Austria Post tracking

What is Austrian Post?

Austrian Post, officially called Österreichische Post AG, is the national postal services operator in Austria. Created in 1999 following the split of Austrian postal and telecommunications services, this company ensures the delivery of mail and parcels throughout Austria and internationally. A joint-stock company listed on the Vienna Stock Exchange in the ATX index and majority-owned by the Austrian state through the public holding ÖBAG, Austrian Post combines the heritage of a centuries-old postal service with a modern organization focused on efficiency, logistics and customer service.

The origins of the Austrian Post go back to the Habsburg Empire, with regular postal services connecting Austrian territories to major European cities from the late 15th century onwards. For example, an official postal service connected Innsbruck to Flanders from 1490. In 1722, Emperor Charles VI made the postal service a state monopoly, establishing the foundations of a centralized postal administration within the empire. This long history shaped a corporate culture based on reliability and public service, values that persist today in the carrier's daily operations.

Austrian Post's current legal form resulted from the liberalization of the Austrian postal sector in the 1990s. In 1996, the former postal and telecommunications monopoly was dissolved to create Post und Telekom Austria. Three years later, in 1999, Österreichische Post AG was established as a separate entity, inheriting postal services. Since its public listing in 2006, Austrian Post has been among the companies in the ATX index and continues to evolve between commercial expansion and its public service mission.

• Date of establishment: 1999, resulting from the split of Post und Telekom Austria, heir to a postal tradition dating back to the 15th century
• Parent company: Majority-owned by the Republic of Austria through the public holding ÖBAG at approximately 52.8%
• Headquarters: Vienna, Austria
• Annual volume: More than 500 million parcels handled each year in Austria, South-East and Eastern Europe as well as in Turkey and Azerbaijan
• Revenue: More than 3 billion euros in annual revenue
• Workforce: Approximately 20,500 employees dedicated to postal and logistics activities

Austrian Post is today among the leading postal and logistics service providers in Europe, covering both traditional mail distribution and parcel delivery as well as digital services. The company is organized into three major operational divisions: the Mail and Advertising division, the Parcel and Logistics division, and the Network and Banking division. This structure allows it to meet the diverse needs of individuals, businesses and public institutions, while adapting its offerings to changes in the postal market.

The Parcel and Logistics division is now the main growth driver of the group, with revenue exceeding 1.7 billion euros and significant growth in recent years. This performance illustrates Austrian Post's ability to adapt to the e-commerce boom and meet consumer expectations for fast and flexible delivery. The carrier notably crossed the historic milestone of 500 million parcels delivered annually across all its markets.

Which countries does Austrian Post deliver to?

Austrian Post provides particularly extensive geographic coverage, both throughout the national territory and on an international scale. In Austria, the carrier serves all municipalities, from the major cities of Vienna, Graz and Salzburg to the most remote rural areas of the Austrian Alps, six days a week. This national presence is based on a dense network of post offices, partner agencies and automated parcel lockers that guarantee access to postal services across the entire territory.

Austrian Post's national network includes approximately 1,700 service points distributed throughout the country. This network includes about 350 post offices managed directly by the company and approximately 1,300 partner agencies located at local retailers or in rural municipalities. This organization allows for a local service even in less densely populated regions, where establishing a traditional post office would not be economically viable.

• Austria: Full coverage of the national territory, including all regions and Länder of the country
• Central and South-East Europe: Direct presence through subsidiaries in Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Bulgaria
• Turkey and the Caucasus: Majority presence in Aras Kargo, one of Turkey's leading carriers, with expansion to Azerbaijan
• European Union: Delivery to all member countries thanks to partnerships with national postal operators
• International: More than 200 countries and territories served worldwide via the Universal Postal Union network

Internationally, Austrian Post relies on Universal Postal Union agreements and bilateral partnerships with national postal operators in each destination country. For example, a parcel sent from Austria to Germany will be taken over by Deutsche Post for final distribution, while a shipment to the United States will transit through USPS. This international cooperation ensures service continuity and consistent delivery quality regardless of the destination country.

Austrian Post's international expansion has been built progressively through strategic acquisitions. In Central and South-East Europe, the group owns several subsidiaries specializing in parcel services: Express One in Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, City Express in Serbia since 2007, Overseas Express in Croatia since 2017, and M&BM Express in Bulgaria. In 2022, the Express One SI subsidiary was launched in Slovenia with two logistics centers in Maribor and Ljubljana.

Austrian Post's presence in Turkey is a major development driver. In 2013, the group acquired a 25% stake in Aras Kargo, one of the country's leading parcel operators. In 2020, this stake was increased to 80%, making Austrian Post the majority shareholder. Through Aras Kargo, the Austrian carrier has also expanded to Azerbaijan. In 2023, the Turkish subsidiary acquired 75% of Star Express, operating under the Starex brand, specializing in the delivery of parcels from international e-commerce, opening the doors to Central Asian and Caucasus markets.

What are Austrian Post's delivery services and times?

Austrian Post offers a complete range of delivery services tailored to the different needs of shippers and recipients. Whether it's for an urgent domestic shipment or an international shipment with no time constraints, the Austrian carrier offers modular solutions in terms of speed, price and additional services. Delivery times vary depending on the type of service chosen and the destination, allowing each customer to find the option that matches their expectations.

At the national level, Austrian Post stands out for particularly efficient delivery times. More than 96% of priority shipments are delivered the next business day after posting. For standard parcels, more than 97% arrive at their destination within two business days. These performances place the Austrian Post among Europe's most reliable and fastest postal operators in terms of distribution reliability and speed.

• Domestic standard parcel: Delivery to home or pick-up point within 2 business days on average, with online tracking and proof of delivery included
• Post Express Austria: Guaranteed delivery the next business day before 1:00 PM throughout Austria, with fee refund in case of delay
• Saturday delivery: For Post Express shipments deposited on Friday, delivery possible on Saturday before 1:00 PM in regional capitals and certain areas
• Economy shipping: Reduced-rate option for less urgent parcels, with extended delivery time of a few additional days
• International Express: Delivery to major cities and business centers in the EU within 1-2 business days, with possibility of noon delivery
• Standard international parcel: Delivery time of 4-5 business days to major European destinations
• Economy international shipping: Routing via land or sea with delivery times that can take several weeks depending on distance

Post Express is Austrian Post's flagship service for urgent shipments. In Austria, Post Express parcels deposited before the cutoff time are guaranteed to be delivered the next day before 1:00 PM. This guarantee comes with a refund commitment: if a Post Express shipment arrives late at the recipient's address, the shipper can request reimbursement of transport costs and additional services within three weeks of shipment.

For international express shipments, Austrian Post offers competitive times throughout Europe. Delivery to major cities and business centers in the European Union is generally completed within two business days, even the next day to major destinations. A next-day noon delivery option is available for shipments deposited at major Post Express International offices within required acceptance deadlines. Saturday delivery is also possible for shipments deposited on Friday.

Austrian Post does not offer Sunday delivery for its standard services. Distribution operations take place Monday through Saturday, with Saturday reserved for express shipments deposited on Friday. However, the automated lockers in the network allow recipients to pick up their parcels 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, offering maximum flexibility for those who cannot be present during traditional delivery hours.

What are the rates and maximum dimensions accepted by Austrian Post?

Austrian Post's rates for sending parcels within Austria and internationally depend on several factors: the format of the shipment, its weight, its dimensions, the destination and the desired delivery time. The carrier offers a modular rate schedule allowing each shipper to find the option that matches their budget and speed requirements. Rates are regularly updated and can be viewed directly on the official website post.at.

For domestic shipments within Austria, basic rates vary depending on the weight and format of the parcel. Small lightweight parcels benefit from competitive rates, while larger or heavier shipments are charged according to a progressive scale. Parcels over 10 kg are subject to the 20% Austrian VAT, with the displayed rate including this tax. Each shipment receives deposit confirmation, online tracking, signed delivery and carrier responsibility up to 510 euros in case of loss or damage.

• Maximum length: 100 cm for standard rectangular-shaped parcels
• Combined dimensions: The sum of length, width and height must not exceed the limits set according to the service
• Maximum domestic weight: Up to 31.5 kg for standard parcels in Austria
• Maximum international weight: Varies depending on destination, generally between 20 and 30 kg
• Surcharge for oversized parcels: Additional fees may apply to parcels exceeding certain dimensions

As a guide, shipping costs for domestic deliveries within Austria start around 4 euros for small lightweight parcels. For international shipments to neighboring European countries, rates start around 15 to 20 euros depending on weight and destination. Heavier parcels, 20 kg or more, can see their shipping costs exceed 50 euros, particularly for distant international destinations or express services.

