Disputing an underpaid package

If your package gets flagged for postage due by the new USPS Automated Package Verification (APV) system, what can you do? While this new machinery is state of the art and catches both underpaid and overpaid packages, there are situations where the scanning tool can have a false positive—a package will be flagged for being shortpaid even though the correct postage was applied.

If this happens to you, the USPS has a formal process for you to dispute the APV program:

Step #1: Locate your tracking number from the package that was flagged.

Step #2: Send an email to [email protected]. In the email, make sure you include the following info:

  • The USPS tracking number of the package
  • Your contact information
  • The reason for the dispute (please provide as much detail as possible).

If the USPS needs more info from you, they will contact you directly via email.

Expected Response Times from USPS

You should expect to get a response from the USPS regarding your disputed package within 2 to 5 business days, although the maximum time limit for adjudication will be 15 business days.

Other Info Regarding Automated Package Verification

  • The USPS will not be providing partial reversals. A customer dispute will either be approved or denied.
  • Stamps.com customers will get an email when the dispute is opened and a second email when the dispute has been approved or denied.
  • Approved rate adjustments for overpaid packages will be automatically applied to a customer’s Stamps.com account within 24 hours.
  • Coming Soon:  Stamps.com customers will soon see a one-step mechanism within the Reports/Print History to send the appropriate dispute info to the USPS.
Joaquin Ibanez
Joaquin Ibanez
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