What Shipping Updates Mean - Part 2: Carrier-Specific Tracking Explained

Carriers often use their own wording for tracking updates, which can differ from the standard terms used by third-party tracking platforms. These variations can cause confusion, especially when one carrier says "Processed Through Facility" while another says "Departed Hub" for essentially the same step. The updates are not mistakes; they simply reflect the way each carrier’s internal systems describe the parcel’s movement.

This section covers the most common carrier-specific updates you are likely to see with services such as DHL, FedEx, UPS, USPS, Australia Post, Royal Mail, Evri, along with explanations, reasons, and tips to help you interpret them.

This means a shipping label has been created and the carrier has received the shipment details. However, the parcel itself may still be with the seller, or in some cases, the carrier already has the item but hasn’t scanned it into the system yet. Common scenarios for this include:

• Carrier picked up a bulk batch:
When a courier collects hundreds of parcels from a warehouse, they may not scan each one at pickup. The first scan often happens later at the depot.

• Delayed scanning:
Parcels can be in the truck or sorting centre but not scanned until processing starts. This can make it look like the seller still has the item.

• Missed initial scan:
If the driver or depot misses the first scan, the system won’t update until the next checkpoint.

• System lag:
Sometimes the data upload from the depot is delayed, so tracking appears stuck at “info received” even though the parcel is moving.

The parcel has been collected from the seller’s warehouse, fulfilment centre, or third-party logistics provider, or it has been dropped off at a post office, retail counter, or collection point. At this stage, the carrier has officially taken possession of the item and scanned it into their system. This is the first confirmation that the parcel is physically with the carrier, not just labelled.

Common reasons:
• The carrier collected a bulk pickup from a seller’s warehouse or fulfilment centre.
• The sender dropped the parcel at a local post office.
• A courier collected it and scanned it at the depot.
• The parcel was lodged at a retail partner or authorised agent.

Why this status matters:
It confirms the parcel is no longer with the seller and is now moving through the carrier’s network. It also closes the gap between Label Created (only paperwork) and the start of actual transit. This is a normal step and shows your parcel is on its way.

Tip: If you want regular updates, check if your carrier offers SMS, email, or app notifications. Not all do. If not, track manually every day or two to stay informed.

The parcel has been scanned at a distribution hub and sorted for the next stage of transport. Large networks rely on multiple regional centres, so you may see this update several times as your parcel moves closer to its destination.

Common reasons:
• The parcel is being routed toward the next hub or regional centre.
• It has been sorted into the correct batch for air, road, or local delivery.
• It was scanned again while passing through an intermediate hub on the way to the destination.
• High-volume carriers, such as USPS or FedEx, scan at each facility to keep track of movement through their network.

Why this status matters:
It shows your parcel is actively moving and being directed through the correct channels. Multiple appearances of this status are normal and not a sign of delay. This is a routine checkpoint in the journey. If your parcel remains at the same facility for several days, especially during peak seasons, it may simply be waiting for the next available transport.

Tip: Some carriers provide estimated delivery dates once the parcel is processed at a major hub. If your carrier does not, check back after the next scan for a clearer timeline. If the parcel appears stuck at one facility for more than five working days, contact the carrier for an update.

The parcel has left a processing facility and is on its way to the next hub, depot, or regional centre. This step confirms that sorting is complete and the parcel is in transit to the following location in the network.

Common reasons:
• The parcel has finished processing at a local or regional hub.
• It is now en route by truck, van, or plane to the next facility.
• Parcels moving internationally may be heading to an export centre or airport.
• Domestic parcels may be in transfer to a regional hub closer to the delivery address.

Why this status matters:
It shows that your parcel is not sitting idle; it is actively moving forward in the delivery chain. Tracking may pause at this stage, especially if the next leg involves long-haul transport or international transfer. If tracking does not update after several days, it may mean the next facility has not yet scanned the parcel. During peak periods or with international shipments, this is normal.

Tip: Some carriers update estimated delivery dates after departure from a major hub. If your carrier does not, keep checking tracking manually. If there has been no update for more than five business days, contact the carrier for confirmation.

This status means the parcel has been scanned at a major processing hub, often at an international gateway or customs-linked facility. It confirms the parcel has entered a key checkpoint in the network and is being sorted or cleared for the next stage of transport. This update is especially common with USPS and other postal services handling international mail.

