How International Shipping Tracking Works
International orders typically move through multiple carriers. A package shipping from China to the U.S. might start with a Chinese domestic carrier, transfer to an international logistics company like Yun Express or 4PX, then hand off to USPS or UPS for last-mile delivery. Each handoff can cause a gap in tracking updates.
Common Tracking Status Meanings
| Status | Likely meaning |
|---|---|
| Shipment created / Label printed | Order packaged but not yet picked up by carrier |
| Departed origin country | Package is on international transit leg |
| Arrived at destination country | Package has entered your country - customs next |
| Held in customs | Standard inspection - usually clears in 2-5 business days |
| In transit to delivery location | Moving through local carrier network |
| Out for delivery | On a delivery vehicle today |
| Delivered | Carrier recorded delivery |
Why Tracking Stops Updating
The most common reasons: package is in transit between countries (scans only happen at facilities, not during transit), package is in customs review, or carrier handoff has occurred and the new carrier not yet uploaded scans. A gap of 3-7 days is normal for international shipments. A gap of more than 14 days warrants a support inquiry.
When to Contact Support
Wait until the latest estimated delivery date has passed before contacting support. If you contact support mid-transit without a legitimate issue, they typically cannot do much and you will just be waiting for the same outcome. Exception: if tracking shows the package is in a customs hold for more than 2 weeks, contact support earlier.
For Shein, Temu, and AliExpress, support can initiate a carrier trace once the delivery window closes. This process typically takes an additional 3-7 business days.
FAQ
Contact the retailer's support team and report the situation. In some cases, packages are held for duty assessment or additional documentation. The retailer may be able to check with their shipping partner for more information.