CTT Express tracking

What is CTT Express?

CTT Express is the express parcel delivery branch of the CTT Group (Correios de Portugal), the historic postal operator of Portugal. This company relies on more than five centuries of postal experience, with the CTT Group having been founded in 1520 by King Manuel I of Portugal during the Renaissance, making it one of the oldest companies still in operation worldwide. The acronym CTT comes from the former name "Correios, Telégrafos e Telefones" and reflects the historical services the group originally offered.

Over the centuries, CTT has managed to evolve and adapt to transformations in the postal and logistics market. The creation of the express branch dates back to 1996, the year the company structured its rapid delivery services to meet the growing demand from professionals and individuals. This subsidiary dedicated to express services allowed CTT to extend its offerings to urgent parcels and position itself in a rapidly expanding segment of rapid messaging.

CTT Express has established itself as a major player in rapid messaging on the Iberian Peninsula, with a strong presence in both Portugal and Spain. The company offers parcel and document transport services on an urgent basis, intended for both e-commerce businesses and individuals wishing to send important shipments quickly. The carrier distinguishes itself by its ability to combine the reliability of a historic postal operator with the responsiveness and flexibility required by the express transport market.

• Date of creation: The CTT Group was founded in 1520, while the CTT Express branch was officially structured in 1996 for express delivery services
• Parent company: CTT Group - Correios de Portugal SA, the national postal operator of Portugal and a diversified commercial group in e-commerce and banking services
• Headquarters: Avenue D. João II, no. 13, 1999-001 Lisbon, Portugal
• Presence in Spain: Spanish headquarters located at Avenida Europa number 9, 28821 Coslada (Madrid)
• Logistics network: More than 20,000 service points (PUDO), 22 hubs and 257 depots distributed between Portugal and Spain
• Automated infrastructure: More than 1,000 automated parcel lockers under the Locky brand available 24/7

To strengthen its international presence, the CTT Group established itself in Spain in 2005 by acquiring the messaging company Tourline Express, which itself was founded in 1996. This strategic operation marked the starting point for CTT's Iberian expansion in the rapid delivery market. In 2019, Tourline Express was renamed CTT Express to harmonize brand identity between Spain and Portugal, unifying the denomination of express services in both countries.

CTT Express's market positioning is based on the combination of an exceptional territorial network on the Iberian Peninsula and a range of services adapted to all shipping needs. Whether for domestic shipments, to island territories or internationally, the carrier offers flexible delivery options meeting the expectations of individuals and e-commerce professionals alike.

Which countries does CTT Express deliver to?

CTT Express ensures particularly extensive geographical coverage, both on Portuguese and Spanish territories and on an international scale. The main strength of this carrier lies in its dominance of the Iberian market, where it has become one of the undisputed leaders in parcel delivery. In Portugal, the company benefits from the historical infrastructure of the national postal service to serve all municipalities, from major metropolises like Lisbon and Porto to the most remote villages in Alentejo or the Azores.

In Spain, CTT Express inherited the network developed by Tourline Express since 1996, which it has considerably modernized and expanded in recent years. The carrier now serves all Spanish provinces, including the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands, offering complete coverage of the Iberian Peninsula. This binational presence constitutes a major competitive advantage for companies trading between the two countries, as CTT Express treats Spain and Portugal as a single domestic market in commercial terms.

• Continental Portugal: Full coverage of all regions, from Lisbon and Porto to rural areas in the interior of the country
• Portuguese autonomous regions: Azores archipelago and Madeira Island served with dedicated services
• Peninsular Spain: All autonomous communities covered, from major cities to rural localities
• Spanish islands: The Balearic Islands (Majorca, Minorca, Ibiza) and the Canary Islands (Tenerife, Gran Canaria, etc.) are included in the distribution network
• Europe: Delivery to all European Union countries and beyond, including the United Kingdom, Switzerland and Norway
• International: More than 150 countries and territories served worldwide, covering the Americas, Asia, Africa and Oceania

Internationally, CTT Express relies on Universal Postal Union agreements and partnerships with national postal operators in each destination country. The company regularly ships to destinations such as Canada, France, Brazil, China, Italy, Switzerland, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and many other countries. This worldwide coverage makes CTT Express a suitable logistics partner for Portuguese and Spanish companies exporting internationally.

It should be noted that certain restrictions may apply depending on destinations. For example, shipments of goods to the United States, including gifts, may be temporarily suspended depending on the geopolitical context and customs regulations in force. Similarly, shipments to certain countries outside the European Union require specific customs formalities that the shipper must anticipate.

