What Does “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” Mean?

Have you ever been in a situation where you’ve sent out an item via USPS or expecting a package from USPS, but the tracking status says “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”? It can be confusing to know what this means and if your package is on its way. To help clarify this confusion, let’s explore what this tracking status means for your shipment.

When a shipment is sent through USPS, and the tracking status reads “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item,” it simply means that the USPS has received the label information to send the package, but they are still waiting for the item itself. 

In other words, this status does not mean that your package is in transit. It only means that the sender has created a shipping label, and the USPS is ready to process it once they receive the item. 

Why Does My Package Have the Status “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”?

There can be a few different reasons why your package may have the status “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item. 

One reason could be that the sender has created the label but they have not yet dropped off the package at a USPS shipping location. In this case, your item is still in the hands of the sender, and they would need to drop off the package in order for USPS to process it. 

Another reason your package may have this status is that it has been dropped off at a USPS shipping location, but it has not yet been scanned. Although it is rare, USPS can miss the initial scan, causing the tracking status to be stuck at  “Package Acceptance Pending.” In such cases, the status won’t change until the package arrives at a distribution center, where it will be scanned and processed. 

How Long Does the Status Stay on “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”?

It’s hard to say for sure how long this tracking status will stay on your package. 

If the sender has already passed your package to USPS, it could take anywhere from one day to a few days before USPS processes your package. Generally, this step doesn’t take more than three days.

If the delay is caused by issues on the USPS side, such as a missing scan or a jam in their system, then the package could be stuck on “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” for a little while. Depending on the exact reason, it could take anywhere from a few days to several weeks before the package is processed and sent out for delivery. 

Since every USPS office has its own processes and procedures, it can be hard to predict how long any particular tracking status will stay on your package. In such cases, your best bet is to contact USPS directly and see if they can provide some more insight into the situation. 

Is There a Reason to Worry When Seeing “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”?

There is usually no reason to worry when seeing “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” on your package.  In most cases, it simply means that the package is still in the hands of the sender or at a local USPS shipping location. In other words, your package is safe and will be processed soon. 

Plus, it’s not uncommon for retail stores to create labels beforehand but not drop off the package for several days afterward. This often happens when retailers have a set shipping schedule and send packages in batches. This can save them time, as the label information is already filled out and ready to be scanned when they do drop off the package. If you think this might be the case with your package, you can always contact the sender and ask them for more information. 

In any case, as long as there is no other information indicating a delay or problem with your package, you can be sure that it will arrive at its destination soon. 

However, if the package has been in this status for more than a week, it may be worth getting in touch with USPS to follow up and make sure everything is okay. 

How to Avoid Seeing “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”?

The best way to avoid seeing “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” on your package is to make sure that the sender drops off the package as soon as they create the label. You can always politely request the sender drop off the package as soon as possible.

If you are sending packages yourself, make sure to drop them off at a USPS shipping location right away. In addition, you can stay there until you’re sure they have been scanned and processed. This will ensure that the label is scanned and your package starts moving as soon as possible. 

Finally, it’s also a good idea to check the USPS tracking website regularly. This can help you keep an eye on your package and be aware of any potential delays or issues that may arise.  

What Is the Next Status After “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item”?

Once your package gets scanned and processed by USPS, the next tracking status will typically be “Shipment Accepted” or “Arrived at Post Office.” After that, your package will be sorted and sent out for delivery.

Conclusion

Seeing “Shipping Label Created, USPS Awaiting Item” on your package is perfectly normal and usually doesn’t imply any issues with the package. It typically takes no more than three days for USPS to process the package and move it along in their system. So, as long as you don’t see any other status indicating a problem or delay, you can be sure that your package should arrive soon.