If a sender does not receive a signed receipt within how many days for material sent within the continental United States, are tracer actions initiated?

The correct answer is 30 days. This period is often established as a standard for initiating tracer actions in mailing and delivery processes within the continental United States. When a sender sends out material, particularly important or sensitive items, the expectation is to receive a signed receipt confirming its delivery. If this signed receipt is not received within 30 days, it indicates that the item may have been lost or otherwise undelivered, prompting the need for further investigation through tracer actions.

This 30-day timeline allows enough time for the mail to reach its destination and provides both the sender and the postal service ample opportunity to address any potential issues related to undelivered mail, ensuring items are tracked and the sender can be kept informed.