How does tracking work for international shipments?

When a package crosses the border, there is often a change in how you can track the shipment. Below we explain how this works.

Why does tracking stop once the package enters my country?

It sometimes seems as if tracking freezes the moment the package crosses the border or arrives at customs. This is because the international carrier hands over the package to the local postal service or a delivery partner in your country. At that point, the "live" update of the original link often stops because the package enters a new scanning network. Customs clearance also causes a period without new scans; this process takes an average of two weeks.

Is my package handed over to a local courier?

Yes, for many international shipments sent with PostNL, we work with partners who deliver the package in the destination country. Which courier this is varies by country:

• Germany: Often DHL or Deutsche Post.
• United Kingdom: Usually Royal Mail or Parcelforce.
• France: Often La Poste or Colissimo.
• United States: Usually USPS.
• Other countries: In most cases, this is the national postal service of your country.

Can I also track via the website of the local courier?

Yes, and this is often even more accurate! Once the package is in your country, you can usually enter the tracking code directly on the website of your local delivery service.

• National codes: Check the tracking link from our carrier to see if there is an "Alternate Tracking Number" or "Postal Service Number" listed.

No extra code? Then try entering your original tracking code directly on the site of your local postal service. They often recognize this code once the package has been handed over, providing you with more specific information about the delivery time in your region.