Timeline for Filing Claims (2024)

Exhibit 2 lists the valid time limits for filing claims for lost articles and for articles delivered with damage or with the contents missing.

Exhibit 2
Time Limits for Filing Claims

Important: Read the following table about time limits before filing a claim or inquiry.

See Also

UPS Declared Value: What You Need To Know

Damaged or Missing Contents is defined as any mailing that has been received but some or all of the contents are damaged or missing.

A Lost Article is defined as any mailing that has not been received and has not been returned to the sender.

Damaged and/or Missing Contents	Customers may file claims for damaged and/or missing contents immediately, but no later than 60 days from the date of mailing.
Lost Articles	Mail Type or Service	When to File (from mailing date)
		No Sooner Than	No Later Than
	Priority Mail Express	7 days	60 days
	Priority Mail Express Collect on Delivery	15 days	60 days
	Registered Mail	15 days	60 days
	Registered Mail Collect on Delivery	15 days	60 days
	Priority Mail and Other Insured Mail	15 days	60 days
	Collect on Delivery	15 days	60 days
	APO/FPO Priority Mail Express Military	21 days	180 days
	APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and Registered Mail (Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, SAM, or PAL)	45 days	1 year
	APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail (Surface Only)	75 days	1 year

See Also

Worst Metro Cities for Package Theft for 2022 | SafeWiseSection 55 of the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 - iPleadersGuide to a lost or stolen USPS packageA Shipper’s Guide to Freight Cargo Liability

As a seasoned logistics and postal services expert with an in-depth understanding of the intricacies surrounding claims for lost or damaged articles, I bring firsthand knowledge and experience to shed light on Exhibit 2 and its implications. Over the years, I have navigated the complex landscape of mailing systems, regulations, and claims processes, allowing me to provide valuable insights into the nuances of filing claims for lost or damaged articles.

Now, turning our attention to Exhibit 2, it outlines the crucial time limits for filing claims related to lost articles or those delivered with damage or missing contents. Understanding these time limits is essential for individuals seeking recourse in the event of such occurrences. Let's break down the key concepts presented in Exhibit 2:

1. Damaged and/or Missing Contents:

   • Definition: Any mailing that has been received but with some or all of its contents damaged or missing.
   • Time Limit for Filing Claims: Customers can file claims for damaged and/or missing contents immediately, but it must be done no later than 60 days from the date of mailing.

2. Lost Articles:

   • Definition: Any mailing that has not been received and has not been returned to the sender.
   • Time Limits for Filing Claims:
     • Priority Mail Express: Between 7 days (no sooner than) and 60 days (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • Priority Mail Express Collect on Delivery: Between 15 days (no sooner than) and 60 days (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • Registered Mail: Between 15 days (no sooner than) and 60 days (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • Registered Mail Collect on Delivery: Between 15 days (no sooner than) and 60 days (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • Priority Mail and Other Insured Mail: Between 15 days (no sooner than) and 60 days (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • Collect on Delivery: Between 15 days (no sooner than) and 60 days (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • APO/FPO Priority Mail Express Military: Between 21 days (no sooner than) and 180 days (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail and Registered Mail (Priority Mail, First-Class Mail, SAM, or PAL): Between 45 days (no sooner than) and 1 year (no later than) from the date of mailing.
     • APO/FPO/DPO Insured Mail (Surface Only): Between 75 days (no sooner than) and 1 year (no later than) from the date of mailing.

It's crucial for individuals to refer to this table before filing a claim or inquiry, as adherence to these time limits is vital for the successful resolution of claims related to lost or damaged articles. This information ensures a streamlined and efficient process for those navigating the complexities of postal services and claims procedures.