How to Get a Refund for Late Delivery on Priority Mail Express

We’ve all been in a position where we need something shipped in a rush, whether it be a forgotten birthday gift or a last-minute holiday present. This includes your customers. There will be times customers might ask for expedited shipping on an order, so it can arrive in time for a special occasion. Priority Mail Express® is a great carrier service for customers in need of expedited delivery. Plus, Priority Mail Express® includes a guaranteed delivery date, so you can request a refund if your package doesn’t arrive within the given delivery window.
Features of Priority Mail Express®
Priority Mail Express® includes:
- A next-day to 2-day delivery guarantee (by 6PM)
- Flat rate packaging options and free supplies from USPS
- Tracking throughout your shipment’s entire transit
- Up to $100 worth of shipment insurance included
- The option for holiday and Sunday delivery for an extra cost
Additionally, Priority Mail Express® includes a money-back guarantee. However, it’s worth noting that Priority Mail Express® refund requests do take other factors into consideration like the recipient’s zip code and when your package was dropped off. USPS provides a free Service Commitments tool, so you can see which services are guaranteed as well as estimated delivery dates for each available USPS service. More information about Priority Mail Express® refund requests can be found on the USPS website.

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Priority Mail Express® refunds
If your Priority Mail Express® shipment doesn’t arrive on time and meets USPS requirements, you can request a refund for the shipping costs of your package. Refund requests can be submitted through the USPS website, and you’ll need to create a free account to start the process.
Priority Mail Express® refunds need to be submitted within 2-30 days of the date the package was mailed*, and you’ll need the receipt and tracking number to successfully submit the request. You can find your postage receipt through these steps:
- Login to Stamps.com
- Click on the History tab on your dashboard
- Select Search Print History
- Locate the tracking number for the order you’re requesting the refund for
- Click on the info box (i) next to the tracking number
- Print the physical copy of your receipt*
*Note: For those using the Stamps.com software, you’ll first click Search on the left-hand side of your screen and then click the info box next to the correct tracking number to generate your receipt.
Priority Mail Express International® refunds
Like Priority Mail Express®, certain Priority Mail Express International® are eligible for refund requests. One of the biggest differences between the two is that refund requests for Priority Mail Express International® shipments can only be submitted for the following countries:

Priority Mail Express International® shipments will also need to be filed with USPS directly through their website and must be submitted within 3-90 days of when your package was shipped.
Conclusion
Priority Mail Express® gives customers an expedited shipping option, so their packages can arrive quickly. Also, the option to request a refund for eligible shipments provides a safeguard for your business if the package arrives late. If you’re an international shipper, Priority Mail Express International® can be offered to your customers as an expedited option and includes a similar refund request option for eligible packages. Help your customers receive their packages in the nick of time with Priority Mail Express® and Priority Mail Express International ®.
Summary: How to Get a Refund for Late Delivery on Priority Mail Express (Step‑by‑Step)
If your Priority Mail Express shipment arrives late despite the guaranteed delivery, you may be eligible for a refund. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Confirm your delivery was late
Check the tracking status and delivery timestamp against the guaranteed delivery date. If the item was delivered after the promised date/time, you may qualify.
Step 2: Locate your receipt and tracking number
You’ll need your shipping receipt and the tracking number. In Stamps.com, go to History → Search Print History → Info (i) to find it.
Step 3: Submit refund request to USPS
Visit the USPS refund request portal. Fill out the form within 2 to 30 days from the mailing date, providing your tracking number, receipt, and any required details.
Step 4: Monitor refund status
USPS will review your request. If approved, you’ll receive a refund for your postage costs. Check your email or USPS account for updates.
Step 5: Consider international exceptions (if applicable)
If your shipment is international via Priority Mail Express International, refund claims might follow different deadlines (e.g. 3–90 days) and rules.
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