In an effort to make mail more secure, the USPS will restrict access to tracking information for packages. Currently, anyone who has a tracking number (not just the shipper or the recipient) can enter the number into the tracking tool on the USPS website and have complete visibility into the status of the shipped packaged. That will remain unchanged, but service providers that currently access tracking information through USPS APIs may have to jump through some hoops, and in some cases, may even have to pay fees to the Postal Service.
A USPS spokesperson confirmed to EcommerceBytes, “Consumers will continue to be able to check the status of packages on usps.com. There are no changes to how consumers look up package information – the ability to track and inquire about packages on our website is not restricted to shippers.”
He explained that “The new restrictions apply to large data extracts and the use of our API, which are typically used by commercial businesses to integrate tracking information into their own systems.”
The USPS announced in a recent DMM advisory that it was introducing enhanced security for tracking data in April 2026. The USPS spokesperson said the modifications aim to secure tracking data while ensuring that both shippers and receivers maintain the visibility they require. “This approach allows shippers to retain the access they need, while ensuring that only authorized parties can view tracking data, thereby preventing unauthorized usage,” he said.
He provided the following information about how the changes that will impact shippers, recipients, and service providers:
- For Package Recipients: No changes. Consumers will still be able to access tracking information on usps.com, the USPS Mobile app, and the Informed Delivery platform.
- For Commercial Shippers and Label Providers: No changes. Shippers and label providers who purchase postage will continue to receive tracking events at no cost. Free tracking data is provided for packages linked to mailer IDs (MIDs) that they own or are authorized to use for label production.
- For Service Providers: USPS will offer paid access to the Tracking API for MIDs through its API platform. This access requires a signed Intellectual Property (IP) agreement, a monthly fee, and compliance with other terms specified in the agreement. Service providers can only access tracking data for MIDs they own or are authorized to use, unless they have a signed IP agreement granting permission to access other MIDs.
The spokesperson told us, “These updates are designed to bolster the security of tracking information and the mail system” and referred us to the Industry Alert for more information.
