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. 

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.

Don’t worry about IMI compliance with Stamps.com. Learn more