What are the CTT Express delivery services and timeframes?

CTT Express offers a complete range of shipping services adapted to urgency and the nature of shipments. The carrier has developed several formulas allowing it to meet the varied needs of its customer base, whether ultra-urgent same-day deliveries or economical shipments with more flexible timeframes. This diversity of services is one of the major assets of CTT Express on the Iberian market.

The company's flagship service remains national express delivery, which guarantees accelerated distribution of parcels throughout Portugal and Spain. For the most urgent shipments, CTT Express has developed premium options allowing delivery guaranteed within one hour, thus meeting the requirements of professionals with strict deadline requirements.

• CTT Express 10:00: This premium service guarantees delivery before 10:00 AM the next business day after collection. It is available only in provincial capitals and large urban areas. This option is perfectly suited for urgent documents or spare parts requiring morning receipt.
• CTT Express 14:00: An express formula that ensures delivery before 2:00 PM the next business day after shipping. This service offers an interesting compromise between urgency and cost for shipments that must imperatively arrive in the morning.
• CTT Express 24: The standard express service that guarantees delivery during the next business day after collection. This modality includes a free delivery time window prediction service, allowing the recipient to anticipate parcel arrival.
• CTT Express 48 (non-urgent shipments): For less pressing shipments, this economical formula offers delivery between the first and second business day, within a timeframe never exceeding 48 hours. It offers an advantageous rate compared to express options.
• CTT Now (same-day delivery): This ultra-fast service, available in certain urban areas, allows delivery of a parcel the same day it is sent. CTT Now handles and distributes local shipments in just a few hours, accepting parcels up to approximately 30 kg when distance and local organization permit.
• Media Delivery: A specialized option dedicated to shipping media items such as books, CDs, DVDs and other media. It offers economical pricing conditions and appropriate handling for this type of cultural products.

Delivery timeframes naturally vary depending on the shipment's destination. For domestic shipments to Portugal or Spain, the standard express service generally ensures delivery within 24 business hours. Shipments between Portugal and Spain are handled with the same efficiency, the two countries being considered a unique domestic market by CTT Express.

For European destinations, timeframes generally range from 3 to 5 business days depending on the country and service chosen. CTT's Blue Post service notably offers express delivery in less than 3 business days to most European countries. For intercontinental destinations, timeframes can extend from 5 to 7 business days or more depending on geographical distance and possible customs formalities.

CTT Express's general delivery hours extend from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday through Friday. The carrier does not offer standard deliveries on Saturday and Sunday, although certain premium services may be available on weekends in specific cases and subject to an additional fee.

What are the rates and maximum dimensions accepted by CTT Express?

Shipping rates via CTT Express depend on several combined criteria, including the selected service, the weight and dimensions of the parcel, as well as the geographical destination zone. The carrier maintains a competitive pricing policy on the Iberian market, with prices generally below the European average for comparable services. This price competitiveness is one of CTT Express's assets for e-commerce companies and individuals concerned with controlling their shipping costs.

For domestic shipments to Portugal and Spain, CTT Express offers particularly attractive rates that vary according to parcel weight and delivery urgency. A standard shipment under 2 kg to a national destination comes at a moderate cost, while premium express services such as CTT Express 10:00 naturally incur additional charges related to the hourly guarantee. Large companies and regular e-commerce merchants can negotiate contracts with preferential rates based on their shipping volumes.

• Maximum weight per parcel: CTT Express accepts parcels weighing up to 40 kg per unit. This threshold allows shipping the vast majority of common merchandise while ensuring safe handling conditions.
• Maximum dimensions: The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 240 cm, with no individual measurement exceeding 150 cm. These dimensional limits conform to express transport industry standards.
• Volumetric weight: For light but bulky parcels, CTT Express applies volumetric weight calculation according to the formula: length × width × height / 6000. Maximum volumetric weight is 167 kg/m³. The rate will be based on the higher weight between actual weight and volumetric weight.
• Bulk shipments: Large companies can enter into specific contracts to ship merchandise up to 700 kilograms in Spain and Portugal, with terms negotiated on a case-by-case basis.

To find out the exact cost of a shipment, CTT Express provides an online calculator on its official website. By entering the weight, dimensions and destination address, the shipper immediately obtains an indicative rate estimate. This tool allows quick comparison of different service options and selection of the formula best suited to your needs and budget.

