4PX tracking

What is 4PX?

4PX Express, officially Shenzhen 4PX Express Co., Ltd., is a Chinese logistics company founded in 2004 that specializes in transportation and supply chain services for cross-border e-commerce. Based in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, the company has rapidly established itself as one of China's leading logistics providers, playing an essential role for online sellers looking to ship goods internationally. The name "4PX" refers to the concept of integrated logistics, with the company positioning itself as a complete logistics partner capable of managing all shipping operations on behalf of e-commerce merchants.

The history of 4PX began in 2004 when the company initially launched as a global express courier resource integrator for various Chinese businesses. By 2006, the company had clearly stated its ambition to become a professional logistics service provider dedicated to cross-border e-commerce, thereby anticipating the considerable growth of online sales on a global scale. This strategic vision proved particularly relevant with the explosion of international e-commerce in the following years.

The late 2000s marked a decisive turning point for 4PX. In 2010, the company concluded a major global logistics partnership with Singapore Post and simultaneously became one of eBay's main logistics partners for international shipments from China. The following year, in 2011, 4PX strengthened its technological capabilities by implementing a robust IT platform, enabling it to offer integrated services covering the entire online commerce supply chain. That same year, the company raised its first funds from investors, completing an initial funding round that laid the foundation for its future expansion.

• Date of establishment: 2004, in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province in southern China
• Headquarters: Shenzhen, China, with an operational presence in more than 50 locations worldwide
• Workforce: More than 5,000 employees of different nationalities across more than 100 agencies or subsidiaries worldwide
• Historical investors: Singapore Post Limited, Shenzhen Capital Group, Alibaba Group via Cainiao Network
• Business volume: More than 500,000 orders processed on average per day, with peaks exceeding 1 million daily orders
• Warehousing capacity: More than 1,000,000 square meters of warehouse space distributed across more than 40 warehouses worldwide

In the mid-2010s, 4PX consolidated its position as a leader in the cross-border e-commerce transportation segment. In 2015, it was chosen as the official partner for the "AliExpress Standard Shipping" service, demonstrating the Alibaba Group's confidence in its logistics network. 2016 saw 4PX enter Alibaba's global strategy: the group integrated 4PX as one of its main logistics partners through an alliance with Cainiao, Alibaba's logistics arm. That same year, 4PX secured a $26.8 million investment in a Series B round, with participation from Singapore Post and Cainiao Network.

In 2018, Alibaba invested directly in 4PX, making it the only cross-border e-commerce logistics company in China to receive an investment from the Alibaba Group at that time. This privileged relationship enabled 4PX to become a key player in Alibaba's logistics ecosystem, particularly for AliExpress shipments to Europe and North America. In 2020, the company inaugurated a Class I logistics platform in Chengdu, accompanied by the opening of a dedicated cargo airline route between Chengdu and London. This infrastructure was particularly utilized during the COVID-19 pandemic to urgently ship medical supplies to various countries.

4PX's market positioning is based on its ability to offer an "end-to-end" logistics solution for online sellers. Unlike traditional express carriers that focus on rapid delivery of urgent packages, 4PX acts as both a transportation provider and a logistics integrator. This approach enables it to coordinate all operations: collecting goods from suppliers in China, consolidating shipments, export customs clearance, international transportation primarily by air, then import and local distribution in the destination country via local partners.

Which countries does 4PX deliver to?

4PX provides particularly extensive geographic coverage, capable of serving more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. This exceptional international reach makes 4PX one of the most accessible carriers for shipments from China, enabling Chinese e-commerce merchants to reach customers on virtually every continent. 4PX's global network relies on a combination of its own infrastructure and strategic partnerships with local carriers in each destination country.

In mainland China, 4PX operates three major warehouses located in Shenzhen, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, which serve as consolidation and shipping platforms for all international shipments. These strategically positioned facilities allow for collecting goods from sellers in China's main manufacturing zones and quickly routing them to international airports for shipment abroad.

For European destinations, 4PX offers direct delivery lines to the continent's main markets. France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, and the Czech Republic benefit from optimized routes enabling competitive delivery times. The company operates a warehouse in Germany and the United Kingdom, serving as regional hubs for European distribution. These facilities enable customs clearance of goods upon entry into the European Union and subsequent redistribution to different member countries.