Austrian Post also offers optional insurance for valuable shipments. The carrier's basic liability is limited to 510 euros in case of loss or damage. For parcels containing goods worth more than this, it is recommended to purchase additional insurance covering the actual value of the contents. This option allows you to be compensated for the declared value in case of loss, providing extra peace of mind for important shipments.

Post Express service, intended for urgent shipments, applies higher rates compared to standard services. This price difference is justified by the guarantee of next-day delivery before 1:00 PM and the refund commitment in case of delay. For international express shipments, rates vary significantly depending on the destination zone and parcel weight, with noon delivery options available for an additional fee.

What are Austrian Post's delivery options?

Austrian Post provides its customers with a wide range of delivery options designed to adapt to the different lifestyles and constraints of recipients. Whether you are at home to receive your parcels or prefer to pick up your shipments at a location of your choice, the Austrian carrier offers flexible solutions to guarantee an optimal delivery experience.

Home delivery remains the most common option for Austrian Post parcels. The mail carrier or delivery person arrives at the address provided by the shipper and hands over the parcel to the recipient or an authorized person. For shipments requiring a signature, the delivery person captures it on a mobile terminal, creating a proof of delivery that can be viewed in the tracking system. If the recipient is absent, a notice is left in the mailbox, informing about parcel collection methods.

• Home delivery: Direct delivery to the recipient's address with electronic signature option
• Pick-up points: Approximately 1,700 service points throughout Austria, including post offices and partner agencies
• Automated lockers: Secure compartments accessible 24/7 to pick up your parcels anytime
• Neighbor drop-off: Option to authorize the delivery person to hand over the parcel to a neighbor if absent
• Delivery rescheduling: Via the app or website, change the delivery date or location
• Drop-off instructions: Specify a secure location for parcel drop-off without recipient presence

Austrian Post's network of pick-up points is a popular alternative to home delivery. The approximately 1,700 service points spread throughout Austria include traditional post offices with extended hours and partner agencies located at local retailers. The latter often offer more flexible time slots, allowing you to pick up your parcels in the evening or on weekends depending on the opening hours of the host business.

Automated lockers represent a particularly convenient solution for recipients with busy schedules. These secure compartments, installed in public places such as train stations, shopping centers or parking lots, operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The recipient receives a pickup code or QR code via SMS or email when their parcel is placed in the locker. They simply need to visit the location and scan the code to open the compartment containing their shipment, without any time constraints.

Austrian Post also offers notification and delivery personalization services via its mobile app and website. Recipients can track their parcel in real time, receive alerts via email or SMS at each stage of the journey, and modify delivery preferences if necessary. It is thus possible to reschedule a delivery to another date, choose an alternative pick-up point or provide specific drop-off instructions, such as authorizing the delivery person to leave the parcel in an agreed location.

For Post Express shipments, additional options are available. The shipper can request an identity check at delivery, ensuring that only the named recipient can receive the shipment after verification of their identity documents. A shipper notification option also allows you to be informed by email or SMS as soon as the parcel has been handed over to the recipient, providing instant confirmation of successful delivery.

What should I do if my Austrian Post parcel is lost or damaged?

Despite the quality and safety measures put in place by Austrian Post, it can happen that a parcel is lost or arrives damaged at its destination. In these situations, the carrier has established clear procedures allowing shippers and recipients to report the problem and obtain compensation if applicable. It is important to act quickly and respect the deadlines set for the claim to be taken into account.

In case of a damaged parcel, Austrian Post allows you to report damage easily and quickly via an online form available on its website. Claims can be submitted as soon as the parcel is received and up to 7 days after delivery, excluding Sundays and public holidays. It is essential to keep the shipment in its condition of receipt, with the complete contents and original packaging, until the case manager responds, for a maximum of 7 business days.

• Claim deadline for damage: Maximum 7 days after delivery to report a damaged parcel
• Claim deadline for loss: Search request possible 5 days after shipment, to be made within 6 months of shipment
• Documents to provide: Tracking number, date of receipt, description of contents and packaging, photos of damage
• Basic liability: Up to 510 euros for lost or damaged parcels without additional insurance
• Additional insurance: Option to cover shipments of value exceeding this amount for an additional premium

To file a damage claim, the recipient must provide several pieces of information and supporting documents. The online form requests shipment data (tracking number, date of receipt), content and packaging details, as well as shipper and recipient contact information. Digital photos of damaged merchandise and packaging are particularly important for case processing and allow Austrian Post teams to assess the extent of damage.

In case of a parcel not received, the shipper can initiate a search request if the shipment does not arrive 5 days after shipment. This procedure, called Nachforschung in German, allows you to initiate an internal investigation to locate the parcel in the logistics chain. The seller or shipper must provide the tracking number on the deposit receipt to start the search. This request must be made within 6 months of the original shipment date.

Regarding compensation, Austrian Post assumes liability up to 510 euros for lost or damaged parcels that have not been covered by additional insurance. If you wish to ship a parcel whose value exceeds this amount, it is highly recommended to purchase additional insurance at the time of shipment. This additional coverage allows you to be compensated for the actual declared value of the contents in case of total loss or irreparable damage.

For international shipments, claim rules differ slightly depending on the direction of shipment. Damage claims for parcels from abroad can only be filed by the recipient in Austria. Conversely, for shipments leaving Austria to abroad, the recipient abroad must report the damage to the local delivery service after receipt. In case of ongoing dispute, the shipper can file a complaint with the Post-Schlichtungsstelle, the Austrian postal mediation service, competent for all disputes with postal service providers.

Does Austrian Post handle international shipments and customs procedures?

Austrian Post offers a complete range of international shipping services allowing you to send parcels to more than 200 countries and territories worldwide. The Austrian carrier, a member of the Universal Postal Union, relies on a global network of postal and logistics partners to ensure the delivery of shipments across borders. Managing customs procedures is an essential aspect of these shipments, particularly for shipments to countries outside the European Union.

For shipments within the European Union, procedures are simplified thanks to the single market and free movement of goods. Parcels circulating between Austria and other EU member countries do not require customs declaration, which significantly accelerates transit times. The recipient generally does not have to pay customs duties or additional taxes upon receipt, any value-added taxes having been applied in the country of origin.

• Intra-EU shipments: No customs procedures, free movement of goods between member countries
• Non-EU shipments: Customs declaration mandatory for all merchandise shipments
• CN22 form: For low-value shipments (under 300 euros) and under 2 kg weight
• CN23 form: For shipments valued over 300 euros or weighing over 2 kg
• Commercial invoice: Required for shipments of goods outside the EU zone for customs purposes
• Electronic declaration: All customs declarations must now be made online

Shipments to countries outside the European Union, notably Switzerland, the United Kingdom, the United States or Asian countries, are subject to mandatory customs procedures. In accordance with current customs regulations, it is imperative to attach a customs declaration to any merchandise shipment to these destinations, regardless of the type of packaging used and the nature of the shipment, even if it is a gift or sample sent free of charge.

The type of customs form to use depends on the value and weight of the shipment. The CN22 form is used for low-value international shipments, where the total amount does not exceed 300 euros and the weight remains under 2 kg. For larger shipments exceeding these thresholds, the more comprehensive CN23 form is required. In all cases, Austrian Post requires a commercial invoice or proforma invoice indicating the actual value of the shipment to allow customs clearance.

It is essential to fill out customs declarations correctly and accurately. A missing, incorrect or incomplete declaration can result in significant delays in parcel delivery, or even rejection by the customs authorities of the destination country. Austrian Post recommends precisely describing the contents of the shipment, indicating its actual value in euros and attaching all necessary supporting documents, particularly for shipments of a commercial nature.

The recipient of an international shipment from a country outside the EU may be liable for import customs duties and taxes. These fees, calculated by the customs authorities of the destination country based on the declared value and the nature of the merchandise, are the responsibility of the recipient. Austrian Post recommends that shippers inform their recipients of these possible additional fees to avoid unpleasant surprises upon receipt. Some shipments may be held by customs until these taxes are paid by the recipient.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track an Austrian Post parcel online, different statuses may appear as it is delivered. These messages allow you to know the position and status of your shipment at each stage of the delivery process. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: