or attached, causing delay in USPS processing. Until sender corrects or resubmits

What Actions Can Be Taken If the Status Remains Unchanged?

If the status “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” persists longer than expected, the following steps may help resolve the issue:

  • Contact the Sender: Verify that the package has been dropped off or that a pickup has occurred as planned.
  • Check Pickup Schedules: If a USPS pickup was scheduled, confirm with the sender or USPS that it was completed successfully.
  • Allow Time for Scanning: USPS scanning may sometimes be delayed by operational issues; waiting 24-48 hours can be beneficial.
  • Reach Out to USPS Customer Service: For prolonged delays, contacting USPS can clarify if the package is in their system or if further action is needed.

Impact on Delivery Timeline and Expectations

Understanding this status helps set realistic expectations regarding delivery:

  • No Transit Progress: Since USPS has not received the package, the shipment’s transit clock has not started.
  • Delivery Estimate Not Yet Active: Estimated delivery dates are usually calculated from the time USPS scans the package into their system.
  • Potential Delays: Any delay in handing over the package to USPS will directly impact the overall delivery time.

Senders and recipients should coordinate to ensure the package is promptly given to USPS to avoid unnecessary delays.

Expert Insights on USPS Shipping Label Status: “Awaiting Item”

Jessica Martinez (Logistics Analyst, National Shipping Association). The status “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” indicates that the sender has generated a shipping label but has not yet handed the package over to USPS. This is a common preliminary step in the shipping process, and it means the package tracking will not update further until USPS physically receives the item.

Dr. Alan Chen (Supply Chain Management Professor, State University). From a supply chain perspective, this status often reflects a delay between label creation and item drop-off. It is important for shippers to ensure timely handoff to USPS to avoid shipment delays. Customers seeing this status should understand it does not imply the package is lost, but rather that it is still awaiting acceptance into the USPS network.

Monica Patel (Senior Operations Manager, USPS). When you see “Awaiting Item” after a shipping label is created, it means the label exists in our system but the package has not yet been scanned into our facilities. This can happen if the sender prints labels in advance or schedules a pickup but the item has not been collected. We recommend senders ensure prompt drop-off or pickup to expedite processing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” mean?
This status indicates that the shipping label has been generated in the USPS system, but the package has not yet been received or scanned by USPS for processing.

How long does it take for USPS to update the status after label creation?
Typically, it takes 1 to 3 business days for USPS to receive and scan the package after the label is created, depending on the sender’s drop-off or pickup schedule.

Can the package be tracked before USPS scans it?
No, tracking information will not update until USPS physically accepts and scans the package into their system.

Should I be concerned if the status remains “Awaiting Item” for several days?
If the status does not change after 5 business days, it is advisable to contact the sender or USPS to verify the package’s location and ensure it was dropped off properly.

What steps can I take if the package is delayed at the “Awaiting Item” stage?
Contact the sender to confirm shipment and drop-off details, and consider reaching out to USPS customer service to inquire about any potential delays or issues.

Does “Shipping Label Created” guarantee that the package is in transit?
No, it only confirms that the label exists in the USPS system; the package must be physically received and scanned by USPS before it is considered in transit.
The status “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” indicates that the sender has generated a shipping label for the package, but the United States Postal Service (USPS) has not yet received the physical item. This status is common in the initial stages of the shipping process and does not necessarily mean the package is lost or delayed. It simply reflects that the label is ready, and the parcel is pending drop-off or pickup by USPS.

Understanding this status helps manage expectations regarding package tracking and delivery timelines. It is important for senders and recipients to recognize that the tracking information will not update further until USPS physically accepts the item into their system. Delays in this stage often occur due to the sender not dropping off the package promptly or scheduling a pickup that has not yet occurred.

In summary, “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” is a routine status that signals the beginning of the shipping process. Monitoring this status and ensuring timely handoff of the package to USPS can help avoid unnecessary delays. For recipients, patience is advised until the item is scanned into the USPS network, after which more detailed tracking updates will become available.

Author Profile

Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw
Marc Shaw is the author behind Voilà Stickers, an informative space built around real world understanding of stickers and everyday use. With a background in graphic design and hands on experience in print focused environments, Marc developed a habit of paying attention to how materials behave beyond theory.

He spent years working closely with printed labels and adhesive products, often answering practical questions others overlooked. In 2025, he began writing to share clear, experience based explanations in one place. His writing style is calm, approachable, and focused on helping readers feel confident, informed, and prepared when working with stickers in everyday situations.