• North America: United States and Canada, with a dedicated warehouse in the United States for local distribution via USPS and other partner carriers
• Europe: France, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Switzerland, and other European countries
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Philippines, India, Australia, and New Zealand
• Middle East: Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and other Gulf countries
• South America: Brazil, Argentina, and other countries on the continent
• Africa: South Africa and other African destinations

4PX's geographic coverage relies on a network of trusted local logistics partners in each destination country. In major destinations, 4PX collaborates with the national postal service or recognized local couriers to perform last-mile delivery. This "glocal" model (global + local) ensures deep penetration of foreign territories without having to fully replicate its structures in each country. For example, a package shipped via 4PX to the United States will first be transported through 4PX's international network to the American exchange center, then handed over to USPS for final delivery to the recipient.

4PX operates a global parcel network with direct delivery lines to many strategic countries. This network processes an average of more than 500,000 orders per day, with processing capacities reaching 1 million daily orders during peak periods such as Singles Day (11.11) or Black Friday. For the most remote or less frequently served destinations, 4PX may use international freight forwarders or universal postal networks to ensure package delivery.

What are 4PX's services and delivery times?

4PX offers an extensive range of logistics services to meet the different needs of online merchants and their customers. The company has developed several shipping service lines, ranging from premium express solutions to economy options, allowing sellers to choose the best balance between speed and cost based on the nature of their products and their customers' expectations.

The international express delivery service is 4PX's premium offering, designed for urgent packages requiring rapid transport. This service relies either on dedicated cargo flights chartered by 4PX or on partnerships with major international express carriers such as DHL, FedEx, and UPS. Express delivery times generally range from 3 to 7 business days for major destinations, providing a suitable solution for high-value products or orders requiring urgent delivery.

For less urgent shipments, 4PX offers standard and economy delivery options that prioritize cost-effectiveness. These services often use international postal networks: packages are transported to the destination country and then handed over to the local postal service for final distribution. This approach, while slower than express, allows reaching any address at lower cost, which is particularly suitable for low-value products where shipping costs represent a significant portion of the total price.

• International Express Service: 3 to 7 business day delivery times, full tracking and insurance included, ideal for urgent shipments and valuable products
• Standard Service: 12 to 25 day delivery times for the United States, Germany, Italy, and most European countries, good quality/price compromise
• Economy Service: 18 to 35 days or more depending on destinations, most competitive rates for non-urgent products
• 4PX Global Direct Line: Specific optimized shipping routes to certain countries, combining reasonable delivery times and attractive rates

4PX delivery times vary considerably depending on the final destination and the type of service chosen. For European countries such as France, Germany, Italy, or the Netherlands, standard delivery times generally range from 12 to 25 days. Some Asian destinations such as Singapore, the United Kingdom, Taiwan, or Thailand benefit from shorter delivery times, between 4 and 14 days, due to their geographical proximity to China or the existence of optimized direct lines.

For more distant or less frequently served destinations, delivery times can extend significantly. Japan, Saudi Arabia, Australia, South Korea, and Argentina show average delivery times of 18 to 35 days. Russia, Brazil, Serbia, El Salvador, and countries on the African continent may require more than 30 days for complete delivery. These longer delivery times are explained by the complexity of logistics chains, stricter customs formalities, or the absence of direct connections from China.

It is important to note that these delivery times are indicative and can be affected by many external factors. Adverse weather conditions, natural disasters, holiday periods and public holidays, customs delays, or exceptional health situations can extend transit times. During peak commercial activity periods such as Chinese New Year, Singles Day, or year-end holidays, shipping volumes increase considerably, which can lead to additional delays in package processing.

What are 4PX's rates and maximum accepted dimensions?

4PX has developed a competitive pricing strategy by leveraging the considerable volumes it processes daily. Through its partnerships with major international carriers and its ability to negotiate preferential rates, the company can offer attractive prices for international shipments from China. This approach allows online sellers, particularly those present on major marketplaces like AliExpress or eBay, to offer affordable or even free shipping to their international customers.

4PX rates vary according to several determining factors. Package weight is the main pricing criterion, with each additional gram increasing the shipping cost. The final destination also significantly influences the price, with European and North American countries generally showing different rates than Asian or African destinations. The type of service chosen (express, standard, or economy) represents another major factor, with fast services naturally being more expensive than economy options.

