USPS truck loses large crates of priority mail on I-69

SPLENDORA, Texas (KTRK) -- As many people rush to order things online and send gifts to family in time for the holidays, several crates of priority mail were found on the side of I-69.

Police were responding to reports of the crates when they found two women attempting to pick up the mail and put packages into a truck.

A witness says the crates burst through the back doors of a United States Postal Service truck and the truck kept going.

The United States Postal Inspection Service has been alerted.

Police reloaded the mail back into the containers and put the containers in a truck.

If you think you have mail that may be lost or damaged, you can submit a claim online for compensation to the USPS. You can also call 800-ASK-USPS (800-275-8777) to have a claim form mailed to you. You must complete the form and send all other required documentation for loss or damage of an item.

If you're submitting a claim, be prepared to show evidence of insurance. You should also submit proof such as a sales receipt or paid invoice showing the value of the item when it was mailed.

If a package or letter shows up at your door damaged, you must keep the damaged item, packaging, and all contents until the claim is fully resolved. You may be required to bring the item and packaging back to a post office.