My package was stolen or never arrived

Look around: porch, side doors, garage, mailroom, and with neighbors. Check for a delivery photo in the tracking details.

Why: Many 'missing' packages were left nearby or at the wrong door.

Save the tracking page, delivery photo and order confirmation. Save any doorbell camera video.

Why: These prove what happened.

If you answered “Delivered” to “What does tracking say?”

If you saw someone take it, or have video, file a police report and get the report number.

Why: Sellers, card issuers and insurers often ask for it.

Contact the seller (not just the carrier). Ask for a replacement or refund and note what they say.

Why: The seller hired the carrier and often has a process for missing deliveries.

If you answered “U.S. Postal Service” to “Who delivered it (or was supposed to)?”

For USPS, submit a Missing Mail search request (starting 7 days after mailing). If it was insured, file a claim; USPS says claims must be filed no later than 60 days from the mailing date.

Why: These are USPS's own deadlines.

If you answered “U.S. Postal Service” to “Who delivered it (or was supposed to)?”

For theft of mail or a USPS package, report it to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service online or at 1-877-876-2455.

Why: Postal inspectors investigate mail and package theft.

If you answered “UPS, FedEx, Amazon or another carrier” to “Who delivered it (or was supposed to)?”

For UPS, FedEx, Amazon or other carriers, file a missing-package report with the carrier through its website or app.

Why: Each carrier has its own claim steps and time limits.

If you answered “Credit card” to “How did you pay?”

If the seller won't fix it, dispute the charge with your card issuer as goods not delivered. Send it in writing so it arrives within 60 days after the first statement with the charge.

Why: This is a billing error under the Fair Credit Billing Act.

If you answered “Not delivered or stuck” to “What does tracking say?”

If the item never shipped or is very late, the seller must ship within the time it promised (or 30 days if it didn't say; 50 days if you applied for credit with the seller to pay), or tell you and offer you the choice to cancel for a refund.

Why: This is the FTC's Mail, Internet, or Telephone Order Merchandise Rule.

Check whether your homeowner's or renter's insurance covers stolen packages (deductibles often make small claims not worth it).

Why: Some policies cover theft of personal property.

File a complaint with your state attorney general's consumer office if the seller refuses to refund an item that never arrived.

Why: They can contact the seller for you.

To prevent repeats, use a package locker, Hold for Pickup at the post office, or require a signature.

Why: USPIS recommends picking up packages promptly or holding them for pickup.