Originally posted by ESC: USPS typically doesn't give out real tracking numbers, they use delivery confirmation numbers which only enter the system when the item is delivered.
I was about to post about this. Good point ESC. Main reason I don't think that USPS tracking systems are very helpful, specially with slower services such as standard and first class. You don't see anything "recorded in their system" till the package hits dead front door floor matt. Priority and Express mail have similar tracking characteristics, but are much more guaranteed services and have a 99.9% success ratio to meet the time of delivery promised, unlike UPS.
Fedex is pretty good but for the price of $7.70 you can send an item in a large flat rate box (USPS) with a 2-3 day transit vs the same price and a 7 day delivery through FedEx or UPS ground.
