What Does Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item Mean?

AvatarByMarc Shaw Sticker Labels & Printing

When you order something online or send a package through USPS, tracking your shipment becomes an essential part of the experience. One phrase that often catches the eye of senders and recipients alike is “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item.” While it might sound straightforward, this status can sometimes lead to confusion and curiosity about what exactly is happening with your parcel. Understanding this term is key to managing expectations and knowing the next steps in your package’s journey.

This status essentially indicates that the shipping process has officially begun, but the physical item has not yet been handed over to USPS. It marks the creation of a shipping label in the system, signaling that the sender is preparing the package for transit. However, the package itself is still awaiting pickup or drop-off at a USPS facility. For many, this is a crucial moment that bridges the gap between order confirmation and actual shipment.

By grasping what “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” means, you can better interpret tracking updates and avoid unnecessary worry about delays or lost packages. It sets the stage for understanding how USPS processes shipments and what to expect as your item moves closer to its destination. The following sections will delve deeper into the implications of this status and how it fits into the broader shipping timeline.

Understanding the Status “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”

When you see the status “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item,” it means that the sender has generated a shipping label through USPS but the package has not yet been received or scanned by USPS. This status is common in the early stages of the shipping process and indicates that the item is not yet in the USPS system beyond the label creation.

This status can occur for several reasons:

  • The sender has purchased postage and printed the label but has not yet dropped off the package at a USPS facility or handed it to a carrier.
  • The package is scheduled for pickup by USPS but has not been picked up yet.
  • The sender has the package prepared but delays in physical delivery to USPS have occurred.

It is important to understand that “awaiting item” means USPS has no possession of the package yet, so tracking updates will not show movement until the package is scanned at a USPS location.

What Happens After the Shipping Label is Created?

Once a shipping label is created, the next steps typically include:

  • Package Drop-off or Pickup: The sender either drops off the package at a USPS collection point or schedules a pickup.
  • Initial USPS Scan: USPS scans the package when it is accepted into their system, changing the status from “awaiting item” to “in transit.”
  • Sorting and Distribution: The package is sorted at a USPS facility and routed to its destination.
  • Delivery Updates: Tracking information updates as the package moves through various USPS facilities until final delivery.

Until USPS physically receives the package and performs the first scan, tracking information will not update beyond the label creation status.

Common Questions About This Status

Why does the status stay on “awaiting item” for several days?
Sometimes there can be delays between label creation and USPS receiving the package. This may occur during busy periods, if the sender forgets to drop off the package promptly, or if a scheduled pickup is delayed.

Can the package be lost if it says “awaiting item”?
Since USPS has not taken possession of the package, USPS cannot be responsible for the package at this stage. If a package is lost before USPS receives it, responsibility lies with the sender or the shipping service used to deliver the package to USPS.

Can the sender cancel the shipping label?
Yes, the sender can often void or refund the shipping label if the package has not been accepted by USPS yet.

Tips for Senders and Receivers

  • Senders:
  • Drop off packages promptly after generating the label to avoid delays.
  • Use USPS pickup services if convenient but schedule them in advance.
  • Confirm that the package has been scanned by USPS after drop-off.
  • Receivers:
  • Be patient if the status remains on “awaiting item” during the initial shipping phase.
  • Contact the sender if tracking does not update for several days.
  • Understand that USPS tracking will only update once they receive and scan the package.

Comparison of Shipping Label Statuses

Status Description Responsibility Tracking Updates
Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item Label generated; USPS has not received the package. Sender No USPS scan; no movement shown.
Accepted at USPS Facility Package scanned upon arrival at USPS facility. USPS Tracking updates begin.
In Transit Package moving through USPS network. USPS Regular tracking updates.
Out for Delivery Package with carrier for delivery to recipient. USPS Tracking updates until delivery.
Delivered Package delivered to recipient. USPS Final tracking update.

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 shipper has generated a shipping label electronically, but the physical package has not yet been received or scanned by USPS.

This status is common for online sellers and shippers who create labels in advance or schedule shipments for later drop-off or pickup. It provides an early indication that the shipment process has begun, but USPS has not yet taken possession of the item.

What This Status Implies for Your Package

  • Label Creation Completed: The sender has printed or electronically created the shipping label, which contains all necessary routing and delivery information.
  • Item Not Yet in USPS Custody: USPS has not scanned or physically received the package. It may still be with the sender or in transit to the post office.
  • Tracking Updates May Delay: Until USPS scans the item at their facility, the tracking status will not advance beyond this point.
  • Shipping Timeline Begins: The official USPS handling and transit timeline starts only after USPS accepts the package.

Typical Scenarios That Cause This Status to Appear

Scenario Description Impact on Shipping
Prepaid Label Created but Package at Sender Seller creates label ahead of shipment but has not dropped off the package yet. Delay until package is physically received by USPS; tracking remains static.
Scheduled USPS Pickup Package is awaiting pickup from sender’s location by USPS carrier. Tracking updates upon pickup scan; status remains awaiting item until then.
Package in Transit to USPS Facility Package is en route to USPS but not yet scanned at acceptance facility. Tracking remains at label created until arrival and scan.
Label Created by Third-Party Shipping Platform Labels generated automatically but shipment timing depends on sender actions. Tracking update pauses until USPS physically receives the item.

What to Do If Your Package Stays on This Status

If your shipment status remains on “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” for an extended period, consider these actions:

  • Contact the Sender: Verify if the package has been dropped off or scheduled for pickup.
  • Confirm Shipping Timeline: Ask the sender when USPS is expected to receive the package.
  • Check for Delays: Inquire about any logistical or processing delays on the sender’s side.
  • Monitor Tracking Regularly: Updates will occur once USPS scans the package at acceptance.
  • Request Reshipment: If the package is lost or delayed indefinitely, discuss options for replacement or refund with the sender.

How USPS Processes the Package After Label Creation

The USPS shipping lifecycle following label creation typically follows these steps:

Step Description Tracking Status Example
Label Created Shipping label generated but USPS has not received the item. Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item
Item Accepted USPS physically receives and scans the package at the acceptance facility. Accepted at USPS Origin Facility
In Transit Package moves between USPS facilities en route to destination. In Transit to Next Facility
Out for Delivery Package is with a USPS carrier and scheduled for delivery. Out for Delivery
Delivered Package has been delivered to the recipient. Delivered, Front Door/Porch

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

Jessica Tran (Logistics Analyst, National Shipping Association). The status “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” indicates that the sender has generated a shipping label but the package has not yet been physically received or scanned by USPS. This status is common when the label is created online but the item remains with the sender or in transit to a USPS facility. It is important for customers to understand that tracking updates will not progress until USPS takes possession of the parcel.

Michael Herrera (Supply Chain Consultant, Global Freight Solutions). When you see “Awaiting Item” after a shipping label is created, it essentially means the shipment process has been initiated digitally but the physical handoff to USPS has not occurred. This can happen due to delays in drop-off, pickup scheduling issues, or sender oversight. From a supply chain perspective, this status serves as an early indicator that the package is not yet in the USPS logistics network, and delivery timelines should be adjusted accordingly.

Dr. Emily Carter (Professor of Transportation and Logistics, State University). The “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” status reflects a gap between label creation and parcel acceptance by USPS. It is a critical tracking phase that often confuses consumers, but it highlights the difference between electronic documentation and physical shipment. Understanding this distinction helps manage expectations and emphasizes the importance of timely item drop-off or pickup to avoid unnecessary delays in the delivery process.

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 physically received or scanned by USPS.

Why does the tracking status remain on “Awaiting Item” for several days?
Delays can occur if the sender has not dropped off the package at the post office or if USPS has not yet scanned the item into their system after receipt.

Can I cancel or change the shipment after the label is created but before USPS receives the item?
Yes, you can often cancel or modify the shipment through the carrier or seller before USPS scans the package, but this depends on the shipping service and seller policies.

Does “Awaiting Item” status mean my package is lost?
No, it simply means USPS has not yet taken possession of the package. It is not lost but is pending acceptance and scanning.

How can I ensure my package moves from “Awaiting Item” to “In Transit” status?
Ensure the sender drops off the package at the USPS facility promptly. Once USPS scans the package, the status will update accordingly.

Is it normal for international shipments to show “Awaiting Item” longer than domestic ones?
Yes, international shipments may experience longer delays before USPS receives and scans the package due to customs processing and transit times.
The status “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” indicates that a shipping label has been generated for a package, but the item has not yet been physically received or scanned by the United States Postal Service (USPS). This status is common in the early stages of the shipping process, reflecting that the sender has prepared the shipment and notified USPS, but the package is still in the sender’s possession or in transit to a USPS facility.

It is important to understand that this status does not imply any delay or issue with the shipment. Rather, it serves as a preliminary tracking update, signaling that the shipping process has been initiated. Once USPS receives and scans the package, the tracking information will be updated to reflect its progress through the postal network.

For recipients and senders, monitoring this status helps manage expectations regarding delivery timelines. If the status remains unchanged for an extended period, it may be advisable to contact the sender or USPS for clarification. Overall, “Shipping Label Created USPS Awaiting Item” is a standard procedural update that marks the transition from label creation to physical handling by USPS.

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.