There are a couple of reasons that a USPS tracking number might reflect a "Delivered" status right away, even though you just received the tracking number. It could be either the USPS assigned a recycled tracking number to your shipment or the USPS scanned the shipment incorrectly.
Recycled Tracking Number
Recently, USPS has started reusing previous tracking numbers due to the sheet volume of packages in their system. Tracking numbers are now eligible to be recycled after 120 days and can frequently show the tracking history for the old package until the shipment is scanned into the first USPS sorting center and the system is updated.
To check if this is the case, look up the details of the tracking number. Usually, you will see a different destination and delivery time when compared to your label details. There may also be a note in the tracking information stating the label is "Archived."
Don't worry, this doesn't mean we shipped your package to the wrong address! This situation may happen because of the high volume of shipments sent through USPS. Tracking numbers get recycled occasionally. The solution to this issue is to wait until the Post Office scans the label, then the tracking information will update accordingly.
USPS incorrect Scanning
If the tracking information has the correct address, then it is likely a clerical error for the Post Office. If their scanner was set to "Delivered" instead of "Accepted" during the scan, it will update the tracking information with the delivered status.
Unfortunately, this does mean that the tracking number will not update in subsequent scans of the label. However, a USPS customer service representative should be able to provide you with updates via their internal tracking database.
Bright Brain does not control the shipping processes or operations of our delivery companies but can answer any questions you might have to the best of our ability. You can also contact the shipping service company directly using this handy guide from our FAQ by clicking here.