How Shipping Links Work
When a shipping link is generated, it connects to the courier’s tracking system.
This allows you to follow the parcel's journey.
However, the tracking information only updates when the courier updates new data for each stage of the shipping process.
Shipping Methods and Timing
Different shipping methods can affect how quickly tracking updates appear:
Delivered duties shipping: Tracking may not update until the package clears customs in the destination country.
Express shipping: Updates may appear more frequently, but delays can still occur at customs or during handoff between courier networks.
Local delivery updates: Some couriers only push updates once the package reaches the local delivery hub.
Customs Clearance
For international shipments, tracking links often do not show updates until the parcel clears customs. Customs processing times vary by country and can take anywhere from a few hours to several days. Even if the courier has scanned your package, the link may not reflect these scans until clearance is complete.
Why Links May Appear “Stuck”
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Package is in transit but not yet scanned by the courier at a new checkpoint.
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Delayed customs processing in the destination country.
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Courier system sync delays, especially if the package moves between multiple carriers.
Tips to Check Updates
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Verify the shipping method and expected transit time.
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Wait for customs clearance before expecting updates for international shipments.
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Contact your courier if the link has not updated for more than the estimated transit time ( around 14 working days from date of shipment).
Conclusion
It is normal for shipping links to show delayed updates, especially for international shipments.
The link will reflect accurate information once the package progresses through the courier’s system and clears any customs checks.