Carrier Claims Program Guide

The USPS Carrier Claims Program allows EasyPost to automatically file claims with USPS for eligible lost or damaged shipments. No manual claim submission is required when enrolled in this program. Reimbursement is based on the declared value of the goods, and an administrative fee is only applied to successful claims.

For USPS shipments, EasyPost allows product-level data to be passed at shipment creation via the line_items field. This field enables EasyPost to internally retain total_line_value and item_description to support the carrier claim process. These values are not sent to the carrier and do not appear in the shipment API response.

• Enrollment in the USPS Carrier Claims Program.
• Shipment must be created through EasyPost using a supported USPS service (e.g., Priority Mail®, Priority Mail Express®, Ground Advantage).

To enable claims automation, include the following item-level data using the line_items array when creating USPS shipments.

Each object within line_items must include:

• total_line_value (string): The total value of the items line.
• item_description (string): A brief description of the item.

• This field is for USPS shipments only.
• Data must be passed at the time of shipment creation.
• Values are not submitted to the carrier and do not appear in the API response.

• Include line_items when shipping via USPS if carrier claims may be required.
• Use concise product descriptions and accurate item values.
• Retain proof of value and images of the packaging and product.

Q: What is a carrier claim?

A request for reimbursement submitted to the shipping carrier when a shipment is lost or damaged.

Q: Is manual claim submission required?

No. EasyPost automatically submits USPS claims for enrolled customers. However, if product value data was not provided at the time of shipment creation (such as the line_items field), supporting documentation may be required via the EasyPost Dashboard. Refer to the Carrier Claims - Bulk Upload Product Values article for more information.

Q: What happens after a claim is submitted?

USPS reviews and processes the claim. Approved reimbursements are applied as credits to the EasyPost account.

Q: Is line_items supported for all carriers?

No. This functionality is only available for USPS shipments.

Q: Will line_items appear in the API response?

No. Data is retained internally and not returned in the API response.