For warehousing services offered by 4PX, particularly in its Shenzhen warehouse (E-order service), rates are structured flexibly. Storing items up to 20 kg costs approximately $14.4, while order processing is charged at approximately $0.48 per kilogram. Rerouting returns costs approximately $0.24 per piece. These rates allow sellers to benefit from a complete fulfillment solution without investing in their own logistics infrastructure.

• Maximum weight: 4PX's standard international shipping service accepts packages weighing up to 20 kg, with heavier shipments requiring specific freight solutions
• Pricing factors: Actual or volumetric weight (whichever is higher), destination, type of service, nature of goods
• Negotiated rates: 4PX benefits from preferential rates with DHL, UPS, FedEx, and other carriers thanks to its high shipping volumes
• Fulfillment options: Storage, order preparation, and shipping from 4PX warehouses at competitive rates

Regarding merchandise restrictions, 4PX applies strict rules in accordance with international air transport regulations. Chemicals, toxic substances, alcohol, liquids, weapons, cigarettes, cash, and dangerous goods are strictly prohibited. All products prohibited by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) are also excluded from 4PX shipments. Liquids, powders, and other potentially dangerous substances by air cannot be accepted.

The Chinese government expressly prohibits the export of certain goods, including antiques, currency, and counterfeit products, which therefore cannot be shipped via 4PX. Branded products require specific authorization as well as a business license to be legally exported. Perishable items and certain electronic devices containing lithium batteries may also be subject to particular restrictions depending on their nature and destination.

For each package shipped internationally, the sender must accurately complete a CN22 customs declaration. The product description must be specific and detailed, as generic terms such as "gift," "sample," or "electronics" are not accepted. A precise description of the contents facilitates customs clearance and reduces the risk of delays or package holds during customs inspections.

What are 4PX's delivery options?

4PX offers several delivery methods to accommodate different configurations and preferences of end recipients. The company has developed a flexible distribution network that combines its own logistics capabilities with those of local partners in each destination country, thus enabling various package delivery options depending on the markets.

Home delivery is the standard option offered by 4PX for most destinations. Once the package has arrived in the destination country and cleared customs, it is handed over to the local logistics partner who handles final distribution to the recipient's address. Depending on the country, this partner may be the national postal service (such as USPS in the United States, Royal Mail in the United Kingdom, or Deutsche Post in Germany) or a partner private carrier. The recipient generally receives a notification informing them of the upcoming arrival of their package.

4PX's Global Fulfillment service offers an optimized warehousing and delivery solution for sellers looking to shorten delivery times to their target markets. By storing their products in 4PX warehouses located in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, or Australia, sellers can offer last-mile delivery in just 1 business day in certain areas. This option is particularly suitable for sellers with regular sales volume to these destinations.

• Home delivery: Standard option with package delivery to the address specified by the recipient, handled by the local partner carrier
• Global Fulfillment: Storage in 4PX warehouses abroad enabling accelerated delivery from local stock
• Global Package Services: Direct delivery in approximately 3 days for main lines to key markets
• Global Direct Line: Optimized routes to certain countries with local partners for last-mile delivery

4PX's First Mile network handles the collection, allocation, and distribution of packages from Chinese sellers, improving the global reach of products. This service facilitates the pickup of goods directly from suppliers or in production areas, simplifying logistics operations for e-commerce merchants who do not have to manage the initial routing of their products to shipping centers themselves.

Package tracking is available throughout the delivery process. As soon as a package is picked up by 4PX, a unique tracking number is assigned to it. This number allows tracking the shipment's progress through the different stages: collection, consolidation, departure from China, international transit, arrival in the destination country, customs clearance, and final delivery. Notifications are generally sent to recipients to inform them of their delivery progress and estimated delivery date.

Regarding rescheduling or redirection options, the possibilities largely depend on the local carrier handling final delivery in the destination country. Once the package is handed over to the local partner (postal service or private carrier), the available options are those offered by that carrier. The recipient can generally contact the local carrier directly with the tracking number to request a change in delivery arrangements if permitted.

What should I do if my 4PX package is lost or damaged?

When faced with a lost, delayed, or damaged 4PX package, several steps can be taken to resolve the issue and obtain possible compensation. The claims procedure varies depending on whether the purchase was made through an e-commerce platform (such as AliExpress, Wish, or eBay) or directly from an independent seller using 4PX services.

