Why International Tracking Is More Complex
Tracking a domestic package is relatively straightforward — one carrier handles the whole journey. International shipments are different. Your parcel typically passes through multiple carriers, customs agencies, and sorting hubs across two or more countries. Understanding this multi-leg process makes it much easier to interpret tracking updates and know when to be concerned.
How an International Shipment Travels
A typical international parcel goes through the following stages:
- Origin carrier pickup: The parcel is collected by the carrier in the sending country.
- Export customs clearance: The parcel is inspected and cleared for export. This is usually fast and automatic.
- International transit: The parcel travels by air or sea freight to the destination country. No tracking updates may appear during this leg.
- Import customs clearance: This is where delays most commonly occur. The parcel is inspected, duties may be assessed, and documentation is verified.
- Handover to local carrier: Once cleared, the parcel is handed to the destination country's postal service or courier for last-mile delivery.
- Local delivery: The parcel is delivered to the recipient's address.
Understanding the "Tracking Gap"
One of the most common concerns with international tracking is what's known as the tracking gap — a period of several days or even weeks where the tracking status doesn't update. This typically occurs while the parcel is in international transit (on a plane or ship). It does not mean your parcel is lost.
When the parcel arrives in the destination country and is scanned by customs or the local postal service, tracking will resume.
Who Handles Your Parcel in the Destination Country?
This depends on the carrier used at origin. Here are some common handoffs:
| Origin Carrier | Delivered By (USA) | Delivered By (UK) |
|---|---|---|
| China Post / AliExpress | USPS | Royal Mail |
| DHL Express | DHL (own network) | DHL (own network) |
| FedEx International | FedEx (own network) | FedEx (own network) |
| ePacket (China) | USPS | Royal Mail |
| Japan Post | USPS | Royal Mail |
This means you may need to track the parcel on the origin carrier's website first, then switch to the destination carrier's tracker once it arrives in your country.
What Is ePacket?
ePacket is a shipping agreement between China (and several other Asian countries) and destination postal services like USPS and Royal Mail. It offers a much more affordable international shipping option compared to express couriers, with tracking included. ePacket shipments typically take 10–20 business days and are handed off to the local postal service for final delivery.
Customs: What Can Cause Delays
Customs holds are the most common cause of international shipping delays. Your parcel may be delayed if:
- The declared value triggers import duties in the destination country
- Documentation is incomplete (missing commercial invoice, incorrect HS code)
- The item is restricted or prohibited in the destination country
- Random physical inspection is triggered
If you're the importer, you may receive a notice asking you to pay duties or provide additional information before the parcel is released.
Tips for Smoother International Tracking
- Use a universal tracking tool that covers both the origin and destination carriers.
- Allow at least 20–30 business days before raising a concern for standard international mail.
- For high-value items, always use an express service with end-to-end tracking (DHL Express, FedEx International Priority, UPS Worldwide).
- Keep your tracking number and order receipt until the parcel is confirmed delivered.