
Theft of mail and packages is a frustrating and costly issue for many people. According to the article, USPS insurance does cover theft of mail and packages.
USPS insurance provides coverage for lost, damaged, or stolen mail and packages. This includes packages that are stolen from a mailbox or porch.
If you're a victim of mail theft, you'll need to file a claim with USPS to get reimbursed. The process can be lengthy, so it's essential to keep all documentation related to the incident.
USPS has a process in place to investigate and resolve claims related to stolen mail and packages.
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USPS Insurance Coverage
USPS insurance covers the value of the package, but not shipping fees or taxes. It's essential to review the policy carefully to ensure your package qualifies for coverage.
You can add insurance to your package when printing your shipping label online or at a local post office, but the cost varies based on the package's value and the level of coverage chosen. Higher package values result in higher insurance costs.
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Certain items, such as perishable goods, hazardous materials, and live animals, may not be eligible for USPS insurance. It's crucial to note that USPS insurance only covers the value of the package, not any additional costs.
The waiting period before filing a claim differs depending on the shipping method, but in most cases, you have up to 60 days. This allows USPS to determine if the package was merely delayed or lost or stolen.
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Declared Value Coverage
Declared Value Coverage is a crucial aspect of USPS insurance. You can add this coverage to your package when you print your shipping label via the USPS website or at your local post office.
The cost of insurance varies based on the value of the package and the level of coverage you select. Higher package values will result in higher insurance costs.
USPS offers a basic plan that covers up to $5,000, but it's often not enough to protect high-value or sensitive items. You can also consider purchasing additional insurance through third-party providers, like U-Pic, which offers coverage for shipments sent worldwide by major shipping carriers.
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If you're shipping items worth more than $100, it's recommended to get extra coverage. Most carrier basic plans don't offer enough protection, and experts suggest that you should think about extra protection for packages over $100.
Here are some times when you should consider extra protection:
- Shipping items worth more than $100
- Transporting fragile or irreplaceable merchandise
- Sending packages to regions with elevated theft rates
- Mailing collectibles, fine art, or expensive jewelry
Third-party shipping insurance costs between 0.5% to 4% of an item's value, which is a small investment that can provide significant peace of mind for valuable shipments that might be vulnerable during transit.
Package Coverage Details
USPS Insurance Coverage offers protection for your packages, and it's essential to understand the details.
The default liability limit for USPS is $100 without a value declaration.
You can purchase shipping insurance for expensive items like jewelry and electronics, giving you more protection.
USPS claims will cover the shipping costs and package value for damaged or lost mail if you bought insurance.
The waiting period for filing a claim with USPS is up to 60 days, depending on the shipping method.
This waiting period helps USPS determine if the package was delayed or lost, ensuring they only pay claims they need to.
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Purchasing and Filing Claims
If you need to file a claim for theft, you can do so online, by phone, or in-person at your local post office.
The USPS offers a simple and straightforward claims process that can be completed in just a few steps. You'll need to provide some basic information about your package and the circumstances of the theft.
To initiate the process, you'll need to have your claim number handy, which can be found on the claim form or by contacting USPS customer service.
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Purchasing USPS Insurance for Packages
You can add insurance to your package when you print your shipping label via the USPS website or at your local post office.
The cost of insurance varies based on the value of the package and the level of coverage you select, with higher package values resulting in higher insurance costs.
USPS insurance only covers the value of the package, not any additional costs such as shipping fees or taxes.
Certain items, like perishable goods, hazardous materials, and live animals, may not be eligible for USPS insurance.
Carefully reviewing the USPS insurance policy before purchasing is recommended to ensure your package qualifies for coverage.
How to File a Claim for Damaged/Lost Package
Filing a claim for a damaged or lost package through USPS is a relatively straightforward process. You'll need to provide proof of the package's value, such as a sales receipt, and payment of the insurance fees.
Claims can be filed online through the USPS Claims Center or at your local post office. It’s crucial to file your claim as soon as possible, as there are time restrictions for filing.
Filing a claim does not guarantee compensation. USPS will investigate the claim to determine if the package was lost or damaged due to their negligence.
You have up to 60 days to file a claim, which is the waiting period to ensure the package wasn’t merely delayed versus lost or stolen.
If approved, you will receive compensation for the value of the package and the cost of shipping. If the claim is denied, you have the option to appeal the decision or pursue legal action against USPS.
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Third-Party Insurance Options

If USPS insurance policies don't meet your needs, you have other options. Third-party insurance providers can offer higher coverage limits and additional benefits.
USPS insurance only covers the value of the package, not shipping fees or taxes, so third-party policies may be a better fit for high-value shipments. For example, companies like FedEx and UPS provide insurance options.
Carefully review the policy before purchasing to ensure your package qualifies for coverage. Certain items, like perishable goods, hazardous materials, and live animals, may not be eligible for USPS insurance.
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Package Theft and Responsibility
UPS gives basic protection that changes based on what you say your package is worth, with a default liability limit of $100 without value declaration.
If you're the seller and you purchased insurance on the parcel, you can get a refund for a stolen USPS package. This is a crucial detail to keep in mind when shipping valuable items.
The onus is on the shipper to replace or refund the stolen item, unless the package was insured. In many cases, the shipper must make it right, not USPS.
Here's a summary of who's responsible for a stolen package:
USPS will not reimburse you for the loss if you're the recipient, but the seller should make it right. This is just part of doing business with USPS.
Courier Insurance
Courier insurance is a specialized policy that offers broader coverage and higher limits compared to standard USPS insurance. Companies like Shipsurance provide these policies, which can include coverage for lost, damaged, or stolen packages beyond what USPS provides.
These policies are ideal for those who frequently ship high-value items. Shipping platforms like Shippo and ShipStation also offer built-in insurance options and discounted rates on shipping labels, providing more flexibility and cost savings for your shipping needs.
Third-party shipping insurance costs between 0.5% to 4% of an item’s value, which is a small investment for valuable shipments that might be vulnerable during transit.
When USPS Packages Are Stolen
If your USPS package is stolen, you can initiate a help request and/or a Missing Mail Search Request. This will help the USPS investigate the issue.
The onus is often on the shipper to replace or refund the stolen item. However, if you purchased insurance, you may be able to receive compensation from USPS after a claim is filed and approved.
You should keep reading to learn more about your options and how to prevent package theft.
USPS insurance only covers the value of the package, not additional costs like shipping fees or taxes. Certain items, such as perishable goods, hazardous materials, and live animals, may not be eligible for USPS insurance.
If your package is stolen, you typically have 60 days to file a claim. This waiting period allows USPS to determine if the package was merely delayed versus lost or stolen.
Here are some steps you can take if your USPS package is stolen:
- File a claim with USPS
- Provide proof of purchase and value
- Wait for USPS to investigate and approve your claim
Note that the specific process and requirements may vary depending on your location and the type of insurance you purchased.
Who Is Responsible for Missing Parcels?
The seller or shipper takes on the responsibility for a refund or replacement when a package gets stolen or goes missing. This is the case whether the package was stolen from the shipper's location or from the recipient's doorstep.
In many cases, the onus is on the shipper to replace or refund the stolen item. This can be a significant burden, especially for small business owners.
If you suspect or have proof of a stolen package, you should reach out to the seller immediately. This is the best course of action to resolve the issue quickly.
The seller is responsible for reimbursing the recipient or replacing the item that was stolen. This is part of the price of doing business, as the consensus is that the seller must make it right.
Refunds and Prevention
If you're the seller and you purchased insurance on the parcel, you can get a refund for a stolen USPS package.
You can't get a refund if you're the recipient and your package was stolen, as USPS won't reimburse you for the loss.
The onus is on the seller to reimburse you or replace the item that was stolen.
You have up to 60 days to file a claim for a lost or stolen package, and the waiting period is to ensure the package wasn't merely delayed.
USPS insurance covers shipping costs and package value for damaged or lost mail, but only if you bought insurance.
Evidence and Claims Process
If you've had a package stolen from your doorstep, you're probably wondering if USPS insurance will cover the loss. The good news is that USPS does offer insurance for packages, but it's not a guarantee that you'll be reimbursed for the full value of your stolen item.
USPS insurance requires a claim to be filed within 60 days of the package's expected delivery date, so be sure to act quickly if you suspect your package has been stolen. This timeframe is specified in the USPS insurance policy.
To file a claim, you'll need to provide proof of purchase, a description of the stolen item, and any relevant documentation, such as a police report. The USPS claims process can be time-consuming and may require additional information from you.
USPS will review your claim and may request additional documentation before making a decision. If your claim is approved, you can expect to receive reimbursement for the value of your stolen item.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What items does USPS insurance not cover?
USPS insurance does not cover perishable, flammable, or fragile items that can't withstand normal handling. These items are not eligible for insurance coverage, so be sure to check the guidelines before shipping.
Sources
- https://www.refundretriever.com/blog/holiday-stolen-package
- https://parcelpath.com/does-ups-insurance-cover-theft/
- https://www.shipscience.com/are-usps-packages-insured-a-comprehensive-guide/
- https://www.preventpackagetheft.com/blog/usps-package-stolen-from-porch
- https://querysprout.com/what-happens-when-usps-package-is-stolen/
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