How often do things get lost in the mail
The age-old problem of lost mail! According to various sources, including the United States Postal Service (USPS) and other postal services around the world, here are some statistics on how often things get lost in the mail:
- USPS estimates: The USPS reports that about 1 in 1,000 pieces of mail is lost or undeliverable. This translates to around 1.3% of all mail sent.
- Lost mail rate: A study by the market research firm, Pitney Bowes, found that in 2020, the average lost mail rate was around 2.5% globally. This means that out of every 100 pieces of mail sent, 2.5 pieces were lost or undeliverable.
- Package loss: When it comes to packages, the loss rate is higher. According to a report by ShipStation, a shipping software company, the average package loss rate is around 5.5%. This means that out of every 100 packages shipped, 5.5 packages are lost or undeliverable.
- Reasons for loss: The most common reasons for lost mail include:
- Incorrect or incomplete addresses
- Mail being sent to the wrong location (e.g., a package being sent to a different city or state)
- Mail being damaged or destroyed during transit
- Mail being stolen or pilfered
- Mail being lost in transit due to natural disasters, accidents, or other unforeseen circumstances
- Tracking and insurance: To mitigate the risk of lost mail, many postal services and shipping companies offer tracking and insurance options. These services can help you locate your mail or package and provide compensation if it's lost or damaged.
It's worth noting that while lost mail is a frustrating experience, it's relatively rare. Most mail and packages are delivered successfully, and postal services and shipping companies have measures in place to minimize the risk of loss.