In everyday life or work in the U.S., it’s quite common to use Courier to send important documents (such as passports, Chinese visa documents, China travel document, Apostille, immigration papers, or academic records). For example : When applying for a Chinese visa in the United States, most applicants must mail their passport and Chinese visa application documents to a Visit China Visa Center. After the visa is issued, Your passport will be mailed back to you.
Most people use FedEx, UPS, or USPS for secure document shipping. While these carriers are generally trustworthy, delivery problems can and do happen. USPS in particular is known for delays and occasional misdeliveries, which is why we often hear about passport delays or even lost passports.
The challenge isn’t just shipping—it’s getting help quickly if your package is delayed or missing. Courier companies in the U.S. rely on automated phone systems (IVR), which trap callers in endless loops. That’s why we’ve prepared these insider tricks to help you speak to a live agent in under 1 minute.
FedEx – Best Option for Mailing a Important Documents
Customer Service Number: 1-800-463-3339 (1-800-GoFedEx)
When you call Customer Service Number, After short brief, When the system asks: “How can we assist you today?”
👉 Say: “Returning a call.”
This bypasses the menu and connects you directly to an agent in seconds. As of August 2025, this trick works consistently.
UPS – Reliable Alternative for Important Documents Shipping
Customer Service Number: 1-800-742-5877 (1-800-PICK-UPS)
When you call Customer Service Number, After short brief, When asked: “How can I assist you today?”
👉 Say: “Returning a call.”
The system will ask again if you are returning call, Say “Yes.” You’ll usually be connected to a live agent within 1 minute.
USPS – Common for Government Mail, But Riskier
Customer Service Number: 1-800-275-8777
⚠️ Be prepared to wait 40+ minutes for a live agent when use this number.
Secret Lines:
- 800-222-1811
- 844-637-1509
Steps:
- When you call Customer Service Number, After short brief, It will ask for tracking number, Enter your tracking number.
- The system will read the tracking status. Do not hang up.
- Say “Agent” , robot will say the agent will not have new information update, don’t give up, Say “Agent” again, 3 times usually works.
- You’ll be transferred to a live representative.
Tip: For USPS, even you speak to real person, the agent only will file a claim for you, you have to wait. If your mail is stuck somewhere, you can look up local USPS office numbers at postallocations.com. Not every office answers, but it’s worth trying if you want get real time update or to pick up your passport in person.
Extra Tips for Mailing Passports Safely
- Always use tracking: Never send your passport without a tracking number.
- Prepare your tracking number: Agents will ask for it right away.
- Call early morning (8–10 a.m.): Shortest wait times for customer service.
- Stress urgency: If the issue involves passports, visas, or immigration documents, the agent mostly will request “case escalation.”
✅ Conclusion:
When mailing a passport and documents for a Chinese visa application in the U.S., FedEx and UPS are usually the most reliable options, while USPS can be slower. No matter which courier you use, knowing how to reach a live customer service agent quickly is key to resolving issues.
At Visit China Visa Center, we not only assist with the entire Chinese visa application process but also guide you on the safest way to ship your passport and documents. With our support, you can apply with confidence and avoid unnecessary delays.