Decoding EMS Tracking Statuses

When tracking your EMS package, you'll encounter various status messages that indicate where your package is in the delivery process. Understanding these statuses can help you anticipate delivery times and identify potential issues.

What Are Tracking Statuses?

Tracking statuses are updates provided by postal services that indicate the current location and condition of your package. Each status represents a specific step in the delivery process from sender to recipient.

The EMS Package Journey

Your package goes through several stages from shipment to delivery:

Posted
Processing
In Transit
Customs
Delivery

Common EMS Tracking Statuses and Their Meanings

Posting and Acceptance

These statuses indicate that your item has been sent or accepted into the postal system:

Posting/Collection
The item has been posted or collected from the sender. This is the first step in the tracking process.
Acceptance
The item has been accepted at the post office and is now in the postal system.

Processing and Transit

These statuses indicate that your package is being processed or is in transit:

Processing at Origin
The item is being processed at the origin sorting facility before dispatch.
Dispatched from Outward Office
The item has left the origin sorting center and is on its way to the destination country.
Arrival at Transit Office
The item has arrived at a transit point (often an international airport) before continuing to its destination.

Customs Processing

These statuses indicate that your package is going through customs clearance:

Customs Clearance
The item is undergoing customs inspection. This process can take from a few hours to several days depending on the contents.
Customs Clearance Completed
The item has cleared customs and is ready to be handed over to the destination postal service.
Customs Hold
Customs is holding the item for further inspection. This may require additional documentation or information.

Delivery Process

These statuses indicate that your package is in the final delivery stage:

Out for Delivery
The item is on the delivery vehicle and will be delivered to the recipient today.
Delivery Attempted
A delivery attempt was made but unsuccessful. This usually happens when the recipient is not available.
Delivered
The item has been successfully delivered to the recipient. This is the final status in the tracking process.

Important Notes

Tracking statuses may vary slightly depending on the country of origin and destination. Some status updates might not appear in real-time due to system delays. If your package seems stuck at one status for an extended period, it may be worth contacting the postal service for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why hasn't my tracking status updated in several days?

There can be several reasons for this. The package may be in transit between facilities where scanning isn't possible, it might be held at customs, or there could be a delay in the tracking system updates. International shipments often have periods without status updates.

What does "Customs Hold" mean and what should I do?

A customs hold means that customs officials need more information about your package before they can clear it. You may need to provide additional documentation, such as an invoice or proof of value. Contact your local customs office for specific instructions.

My package status says "Delivered" but I haven't received it. What now?

First, check around your property and with neighbors. If you still can't locate it, contact your local post office with your tracking number. Sometimes packages are scanned as delivered before they actually arrive, or they may have been left in an unexpected location.

How long does customs clearance usually take?

Customs clearance can take anywhere from a few hours to several weeks, depending on the country, the contents of your package, and whether any issues arise. Typically, it takes 2-5 business days for standard packages.