USPS® tracking label changes are coming. Here's how to prepare

USPS tracking labels are changing. Learn what the Label 888 phaseout means for mailers and how to prepare with integrated shipping labels.
SendTech Staff Writer
10/16/2026 Mailing

The USPS has proposed a timeline that will phase out several pre-printed tracking, signature, and insurance labels commonly used alongside meter strips. According to the Federal Register, labels will no longer be available for purchase starting January 17 2027 and existing labels will no longer be accepted by USPS starting January 31 2028. While the deadlines are still subject to final USPS rulemaking, organizations that rely on these labels should begin planning now to avoid future disruptions.

Steps

What's changing?

The USPS has proposed discontinuing several labels that businesses use to add tracking, signature confirmation, and insurance services to mail pieces and packages.

The proposed labels include:

  • Label 888: USPS Tracking
  • Label 889: Signature Confirmation
  • Label 891: Insurance up to $500
  • Label 892: Insurance over $500

When is it changing?*

  • January 17, 2027: Labels will no longer be available for purchase
  • January 31, 2028: Existing labels will no longer be accepted by USPS

*Dates remain subject to change pending final USPS rulemaking.

What This Means for Mailers

If your organization currently uses these tracking labels with meter mail or packages, now is the time to evaluate alternative workflows. Waiting until the labels are unavailable could create unnecessary operational challenges. By planning ahead, organizations can ensure continuity while taking advantage of newer mailing and shipping capabilities.

A Better Alternative with IMpb Labels Rather than applying a meter strip and a separate tracking label, many organizations are transitioning to 4" x 6" integrated shipping labels. These labels combine postage and tracking information into a single label, simplifying preparation while providing shipment visibility. Benefits can include:

  • Built-in USPS tracking 
  • Simplified mail and package preparation
  • Fewer manual steps 
  • Better tracking visibility 
  • Improved reporting and record keeping 
  • Access to commercial shipping rates and discounts when using services like PitneyShip.

Why Act Now? 

Postal changes often create urgency, but they can also create opportunities. Organizations that transition early can: 

  • Avoid last-minute process changes 
  • Train employees ahead of deadlines 
  • Streamline mailing and shipping workflows
  • Improve package tracking visibility 
  • Potentially reduce shipping costs