The worst tracking system in USPS is the scenario where it is shipped parcel post insured. Only the insurance label is trackable. This is the one that is usually poorly tracked and lacking information.
I find that Priority mail and express mail tracking is pretty good.
Regarding post offices not accepting long guns, unfourtunately you get those that like to act on their own with no regard to what the laws are. Besides, they wouldnt know if you dont tell them. And I find that the only way they MAY ask what the contents are is if it is being insured. But that is not even a requirement of theirs.
When this happens, I always recomend that people ship on-line using their click 'n ship program. There is no one to tell you you cant ship something. you just process it and they pick it up or you drop it off. And, you get a discount on the shipping rate. A BIG one on express mail.
My local post office has told me directly, "Yes, you can ship long guns, but not hand guns".