Common reasons:
• The parcel cleared an international gateway and is awaiting the next leg of transport.
• It has been checked, sorted, and assigned to the correct route.
• It passed through a customs-linked facility for security or documentation review.
• The parcel is moving through a high-volume hub where multiple scans occur before departure.

Why this status matters:
It shows your parcel has reached an official entry or exit point and is moving forward. However, tracking may not always update quickly after this stage, especially if the next leg involves international air transport. If the parcel remains in this status for several days, it may simply be waiting for the next available transport. Contact the carrier only if there has been no update for a week or more.

Tip: Some carriers provide detailed location notes at this stage (for example, the name of the gateway facility). If your carrier does not, continue checking tracking and allow extra time for international transfers, which can take longer to scan.

The parcel has been scanned and cleared at the origin country’s main international facility. This is the final stage before the parcel leaves the country. It confirms export checks are complete and the item is queued for international transport.

Common reasons:
• The parcel has passed security and customs checks for export.
• It has been sorted into batches for the correct airline or cargo route.
• It is waiting to be loaded onto a flight or container.
• High shipping volumes or limited cargo space may delay the next departure.

Why this status matters:
It shows your parcel is in the hands of the international logistics network and is ready to leave the origin country. Tracking often pauses here until the parcel is scanned again upon arrival in the destination country. Be aware that international freight can involve waiting periods of several days, especially during peak seasons or when flights are limited.

Tip: Some carriers display flight departure or airway bill details once the parcel leaves. If yours does not, simply check tracking every day or two until the next update appears when the parcel arrives in the destination country.

The parcel has left the origin country and is now on its way to the destination. This status usually appears once the item has been loaded onto an international flight, though in some cases it may also cover sea freight or cross-border ground transport.

Common reasons:
• The parcel has been loaded onto an outbound aircraft.
• It is moving between the origin country’s international hub and the destination gateway.
• Tracking systems record this as a broad “departed origin” update rather than listing the exact flight or route.
• Some carriers batch-scan large volumes of parcels, so the departure may show a few hours after the flight has already left.

Why this status matters:
It confirms the parcel is officially en route to the destination country. Tracking often pauses here until it clears customs at the other end, which may take several days depending on distance and carrier updates. Be patient during this stage, as international transit can take longer than domestic moves and may not include detailed updates until the parcel arrives in the destination country.

Tip: Some carriers provide additional details such as the departure airport or estimated arrival time. If yours does not, check back after a few days for the next scan in the destination country.

The parcel has reached the destination country and is now under the responsibility of local customs and delivery services. This status usually appears once the item has been scanned at the international gateway facility.

Common reasons:
• The parcel has landed at the main airport or port in the destination country.
• It has been received at the international mail or cargo centre.
• It is queued for customs clearance before being released to the local carrier.

Why this status matters:
It marks a key milestone showing that your parcel has successfully left the origin country and is close to final delivery. The next step will usually be customs inspection, followed by handover to a local delivery network. No action is required until customs processing begins. If the parcel remains in this status for more than several days, it may be waiting for clearance or delayed due to heavy volumes.

Tip: Some carriers issue a new local tracking number at this stage. If yours does not, continue using the original number, and monitor for customs updates. If the parcel shows no progress after a week, contact the local carrier for more information.

The parcel is being reviewed by customs in the destination country. This is a standard part of international shipping, where officials check documentation, assess duties and taxes, and decide whether the parcel can be released. The time required can vary from a few hours to several days depending on the country, shipment type, and season.

Common reasons:
• Verification of shipping paperwork and invoices
• Security screening or inspection of contents
• Calculation of duties, VAT, or GST
• High parcel volumes leading to longer queues

Why this status matters:
It shows that your parcel has reached the final checkpoint before release into the domestic delivery network. Once cleared, it will either be handed to the local carrier or made available for pickup, depending on the service. Monitor your tracking closely. If duties or taxes are due, you will normally be contacted by the carrier or customs office with instructions for payment. Missing or incomplete paperwork may require action from the seller before clearance can be completed.

Tip: If duties or taxes are due, some carriers allow you to pay online through their tracking portal. Not all carriers provide this option, but where available it can speed up clearance. If online tools are not offered, wait for contact from customs or call the carrier directly if your parcel has been stuck in clearance for more than five working days.

The parcel has successfully passed customs checks and is now approved to enter the domestic delivery network. Duties and taxes, if applicable, have been calculated and either paid or billed to the recipient. The parcel will now move on to the local carrier for final delivery.

Common reasons:
• Customs verified the paperwork and approved the shipment.
• Any duties or taxes owed have been settled.
• The parcel has been released from customs storage and returned to the carrier.

Why this status matters:
It signals that your parcel has cleared the main international hurdle and is back on track for delivery. Once customs clearance is complete, parcels are usually transferred quickly to the local postal service or courier. If you have been asked to pay duties or taxes, make sure payment has been completed to avoid further delays.

Tip: Some carriers issue a new domestic tracking number after customs clearance. If yours does not, continue monitoring the original number. If the parcel remains at this stage for more than a few days, contact the carrier to confirm it has been released to the local delivery network.

The parcel has been stopped by customs and cannot move forward until the issue is resolved. Unlike Customs Clearance in Progress, this status usually signals a problem that requires action from either the sender or the recipient.

Common reasons:
• Duties or taxes remain unpaid
• Missing or incorrect paperwork (such as invoices or declarations)
• Restricted or prohibited items requiring additional approval
• Random inspection that is taking longer than usual

Why this status matters:
It means the parcel is not moving until the specific issue is addressed. If action is not taken within the allowed timeframe, the parcel may be returned to sender. Check your tracking updates and email or SMS messages, as carriers usually provide instructions. If duties or taxes are due, pay them promptly. If paperwork is missing or incorrect, the sender may need to provide updated documents.

Tip: If your carrier offers an online portal for customs payments or document submission, use it to resolve the issue quickly. If this option is not available, contact the carrier or customs office directly with your tracking number to find out the next steps.

The international carrier has passed your parcel to a domestic postal service or delivery partner in the destination country. This is a standard step for cross-border shipments, as most global couriers rely on local networks for the final delivery stage. Sometimes a new tracking number is generated for the local leg.

Common reasons:
• The parcel has cleared customs and been released to the domestic carrier.
• The international courier does not handle last-mile delivery in that region.
• A delivery partner (such as USPS, Royal Mail, or Australia Post) has taken over.

Why this status matters:
It confirms the parcel has moved from international transit into the local delivery network. Tracking may temporarily pause until the local carrier scans the item. If a new tracking number is issued, use it to follow the parcel with the domestic carrier. If not, continue using the original number, as some aggregator sites automatically link the two.

Tip: Some carriers update their systems quickly with the new tracking details. If yours does not, contact the local delivery service directly with your original tracking number to request the updated reference.

The parcel is with the local courier for the final stage of delivery. This means it has been loaded onto a delivery vehicle and is scheduled to arrive at the address that day.

Common reasons:
• The parcel has cleared all prior facilities and is ready for last-mile delivery.
• It has been scanned and assigned to a local driver’s route.
• The carrier’s system automatically updates when the parcel is loaded onto the vehicle.

Why this status matters:
It marks the final hand-off before delivery. Timing may vary depending on the courier’s route, traffic, and the number of parcels to be delivered that day. Ensure someone is available to receive the parcel if a signature is required. If you will not be home, check whether your carrier allows safe-drop or delivery rescheduling.

Tip: Some carriers provide live driver tracking or estimated delivery windows once the parcel is out for delivery. If yours does not, be prepared for delivery any time during business hours. If the parcel is not delivered that day, check tracking again for an updated status or attempted delivery notice.

The courier tried to deliver your parcel but could not complete the delivery. This status usually means the driver reached the address but was unable to hand over the parcel.

Common reasons:
• Nobody was available to receive the parcel
• A signature was required but not provided
• The property had restricted or blocked access (e.g. gated entry, locked building)
• The address was incomplete, incorrect, or unclear
• Weather or safety conditions prevented the driver from completing delivery

Why this status matters:
It means the parcel is close to being delivered but needs further action to succeed. Without intervention, it may be reattempted the next day, redirected to a collection point, or eventually returned to sender.

What to do:
1. Review the tracking update or delivery notice left by the driver.
2. Follow carrier instructions to reschedule delivery, authorise safe-drop, or arrange collection.
3. Double-check that the shipping address provided was complete and accurate.

Tip: Many carriers allow you to reschedule or redirect deliveries online. If your carrier does not, call them directly with your tracking number. Acting quickly helps prevent the parcel being returned to the depot or sent back to the sender.

The parcel is ready for collection at a designated location such as a post office, parcel locker, or carrier depot. Instead of being delivered to your door, it has been redirected to a pickup point for security or convenience.

Common reasons:
• Nobody was available at the address to receive the parcel
• The parcel required a signature and was redirected for secure collection
• The address could not be accessed by the driver (e.g. locked building or gated property)
• The customer requested delivery to a parcel locker or pickup point
• Carriers sometimes redirect parcels during peak periods to avoid repeated failed delivery attempts

Why this status matters:
It means your parcel is secure but will only be held for a limited time. Uncollected parcels are eventually returned to sender.

What to do:
Bring photo ID and your tracking number to the collection point. Collect the parcel within the timeframe stated by the carrier (often 7–14 days).

Tip: Some carriers send SMS or email reminders with pickup details and deadlines. If your carrier does not, monitor tracking closely so you do not miss the collection window. If you cannot collect in time, contact the carrier to request an extension or redirection where possible.

The parcel’s progress has been temporarily paused in the carrier’s network. This status does not mean the parcel is lost - it simply indicates that delivery has been delayed for a specific reason.

Common reasons:
• Severe weather events disrupting transport
• Public holidays when carriers are not operating
• Operational backlogs due to high parcel volumes
• Security checks or special handling requirements
• Temporary technical or routing issues in the carrier’s system

Why this status matters:
It shows that the carrier is aware of the parcel but cannot currently move it forward. Once the issue is resolved, the parcel will resume its journey without further action required from you. Monitor your tracking for updates over the next few days. If the parcel remains “On Hold” for more than five working days, contact the carrier for clarification.

Tip: Some carriers post service alerts on their websites or apps during weather events or holiday backlogs. If yours does not, reach out to their customer service team with your tracking number for the most accurate information.

An “Exception” means something has disrupted the normal delivery process. It does not automatically mean the parcel is lost, but it does signal that an irregular event has occurred which may cause a delay.

Common reasons:
• A damaged or unreadable shipping label
• Incorrect or incomplete delivery address
• Severe transport delays (such as weather or strikes)
• Customs issues or extra inspections
• A misrouted parcel sent to the wrong facility

Why this status matters:
It tells you the parcel has encountered an unexpected problem that needs attention. Sometimes the issue is resolved automatically (such as rerouting), but in other cases, action is required by the sender, the carrier, or the recipient.

What to do:
1. Check the full tracking history for details.
2. If the carrier has left instructions (e.g. provide documents, confirm an address, or pay duties), follow them promptly.
3. If the reason is unclear, contact the carrier with your tracking number to clarify what has happened.

Tip: Some carriers provide detailed notes for exceptions online. If yours does not, call their support team directly. Acting quickly often prevents further delays and helps get the parcel moving again.

The parcel was sent to the wrong facility or placed on an incorrect route. This is a type of routing error but is usually temporary, as the carrier will redirect the parcel once the mistake is identified.

Common reasons:
• A scanning error caused the parcel to be sent to the wrong hub
• The parcel was mistakenly sorted into the wrong delivery route
• A barcode or label was misread during automated processing
• System or human error during a high-volume period

Why this status matters:
It means your parcel is not currently on the most direct path to you. While this can cause delays, misrouted parcels are typically corrected and forwarded without requiring customer action.

What to do:
1. In most cases, wait for the parcel to be redirected.
2. If tracking does not update within several days, contact the carrier for confirmation that it is back on the correct route.

Tip: Some carriers automatically update the status once a misrouted parcel is corrected. If yours does not, contact customer service with your tracking number to ensure the parcel is being redirected properly.

Carrier-specific tracking updates often look more complicated than the standard statuses, but they describe the same core steps in the shipping process. Whether your parcel is Processed Through Facility, Transferred to Local Carrier, or Misrouted, these are routine checkpoints that reflect how different carriers word the same events.

In the vast majority of cases, parcels continue moving smoothly even if the terminology feels confusing. Occasional delays, holds, or reroutes are normal in busy networks and usually resolve without any action required from you.

If your tracking shows one of these updates for longer than expected, use the carrier’s online tools to reschedule, pay charges, or request support. If those options are not available, contact the carrier directly with your tracking number for the fastest resolution.

Tip: Bookmark this guide so you can quickly look up what each status means the next time you see a confusing carrier update.