How to Track International Shipments: A Complete Global Guide

Tracking an international shipment can feel like following a package through a maze. Unlike domestic deliveries that move in a straight line from sender to recipient, international parcels navigate through multiple countries, customs offices, and tracking systems. If you’ve ever wondered why your package status hasn’t updated in days or what “Held at Customs” really means, you’re not alone.

This comprehensive guide will demystify international parcel tracking, helping you understand every step of your package’s global journey. Whether you’re an e-commerce shopper awaiting a purchase from overseas or a business managing cross-border shipments, we’ll make the complex simple.

The Basics: Understanding Your Tracking Number

Every international shipment begins with a tracking number – your package’s unique identifier that follows it across borders. For international air shipments, this is often called an AWB (Air Waybill) number.

Where to Find Your Tracking Number

Your tracking number typically appears in:

• The shipping confirmation email from the sender
• Your receipt if you’re the shipper
• The shipping label on the package
• Your account dashboard on the courier’s website

International tracking numbers usually follow specific formats depending on the carrier. For example, DHL uses 10-digit numbers, while FedEx uses 12-15 digits. Some carriers like EMS use a combination of letters and numbers (e.g., EE123456789US).

Universal Tracking vs. Carrier-Specific Tracking

While each carrier has its own tracking system, many international shipments can be tracked through:

• The origin carrier’s website
• The destination country’s postal service
• Universal tracking platforms that aggregate data from multiple carriers

Pro tip: Always start with the original carrier’s tracking system for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

The Journey of an International Package: Key Stages Explained

Understanding the typical journey of an international shipment helps you interpret tracking statuses correctly. Let’s follow your package step by step:

Stage 1: Origin Country Processing

Common Tracking Statuses:

• “Shipment Information Received” – The carrier has the shipping details but hasn’t picked up the package yet
• “Package Picked Up” – Your shipment is now in the carrier’s possession
• “Processed at Origin Facility” – The package is being sorted and prepared for international transport
• “Departed from Origin Country” – Your package is on its way to the destination country

During this stage, your package undergoes initial security screening and documentation checks. This typically takes 1-2 days for express services or 2-4 days for economy shipping.

Stage 2: In Transit

Common Tracking Statuses:

• “In Transit to Destination Country” – Your package is traveling internationally
• “Arrived at Transit Hub” – The shipment has reached an intermediate sorting facility
• “Departed from Transit Hub” – Continuing its journey after processing
• “Arrived at Destination Country” – Your package has landed in the receiving country

The transit phase can be the longest, especially for economy shipments. Express services typically take 2-5 days, while standard international shipping can take 7-21 days depending on the distance and service level.

Stage 3: The Big One – Customs Clearance

This is where many international shipments seem to pause, causing anxiety for recipients. Let’s demystify customs clearance:

What is Customs Clearance? Customs clearance is a mandatory process where government authorities inspect international shipments to:

• Verify declared contents match actual contents
• Calculate and collect applicable duties and taxes
• Ensure items comply with import regulations
• Check for prohibited or restricted items

Common Customs-Related Tracking Statuses:

• “Arrived at Customs” – Your package is queued for inspection
• “Customs Clearance in Progress” – Authorities are reviewing your shipment
• “Held at Customs” – Additional documentation or payment may be required
• “Released from Customs” – Your package has cleared and will continue to delivery

Important: Customs clearance can take anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on:

• The accuracy of shipping documentation
• Import regulations of the destination country
• Current volume at the customs facility
• Whether duties/taxes need to be paid

Stage 4: Destination Country Delivery

Common Tracking Statuses:

• “Arrived at Destination Facility” – Your package is at the local delivery center
• “Out for Delivery” – The package is on a delivery vehicle
• “Delivery Attempted” – The carrier tried to deliver but was unsuccessful
• “Delivered” – Success! Your package has reached its destination

The final mile typically takes 1-3 days after customs clearance, depending on the delivery location and local carrier efficiency.

Troubleshooting Common International Tracking Issues

“My Package is Stuck in Customs” – What to Do?

If your tracking shows “Held at Customs” for more than 3-5 business days:

1. Check for Communication: Look for emails or letters from customs requesting additional information or payment
2. Contact the Carrier: They can often provide specific reasons for the hold
3. Verify Documentation: Ensure the sender provided accurate customs declarations
4. Be Prepared to Pay: Some shipments require duty/tax payment before release
5. Exercise Patience: Complex shipments or high-volume periods can cause legitimate delays

“Tracking Hasn’t Updated in Days” – Should I Worry?

Tracking gaps are common in international shipping. Reasons include:

• Package is in transit between countries (no scanning points)
• Different carriers handle different legs of the journey
• Time zone differences affecting update frequencies
• Weekend or holiday delays in certain countries

When to Take Action:

• Express shipments: No updates for 3-4 days
• Standard shipments: No updates for 7-10 days
• Economy shipments: No updates for 14+ days

“Multiple Tracking Numbers” – Which One to Use?

International shipments often generate multiple tracking numbers as they pass between carriers. Best practice:

• Start with the original carrier’s tracking number
• Note any “handover” tracking numbers for the destination country
• Use universal tracking sites if confused about which number to use

Tips for Smooth International Shipment Tracking

Before Shipping

• Ensure accurate recipient information including phone numbers
• Declare contents accurately on customs forms
• Include detailed product descriptions and values
• Consider purchasing tracking insurance for valuable items

During Transit

• Check tracking daily but don’t panic over normal delays
• Save all shipping documentation until delivery is confirmed
• Set up email or SMS alerts for tracking updates
• Understand the typical transit times for your service level

After Delivery

• Confirm the recipient received the package in good condition
• Keep tracking records for at least 30 days
• Leave feedback for the shipping service
• Note any issues for future shipment improvements

Understanding Duty and Tax Implications

One aspect that often surprises international shipping newcomers is customs duties and taxes. These charges:

• Are separate from shipping costs
• Vary by country and product type
• Must often be paid before delivery
• Can significantly increase the total cost

Common Duty-Related Tracking Statuses:

• “Awaiting Customs Payment” – Duties/taxes are due
• “Payment Received” – Customs charges have been paid
• “Under Customs Review” – Authorities are determining applicable charges

The Role of Technology in Modern International Tracking

Today’s international courier tracking leverages advanced technology:

• Real-time GPS tracking for high-value shipments
• Blockchain verification for customs documentation
• AI-powered delivery predictions based on historical data
• Multi-language support for global accessibility
• Mobile apps with push notifications for instant updates

Conclusion: Mastering International Shipment Tracking

Tracking an international shipment doesn’t have to be stressful. By understanding the journey your package takes – from origin pickup through customs clearance to final delivery – you can interpret tracking statuses with confidence. Remember that delays are often normal parts of the international shipping process, especially during customs clearance.

The key to successful international shipping is choosing the right courier service that provides transparent, detailed tracking throughout your package’s journey. Look for carriers that offer:

• Real-time tracking updates
• Clear customs status information
• Responsive customer support
• Multiple language options
• Proactive delay notifications

At CourierBook, we understand the complexities of international shipping. Our platform connects you with trusted courier partners who provide best-in-class tracking visibility for all your cross-border shipments. Whether you’re shipping documents to Dubai or receiving packages from Paris, we ensure you stay informed every step of the way.

Ready to experience hassle-free international shipping with superior tracking capabilities? Visit CourierBook today and discover how we’re simplifying global logistics, one shipment at a time. Our advanced tracking tools and partner network ensure your international packages are always just a click away from complete visibility.