Payment methods accepted for individuals include payment by bank card or via PayPal. Cash on delivery payment is not offered for shipments ordered online. Companies with a customer account can benefit from billing facilities and negotiated payment terms.

It is important to note that certain types of merchandise are subject to shipping restrictions or special conditions. Dangerous materials, perishable products without appropriate packaging, exceptionally valuable objects and certain regulated goods may be refused or require specific formalities. CTT Express recommends shippers to consult the list of prohibited or conditional merchandise before any shipment.

What are the CTT Express delivery options?

CTT Express has developed a range of flexible delivery options to adapt to the varied lifestyles of recipients. Aware that home availability often presents a challenge for active people, the carrier offers several alternatives allowing reception of parcels at the most convenient time and place. This flexibility represents a significant competitive advantage in a market where customer experience is becoming a major differentiating factor.

Home delivery remains the most commonly used option. The CTT Express driver presents himself at the stated address during standard distribution hours, generally between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM Monday through Friday. For premium services such as CTT Express 10:00 or 14:00, delivery occurs before the guaranteed time, offering increased predictability to the recipient.

• Standard home delivery: Distribution to the recipient's address during regular delivery hours. The driver makes a first attempt and, in case of absence, generally leaves a notice of call.
• Time window prediction service: Included free with the CTT Express 24 service, this system sends the recipient an estimate of the delivery time window, allowing them to organize their day accordingly.
• Collect Express points: A network of partner pickup points where the recipient can collect their parcel at their convenience. If a Collect Express point is chosen, the recipient has up to 10 business days to pick up their parcel.
• Locky automated lockers: CTT has more than 1,000 automated lockers available 24/7 under the Locky brand. These lockers are installed in strategic locations such as shopping centers, supermarkets, service stations and train stations, allowing collection at any time.
• Flexible delivery: If the recipient is absent during the first attempt, CTT Express offers a flexible delivery service allowing choice of where and when to receive the parcel during the second attempt.
• Multiple attempts: In case of recipient absence, CTT Express makes up to two delivery attempts before offering alternative options such as pickup at a relay point or rescheduling.

The Locky locker system deserves special attention as it represents a major innovation in CTT Express's offerings. These automated lockers allow receiving, sending or returning parcels autonomously, without depending on traditional delivery hours. To access a parcel in a Locky locker, the recipient receives a PIN code or QR code by email and SMS upon parcel arrival. They then only need to visit the chosen locker and enter their code to open the corresponding compartment.

Use of Locky lockers is free when the online merchant has a partnership with CTT. Otherwise, the customer can still choose this option by registering on the Cacifos24H customer space and purchasing credits, with each use corresponding to one credit. It should be noted that parcels requiring signature upon receipt or shipments from countries outside the European Union (which may require customs inspections) cannot be delivered to automated lockers.

A strategic partnership between DHL eCommerce and CTT Expresso provides for the deployment of several thousand new parcel lockers over the coming years, which will significantly strengthen the network of automated pickup points on the Iberian Peninsula.

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

Faced with a lost, damaged or significantly delayed parcel, CTT Express has implemented a structured complaint procedure allowing customers to assert their rights and obtain compensation if applicable. It is essential to react quickly upon discovering a problem, as the deadlines for filing a complaint are limited by the carrier's general terms and conditions and by applicable regulations.

The first step in case of a damaged parcel is to check the condition of the packaging at the time of delivery and, if possible, to open the parcel in the presence of the driver. If damage is found, it is imperative to note detailed reservations on the delivery slip describing the observed damage precisely. This written notation is essential evidence for the rest of the process. The recipient also has the right to refuse a manifestly damaged parcel by completing the appropriate form.

• Notification deadline: In case of a damaged parcel received, a certified letter with proof of receipt should be sent to the carrier within 3 days following delivery in accordance with merchandise transport regulations.
• Initial telephone contact: To report a problem, contact CTT Express customer service at 900 110 898 (toll-free number from Spain) or at +34 916 60 22 00. From Portugal, the number to dial is +351 21 790 82 00.
• Online form: CTT Express provides a dedicated form for incidents on its website, accessible at the "Incidencias con tu envío" section. This form allows reporting a missing, damaged or delayed parcel in a structured manner.
• Postal address for official complaint: To give an official character to your complaint, address your correspondence to: Servicio de atención al cliente, Avenida Europa number 9, 28821 Coslada (Madrid), Spain.
• Supporting documents: Attach all useful documents to your complaint: copy of the delivery slip with noted reservations, photos of damage, purchase invoice proving the value of merchandise, and any other supporting evidence.

The complaint procedure generally unfolds over several stages. Following initial notification by telephone or online, CTT Express's customer relations service examines the file and may request additional information. Once the file is complete, the company conducts an internal investigation to determine responsibilities and, if applicable, offers compensation to the customer.

Regarding compensation, CTT Express applies standard merchandise transport rules. The carrier's liability is generally limited to a fixed amount per kilogram of damaged merchandise, with a ceiling per lost or damaged parcel. For shipments of significant value, it is recommended to take out additional insurance (ad valorem insurance) which allows compensation up to the declared real value of the merchandise.

It is important to note that CTT Express customer service in Spain primarily operates in Spanish. If you are not comfortable maintaining a conversation in this language, favor written communication via the online form or by mail, using translation services if necessary. Customer service is available 24/7 for problems related to shipments.

Does CTT Express handle international shipments and customs formalities?

CTT Express offers a complete range of services for international shipments, allowing parcels to be shipped from Portugal and Spain to more than 150 countries worldwide. The carrier relies on its integration into the Universal Postal Union network and partnerships with national postal operators in each destination country to ensure routing and final distribution of parcels abroad.

International shipments via CTT Express use different transport modes depending on destination and urgency. Air transport is favored for express shipments to distant destinations, guaranteeing reduced timeframes of a few business days. Land transport is used for European connections, notably to bordering or nearby countries. Maritime transport may be used for certain bulk shipments to distant destinations where timeframe is not a major constraint.

• Blue Post service: Express delivery in less than 3 business days to European countries and 5 business days to worldwide destinations. This priority service is suitable for urgent international shipments.
• Correio Registado Internacional (International registered mail): Allows secure sending of documents and goods up to 2 kg with tracking and proof of delivery. Delivery timeframe of 3 business days to Europe and less than 5 business days to the rest of the world.
• Green Post: Economical fixed-price option without stamp, with delivery timeframes of 5 to 7 business days to worldwide destinations. This formula is suitable for non-urgent shipments where cost is more important than speed.
• B2B shipments and volumes: Companies can enter into international shipping service contracts adapted to their volumes, with negotiated pricing conditions and dedicated support for customs formalities.

For shipments to countries located outside the European Union, customs formalities are mandatory and must be anticipated by the shipper. Customs authorities in third countries require an Electronic Advance Data (EAD) notice that must be transmitted before shipping. CTT provides an online form "Criar Envio de Correio Internacional" allowing entry of required customs information.

Customs documents to be attached to the shipment vary depending on the value and nature of the merchandise. For items with a value below 300 SDR (Special Drawing Rights), a CN22 customs declaration generally suffices. Beyond this threshold, a more detailed CN23 declaration is required, including notably the harmonized tariff code (HS code) of the merchandise. For shipments with a declared value exceeding 1,000 euros, certified invoices or proforma invoices must accompany the shipment.

• CN22 declaration: For moderate value shipments, this simplified form indicates the nature and value of merchandise shipped.
• CN23 declaration: Required for shipments exceeding 300 SDR, this detailed declaration includes the harmonized tariff code, precise description of merchandise and their value.
• Commercial invoices: Mandatory for professional shipments and merchandise with a value exceeding 1,000 euros.
• Opening authorization: At airports, parcels may be opened for customs inspection. Without prior opening authorization from the shipper, parcels unable to be verified will be returned to origin.

All transport and customs documents must be placed in a transparent plastic envelope fixed to the outside of the parcel. Content description must be sufficiently detailed and drafted in English or in a language understood in the countries of origin and destination to facilitate customs clearance. A vague or incomplete description may result in significant delays or even rejection of the parcel by customs authorities in the destination country.

It is important to note that certain countries may apply customs duties and import taxes on merchandise received from abroad. These fees are generally the responsibility of the recipient and must be paid before final delivery. The shipper should inform the recipient of this possibility to avoid any surprise at receipt. Customs processing time varies by country and may add several days to initial transit, with tracking not updating during this period.

Understanding tracking statuses

When tracking a CTT Express parcel online, different statuses may appear to inform you of your shipment's progress at each stage of its routing. Each parcel is assigned a unique tracking number, generally consisting of 13 to 22 alphanumeric characters. Formats vary depending on shipment origin: parcels processed through the Portuguese network often use a short alphanumeric format (example: AB123456789PT), while shipments from Spain may contain an entirely numeric code of 22 to 25 digits. Here are the main CTT Express tracking statuses and their meaning: