You've placed an order, received a tracking number, and started checking the status of your shipment—but for days (or longer), the tracking information hasn't changed. Was your package lost? Did something go wrong? Inactivity in tracking information is common and doesn't necessarily mean there's a problem. Learn why this happens and what you can do about it.
Why Tracking May Not Update
Package Is Still in Early Stages: Sometimes, a label is created but the package hasn't been picked up yet. In this pre-shipment phase, the carrier has the tracking number but hasn't scanned the package into the system. Until that first scan, updates won't appear.
Gaps Between Transportation Stages: Depending on the mode of transport, it's normal for tracking to pause between stages:
Road Transport (Truck or Van): Delays in scanning can happen if a local hub is backlogged or if the truck is in transit for multiple days.
Rail Transport (Train): Freight trains follow fixed schedules and may cover long distances without stopover scans, leading to multi-day silences.
Air Transport (Plane): Packages might be loaded onto aircraft and only scanned again upon arrival at the destination country or airport.
Sea Transport (Ship): Maritime shipping involves long ocean voyages with limited or no tracking visibility while the ship is at sea. It's common for updates to resume only after port arrival.
Carrier System Delays: Even if the package is moving, the carrier's tracking system may lag in updating the status, especially during peak shipping seasons or in rural areas with slower data processing.
International Handoffs and Customs: If your package crosses borders, it may be in the hands of a different carrier or stuck at customs. During these handoffs, tracking can temporarily disappear or be delayed until scanned by the next logistics provider.
What You Can Do
Wait at least 48–72 hours for the next update. Minor delays in scanning are common.
Use the tracking number on the official carrier's website; third-party platforms might not be up-to-date.
Contact the seller to confirm the package has been shipped and handed off to the carrier.
Check for multiple tracking numbers (e.g., if the package was transferred to a local delivery partner).
If your item is shipped internationally, search for secondary tracking numbers using universal tracking tools.
When to Take Further Action
No updates after 5–7 days (domestic) or 10–14 days (international).
Status says "delivered" but nothing has arrived.
Status hasn't changed since label was created (for more than 4–5 days).
Package missed the estimated delivery date significantly.
Tracking updates can pause for many reasons—scanning delays, long-distance travel by road, rail, air, or sea, or temporary customs holds. In most cases, your package is still on its way. Monitor the situation, contact the seller or carrier when needed, and be patient with the transportation process, especially for international and bulk shipments.
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