For orders placed on AliExpress or other marketplaces shipped via 4PX, the recommended first step is to contact the seller or shipper on the purchasing platform. Sellers often have more direct communication channels with shipping companies and can inquire about shipment status on their behalf. They can also initiate inquiries with 4PX to locate the package or obtain information about the causes of the delay.

If the seller is unable to resolve the issue and the shipment has not arrived within the expected timeframe, opening a dispute on the purchasing platform is the next step. On AliExpress, for example, buyers can open a dispute for non-receipt of order, which triggers a mediation process between the buyer and seller. If the dispute is resolved in the buyer's favor, a full or partial refund may be obtained.

• Contact the seller: Recommended first step for marketplace purchases, the seller can investigate directly with 4PX
• Open a dispute: If the seller does not resolve the issue, use the dispute system of the purchasing platform (AliExpress, eBay, etc.)
• Contact 4PX directly: For professional shipments or when needed, contact 4PX customer service by email at [email protected]
• Phone: Shenzhen warehouse at +86-755-23508000, Melbourne warehouse at +61 (3) 9416 8777
• Official tracking website: https://track.4px.com to check the detailed status of the package

It is important to note that a package whose tracking has been stuck for several days is not necessarily lost. Carriers generally conduct an internal search for 10 to 21 days according to their procedures before declaring a package as lost. After this period without news, the package may be officially declared lost and compensation procedures can then be initiated.

In most countries, consumer protection laws place the responsibility for proper delivery on the professional seller. The main point of contact therefore remains the seller, who is responsible for the order until it is received by the buyer. If the seller refuses to cooperate, mediation through consumer protection organizations or recourse to "chargeback" through the banking institution are effective remedies.

For direct claims to 4PX, it is essential to provide the complete tracking number, shipping date, a description of the problem encountered, and any useful evidence (photos in case of damage, tracking screenshots, etc.). Response times may vary depending on the complexity of the case and the need to conduct investigations with different links in the logistics chain. Written evidence and traceable exchanges are particularly important for building a solid claims file.

Does 4PX handle international shipments and customs formalities?

4PX is specifically designed to handle international shipments, this activity having been the company's core business since its founding in 2004. As a specialist in cross-border e-commerce, 4PX has developed in-depth expertise in managing international shipments and associated customs formalities, enabling Chinese sellers to ship their products to more than 200 countries worldwide.

The international routing of a 4PX package follows a structured multi-step process. The package is first collected from the seller or picked up at a drop-off point, then transported to one of 4PX's consolidation centers in China (Shenzhen, Hong Kong, or Shanghai). At this stage, export customs formalities are completed: declaration of departure from Chinese territory, verification of goods compliance, and preparation of necessary shipping documents.

International transport is primarily by air, with 4PX chartering its own cargo flights or using the capacity of partner airlines. For less urgent or larger shipments, sea freight may also be used. Once arrived in the destination country, the package enters the import phase where local customs formalities must be completed before final distribution to the recipient.

• CN22 customs declaration: Mandatory document for any international shipment, which must detail precisely the contents and value of the goods
• Export customs clearance: Managed by 4PX from China, including compliance checks and territory departure declarations
• Import customs clearance: Carried out in the destination country, which may generate customs duties and taxes depending on the value and nature of the goods
• Required documents: Commercial invoice, packing list, specific customs declarations depending on the countries

Customs duties and import taxes are generally the responsibility of the final recipient. In the European Union, since July 1, 2021, VAT applies to any imported goods regardless of value, ending the former €22 exemption. Customs duties benefit from a €150 exemption for distance purchases: below this threshold, only VAT is due; above it, customs duties are added according to the product classification. VAT rates vary among EU member states.

The amount of customs duties depends on several factors: the customs value of the package (including purchase price, shipping costs, and insurance), the tariff classification of the product (HS code/customs nomenclature), and the country of origin of the goods. Customs authorities use this information to determine the applicable duty rate and calculate the amount owed by the importer.

Customs delays may occur in certain situations: random inspection of goods, incomplete or imprecise documentation, suspicion of value under-declaration, or goods requiring special verification. In these cases, the tracking status will generally indicate that the package is held by customs or that customs clearance is in progress. The recipient may be contacted to provide additional documents or pay duties and taxes before the package is released.

Understanding tracking statuses

When tracking a 4PX package online, different statuses may appear to indicate the progress of your shipment through the various logistics stages. These statuses, generally displayed in English, help understand exactly where the package is located and what the next step in its routing will be. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: