USPS Tracking
USPS Tracking shows scans of a package moving through the network to delivery. It is included on Ground Advantage, Priority Mail, and Priority Mail Express at no extra charge, and it is not available on ordinary letters. See DMM 503.
What is Certified Mail?
Certified Mail gives you proof of mailing and a delivery record (delivered or attempted), with a unique number to track. It is common for legal notices, compliance, and important documents. It can be added to First-Class Mail or Priority Mail but is not available on Ground Advantage, and it is often paired with Return Receipt. See DMM 503.
Return Receipt
Proof of delivery showing who signed and when, as a mailed green card or an electronic (email/PDF) version. Added to Certified, Registered, insured, or Priority Mail Express items. See DMM 503.
What is Registered Mail?
Registered Mail is the most secure option, for valuables and irreplaceable items: it has a chain of custody and indemnity up to a high value. The added handling makes it slower. Available on First-Class Mail or Priority Mail only. See DMM 503.
Certificate of Mailing
Low-cost proof that an item was mailed on a given date. It does not prove delivery. Useful when only evidence of sending is needed. See DMM 503.
Signature Confirmation
Requires and records the recipient's signature; available electronically at a lower fee than at the counter. Adult Signature Required is a stricter variant. Added to packages, including Ground Advantage. See DMM 503.
Insurance
Covers loss or damage up to a declared value (up to $5,000). Ground Advantage and Priority Mail include $100; more can be purchased. See DMM 503.
Which USPS extra service do I need?
For a delivery record on documents, Certified (add Return Receipt for a signed proof). For valuables, Registered. For only proof of sending, Certificate of Mailing. For packages, Tracking is built in; add Signature Confirmation or extra Insurance as needed. Exact fees are in Notice 123; the estimator or a rep can confirm.