Correos Express tracking

What is Correos Express?

Correos Express is the express messaging service of the Correos group, Spain's national postal operator. Founded in 2002 under the name Chronoexprés, the company was renamed Correos Express to better reflect its membership in the historic Spanish postal group and strengthen its visibility in the urgent parcel market. Based in Alcalá de Henares, in the Madrid region, this subsidiary has established itself as a major player in express logistics in Spain, offering delivery solutions adapted to the needs of both individuals and professionals.

The history of Correos Express is part of that of the Correos group, whose origins date back to 1716, when King Philip V structured Spanish postal services by appointing Juan Tomás de Goyeneche as Superintendent General of Posts. With over three centuries of experience in postal distribution, the group has been able to adapt to market developments by creating a branch dedicated to urgent parcel services, thus responding to the exponential growth of e-commerce and the speed requirements of modern consumers.

• Date of creation: 2002, initially under the name Chronoexprés, renamed Correos Express to affirm its identity within the postal group
• Parent company: Correos group, Spain's public postal operator owned by the State
• Headquarters: Alcalá de Henares, in the Community of Madrid, Spain
• Annual volume: More than 30 million shipments processed each year
• Workforce: More than 3,000 employees dedicated to urgent parcel services
• Infrastructure: 1,000 offices and 53 directly managed branches throughout Spanish territory

Correos Express's market positioning is based on its ability to guarantee fast deliveries across Spain, with delivery times of 24 hours to most peninsular destinations. The company is showing steady revenue growth, confirming its return to positive momentum after pandemic-related turbulence. This performance reflects the strong growth of Spain's parcel market, which now exceeds one billion shipments annually.

Correos Express distinguishes itself through its commitment to sustainability and technological modernization. The company has a fleet of 1,800 vehicles equipped with geolocation systems enabling real-time delivery tracking. The Correos group as a whole operates Spain's largest fleet of electric vehicles, with more than 2,700 eco-friendly vehicles including 2,385 100% electric vehicles, representing 17% of the total fleet. This transition to cleaner mobility is accompanied by massive investments in automation and artificial intelligence to optimize logistics operations.

Which countries does Correos Express deliver to?

Correos Express ensures particularly extensive geographic coverage, both across Spanish national territory and on an international scale. On mainland Spain, the carrier serves all provinces and municipalities, from major metropolises like Madrid, Barcelona, or Valencia to the most remote rural areas. This capillary presence is one of the company's main strengths, inherited from Correos's historical territorial network.

Beyond the Iberian Peninsula, Correos Express also ensures deliveries to Spanish island and extra-peninsular territories. The Balearic Islands (Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza, Formentera) and the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro) benefit from dedicated services with delivery times adapted to maritime and air logistics constraints. Spanish enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla, located on the North African coast, are also served with specific conditions.

• Mainland Spain: Complete coverage of all provinces, with delivery possible within 24 hours to the majority of destinations
• Portugal: Delivery throughout the country as part of the Paq 24 service, thanks to geographic proximity and logistics agreements
• Balearic Islands: Dedicated services with delivery times of 48 to 72 business hours depending on the service selected
• Canary Islands: Regular service with variable delivery times depending on the destination island
• Andorra and Gibraltar: Delivery on the second business day for these border territories
• Ceuta and Melilla: Service to Spanish enclaves in North Africa with specific delivery times
• International: More than 180 countries served worldwide, from Europe to the Americas through Asia and Oceania

Internationally, Correos Express offers impressive worldwide coverage with deliveries possible to more than 180 countries. The company has structured its destinations into several tariff zones to facilitate understanding of delivery times and costs. EU Zone 1 includes major European countries such as Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, Austria, Switzerland, and Scandinavian countries. EU Zone 2 includes Eastern and Southeast European countries, as well as certain Mediterranean countries. Specific zones cover North America, Latin America, Asia, and the rest of the world.

For European shipments, Correos Express relies on local logistics partners who ensure final distribution in each destination country. This network organization guarantees competitive delivery times while benefiting from local operators' expertise. Shipments to major European destinations typically arrive within 1 to 2 business days for express service, and 2 to 3 days for standard economic service.

What are Correos Express's delivery services and timeframes?

Correos Express offers a complete range of delivery services adapted to different needs of shippers, whether individuals wishing to send a parcel to a relative or companies managing large volumes of daily shipments. Service segmentation is primarily based on guaranteed delivery times, allowing each customer to choose the option corresponding to their level of urgency and budget.

The company's flagship service, Paq 24, is the reference solution for urgent shipments across Spanish and Portuguese peninsular territory. This service guarantees delivery within 24 business hours following parcel pickup, with distribution throughout the day. For recipients located in Ceuta, Melilla, Andorra, or Gibraltar, the deadline extends to the second business day due to specific logistics constraints for these territories.

• Paq 24: Express service with guaranteed delivery within 24 business hours to the entire Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), including two delivery attempts at no extra charge
• Paq 14h: Premium service guaranteeing delivery before 2:00 PM the next business day, ideal for professional shipments requiring morning reception
• Paq 10h: Ultra-fast option with guaranteed delivery before 10:00 AM, intended for the most urgent shipments requiring reception at the start of the day
• EquiPaq 24: Specialized service for luggage transport with next-day delivery, particularly suited to travelers and mobility needs
• Paq Punto: Delivery to pickup points within 24 hours to more than 10,000 collection points in Spain, with parcel storage for 7 days
• Standard delivery: Economic service with delivery within 24 to 48 business hours depending on destination, offering excellent value for money

For shipments to the Balearic Islands, Correos Express offers services adapted to island constraints. The Baleares Express service guarantees 48 to 72 business hour delivery times, while the maritime service offers a more economical alternative with similar timeframes. These options effectively serve Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza, and Formentera while controlling logistics costs related to maritime or air transport.

Saturday delivery is an additional option available across mainland Spanish territory. This flexibility meets the expectations of recipients unavailable during the week who wish to receive their parcels on weekends. Collection services are available Monday to Friday, excluding public holidays, with the possibility of scheduling a home or business pickup.

For e-commerce companies, Correos Express has developed specific solutions allowing easy integration of delivery services to online sales platforms. These integrations facilitate automatic shipping label generation, real-time parcel tracking, and return management, thereby improving the final customer's shopping experience.

What are Correos Express's rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

Correos Express rates vary based on several determining criteria: parcel weight, dimensions, service chosen, destination, and any additional options selected by the shipper. This modular rate structure allows each customer to compose a custom offer precisely matching their needs and budget, while benefiting from total cost transparency.

For domestic shipments within Spain, base rates depend primarily on parcel weight and service level selected. Standard service offers the most competitive rates for non-urgent shipments, while express services (Paq 24, Paq 14h, Paq 10h) involve supplements proportional to guaranteed delivery speed. Shipments to the Balearic and Canary Islands are subject to specific rate grids accounting for island logistics surcharges.

• Maximum weight per parcel: 40 kilograms per shipment unit, with surcharges charged for exceeding this weight
• Maximum multi-parcel weight: For shipments with multiple parcels, the total sum cannot exceed 65 kilograms
• Maximum dimensions (standard formula): The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 240 centimeters
• Longest side: No single dimension may exceed 150 centimeters individually
• Alternative volumetric formula: Length + (2 × width) + (2 × height) not exceeding 300 centimeters, with maximum length of 200 centimeters

Billable weight calculation takes into account both the actual weight and volumetric weight of the parcel. Volumetric weight is calculated by multiplying the three parcel dimensions (in centimeters) and dividing the result by a conversion coefficient. If volumetric weight exceeds actual weight, the volumetric weight will be used for pricing. This method ensures fair billing for light but voluminous parcels.

Additional options such as supplemental insurance, enhanced tracking, signature confirmation, or appointment-based delivery are charged in addition to the base rate. Standard insurance included in services covers limited value; shippers of valuable goods should therefore purchase additional coverage to guarantee full compensation in case of loss or damage.

Regarding merchandise restrictions, Correos Express prohibits transportation of certain product categories for regulatory, safety, or practical reasons. Prohibited items include live animals, liquid currency and negotiable securities, jewelry and precious metals, artwork and antiques, perishable goods requiring cold chain, dangerous goods (explosives, flammable products, toxic substances), and any content contrary to applicable laws. Additional restrictions may apply depending on the destination country for international shipments.

What are Correos Express's delivery options?

Correos Express provides its customers with a diverse range of delivery options allowing each shipment to be adapted to the recipient's constraints and preferences. This flexibility is a major advantage for e-retailers concerned with offering optimal delivery experience to their customers, as well as for individuals seeking the most convenient solution for receiving their parcels.

Home delivery remains the most common option, allowing the recipient to receive their parcel directly at the indicated address. The delivery driver makes up to two delivery attempts at no extra charge within standard services. In case of absence on the first attempt, a delivery notice is left and a new delivery is automatically scheduled for the next business day. This policy of two included attempts offers appreciated flexibility for recipients with variable schedules.

• Home delivery: Direct distribution to the recipient's address with two delivery attempts included in the base service
• Pickup point delivery: Parcel pickup at one of numerous partner retailers with extended hours, ideal for recipients frequently absent
• Automated locker delivery CityPaq: 24/7 pickup in Correos automated lockers distributed across Spanish territory
• Appointment delivery: The recipient chooses a time slot that suits them for parcel reception
• Saturday delivery: Option available across mainland territory for recipients unavailable during the week
• Real-time notifications: Email and/or SMS alerts at each key stage of parcel delivery

The CityPaq automated locker network represents a particularly innovative solution developed by the Correos group. These smart lockers, installed in high-traffic locations such as supermarkets, gas stations, and shopping centers, allow parcels to be retrieved anytime, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Spain has more than 2,500 CityPaq lockers distributed throughout all provinces, including islands. The recipient receives a unique PIN code via SMS or email to open the locker containing their parcel, guaranteeing optimal security.

The Paq Punto service offers a convenient alternative with delivery to more than 10,000 partner collection points distributed across Spanish territory. These pickup points, often local retailers, offer extended opening hours and allow the recipient to collect their parcel according to their availability. The parcel is stored for 7 days, giving the recipient appreciated flexibility to organize their pickup.

Delivery rescheduling options allow the recipient to change the date, time, or even delivery address after the parcel is shipped. These features, accessible via the online customer portal or mobile app, address everyday unpredictability and help reduce the rate of failed first delivery attempts. Some modifications may however incur additional delays or charges.

What should I do if my Correos Express parcel is lost or damaged?

In case of problems with a Correos Express shipment, whether a lost, damaged, or significantly delayed parcel, the carrier provides a structured complaints procedure allowing shippers and recipients to assert their rights. Quick reporting is a key factor to maximize chances of obtaining a favorable resolution, which is why it is recommended to act as soon as the problem is detected.

For a damaged parcel, vigilance should be exercised at the moment of delivery. It is strongly advised to check the condition of the external packaging before signing the delivery receipt. If visible damage is noted (dented, torn, or wet carton), the recipient must absolutely note their reservations on the delivery form before signing it. This written notation is valuable proof that damage existed before parcel acceptance. The delivery driver cannot refuse to record these reservations.

• Step 1 - Documentation: Take photos of the damaged parcel and its deteriorated contents from all angles, keeping the original packaging
• Step 2 - Quick contact: Report the problem to Correos Express as soon as possible by phone (913 277 020 or 902 122 333) or via the online form
• Step 3 - File preparation: Gather all necessary information: tracking number, names and addresses of sender and recipient, detailed description of the problem
• Step 4 - Complaints form: Complete the official complaints form with all supporting documents (photos, delivery form with reservations, purchase invoice)
• Step 5 - Claims tracking: Keep the assigned case number and follow up if necessary after the one-month legal deadline

The legal processing deadline for complaints is set at a maximum of one month from receipt of the complete file. During this period, Correos Express examines the dispute circumstances and determines responsibilities. In case of proven loss or damage attributable to the carrier, compensation is offered according to general sales conditions and coverage level subscribed at the time of shipment.

The basic insurance included in Correos Express services covers limited value. Shippers of valuable goods therefore have every interest in purchasing supplemental insurance at the time of sending, allowing declaration of the actual content value and benefiting from compensation up to the declared amount in case of loss. Without this value declaration, compensation remains capped according to regulatory rates.

If the Correos Express response is unsatisfactory or no response is provided within one month, several appeals options are available to the complainant. Juntas Arbitrales de Transporte (transport arbitration commissions) are a first option for disputes below 15,000 euros, offering fast and economical procedure. The Subdirección General de Régimen Postal, OMIC (Municipal Consumer Information Office), or Directorate General for Consumer Affairs represent other instances that can intervene in mediation.

Does Correos Express handle international shipments and customs procedures?

Correos Express offers a complete range of services for international shipments, allowing parcels to be sent to more than 180 countries worldwide. The company has developed specific expertise in managing customs procedures, a crucial aspect for shipments to destinations outside the European Union. This mastery of international administrative procedures represents a major advantage for shippers, whether individual or professional.

For shipments within the European Union, formalities are considerably simplified thanks to the principle of free movement of goods. No customs declaration is required for parcels circulating between member countries, and no customs duties are applicable. This fluidity greatly facilitates intra-European commercial exchanges and reduces delivery times. However, certain regulated goods (alcohol, medicines, cultural products) may require specific authorization even within the EU.

• Internacional Express: Fast service to more than 180 countries with delivery in 1-2 days to Europe and variable delivery times for the rest of the world, including basic international insurance
• Internacional Estándar: Economic door-to-door service to Europe with delivery in 2-3 days to major EU countries, ideal for less urgent shipments
• Required documents outside EU: Original commercial invoice accompanied by four copies, signed and sealed, drawn up in English or the destination country's language
• Customs declarations: CN22 forms for shipments valued below 380 euros, CN23 for higher values

Shipments to countries outside the European Union require mandatory customs documents. The customs declaration form must accompany each parcel containing goods, regardless of their value or nature (including gifts). This declaration details the content, its value, and origin, allowing destination country customs authorities to apply any applicable import duties and taxes. Since the new European Customs Code came into effect, these declarations must be submitted electronically.

International delivery timeframes vary significantly depending on destination and service selected. To major European countries in EU Zone 1 (Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Benelux, Switzerland, Scandinavian countries), the Internacional Express service guarantees delivery in 1 to 2 business days. For more distant destinations, timeframes range from 2 to 3 days to North America and Japan, up to a week or more to certain destinations in Latin America, Africa, or Asia. These timeframes do not include possible delays related to customs clearance.

Customs duties and import taxes are generally the responsibility of the recipient in the delivery country. Correos Express informs its customers of this responsibility, but cannot predict with certainty the exact amount of applicable duties, as this depends on the destination country's regulations and the nature of the goods. For regular commercial shipments, pre-clearance solutions and DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) delivery can be negotiated with Correos Express's commercial department.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track a Correos Express parcel online, different statuses may appear as your shipment progresses through the logistics chain. These indications allow you to know in real time the position and status of your parcel in the logistics system. Here are the main statuses and their meaning: