USPS Confirmed They Lost I130-485 Package

Hi everyone,

A week ago, we mailed our concurrent I-130/I-485 package via USPS Priority Mail Express (2-day delivery). For the last five days, there have been no tracking updates beyond “package left origin facility.” After multiple calls and escalations, we received written confirmation from USPS today that they conducted a search across all relevant facilities and could not locate the package. They have officially deemed it lost, closed our help inquiry, and instructed us to file a claim.

We understand that USPS might eventually find the package, but it could take weeks—or longer. We don’t want to wait indefinitely and are preparing to submit a new package. We’ve already contacted our civil surgeon, who has agreed to issue a new sealed form. However, we’re worried about two possibilities: 1. USPS eventually finds the original package and delivers it to the USCIS Lockbox instead of returning it to us (despite our explicit request). 2. The original package was already delivered but wasn’t scanned properly after the regional facility, leaving us unaware of its status.

Here Are Our Main Concerns: • What happens if we submit a new application to USCIS, but they later receive the original package? • Could it cause delays or confusion if the original package has already been delivered, but we haven’t received a receipt yet (despite including the online notification form)? • Will submitting a replacement lead to issues or delays with our case?

We’ve already escalated this as far as possible with USPS, including working with a regional advocate. At this point, we’ve accepted that we should have used a more reliable carrier, but right now, we’re focused on moving forward and resolving the situation.

We’d greatly appreciate any advice or insight from anyone who has dealt with something similar, particularly with handling potential duplicate filings or missing submissions. Thank you so much!

EDIT: I’m sorry—I wasn’t sure if it would be necessary to add the Lockbox location or if it would be helpful, but if so, it’s the Elgin Lockbox.