DHL tracking
How to track my DHL package?
Ordertracker provides a simple solution to track your DHL packages. To begin, you'll need a DHL tracking number provided by the sender or the retailer.
Enter your tracking number in the above field and hit "enter." Our tracker will then fetch the latest tracking details for your package.
You'll see a timeline showing your package's journey, including its current location, transit history, and expected delivery date. This keeps you informed about your DHL package in real time.
Where can I find my DHL tracking number?
Finding your DHL tracking number is usually simple. When you buy an item online or send a package, the tracking number is typically given by the online store or sender. If you're the recipient, the sender often provides it via email, text, or on the order confirmation page.
For online purchases, log in to your store account to find the tracking number in your order history or tracking section. You can also find it in shipping notifications sent to your email or phone.
Once you have the tracking number, you can easily use Ordertracker to monitor your package's progress. This tool shows your package's journey and estimated delivery date.
Why isn't my DHL package moving in the package tracking history?
Dealing with a DHL package that appears stuck in tracking can be frustrating. Yet, there are steps to tackle this. If you've been using Ordertracker and see no progress, start by being patient. Delays, like customs or logistical issues, can arise.
If the delay remains, contact DHL or the sender for specifics. They can offer insight or investigate. Keep your tracking number ready for a smoother process. Sometimes, misrouting or address errors cause delays. Confirm the details provided to you by the sender. Remember, DHL customer service or the sender can help resolve shipping delays.
When I track my DHL package, why does it show as "returned"?
If you're tracking your DHL package and it's marked as "returned", this usually means that the package has been sent back to the sender or the shipment origin location for a specific reason. There are a few common explanations for why a DHL package might be labeled as "returned":
An unclear or inaccurate address from sender or recipient might lead DHL to be unable to deliver, resulting in a return.
If multiple delivery attempts fail, DHL may return the package instead of holding it indefinitely.
If the recipient doesn't collect the package within a timeframe from a post office or delivery center, DHL might return it.
International packages can be return due to customs problems like missing or incorrect documents.
If your DHL package is "returned" in tracking, contact the sender or DHL customer service. This clarifies the return reason and lets you explore solutions like resending or refunding. Please note that return procedures can vary based on DHL policies and circumstances.
Why does the DHL parcel tracking timeline indicate that my order cannot be found?
When your DHL parcel tracking lacks information, it may indicate a "cannot be found" message. This happens for a few reasons:
Ensure your tracking number is accurate. Even a small mistake can prevent the system from recognizing your package.
Sometimes, tracking details might be slower to update in DHL system. Wait and check again later for potential updates.
If the package was recently sent, it might not be processed by DHL yet. Tracking should appear shortly.
About DHL
DHL is a global logistics company that provides international shipping and courier services. With a presence in over 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL offers a wide range of express delivery, freight transportation, and supply chain solutions. The company is known for its reliable and efficient delivery services, catering to both individuals and businesses. DHL's extensive network and advanced tracking systems ensure timely and secure shipments across the globe.
How to contact DHL?
If you are experiencing issues with the delivery process managed by DHL, please do not hesitate to contact their customer support.
International express courier and worldwide fast delivery
DHL Express is a leading international express mail service, specializing in the fast delivery of documents and parcels worldwide. A subsidiary of the postal and logistics group Deutsche Post DHL, DHL Express relies on an extensive global network to ensure door-to-door shipments reliably and efficiently. The DHL brand is recognized for its trucks and planes bearing the yellow and red logo, a symbol of its presence in over 220 countries and territories. Thanks to its expertise in logistics and customs clearance, DHL Express enables businesses and individuals to ship urgent international shipments with confidence.
Origins and historical development
Founded in 1969 in the United States, DHL takes its name from the initials of its three founders: Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom, and Robert Lynn. The company started with an innovative air courier service between San Francisco (California) and Honolulu (Hawaii), quickly transporting documents across the Pacific Ocean. This revolutionary concept of accelerated delivery met with immediate success and paved the way for the creation of an international express network.
During the 1970s, DHL expanded its operations outside the United States, establishing a presence in Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. A pioneer of the "door-to-door" express delivery model, the company set up regional transit platforms to speed up the transport of shipments. In 1983, DHL opened a major air hub in Cincinnati (United States) to strengthen its logistics capabilities in North America. Faced with growing competition from other express services like FedEx, DHL also developed its domestic U.S. network in the 1980s.
From the late 1990s, DHL gradually came under the control of Deutsche Post (the German national postal service) which sought to expand internationally. Deutsche Post first acquired a majority stake in DHL in 2001, then the entire company in 2002, making DHL Express its division specializing in global express shipments. Subsequently, the name DHL was adopted to designate all of the group's international activities. Integration within Deutsche Post DHL allowed DHL Express to benefit from an even larger logistics network and increased resources. Over the decades, DHL Express has continued to innovate, notably by adopting computerized parcel tracking by barcode, digitizing transport documents, and automating shipment sorting early on.
Global positioning and serviced areas
DHL Express operates on a global scale and serves virtually every country in the world, including remote or isolated destinations. This exceptional geographic coverage makes DHL an essential logistics player for international trade. The DHL Express network is structured around strategically located hubs (sorting centers) on each continent, allowing it to centralize and then quickly redistribute shipments to their final destination. For example, DHL has major air sorting centers in Leipzig (Germany) for Europe, Cincinnati (United States) for the Americas, and Hong Kong for the Asia-Pacific region. Thanks to these infrastructures, DHL Express ensures daily connections between major global metropolises and can reach emerging or hard-to-access markets via local partnerships when necessary. Its international presence is accompanied by a fine knowledge of local regulations and customs procedures in each country served.
Service specifics
As an express carrier, DHL Express stands out for its very short transit times and a fully integrated service, from pickup to final delivery. The company handles both urgent documents and small to medium-sized parcels, as well as express freight within certain weight and size limits. Shipments are generally delivered door-to-door, meaning DHL takes care of every step, including international customs clearance if necessary. The DHL Express service range includes guaranteed delivery options to meet customer needs: for example, delivery offers before a defined time the next day (next morning delivery) or economical options for less urgent parcels. Regardless of the option chosen, DHL Express ensures proactive shipment tracking and informs customers in case of unforeseen events.
To facilitate receipt, DHL also offers flexible solutions through its On Demand Delivery service: the recipient can reschedule delivery, choose a time slot, redirect their parcel to another address or a DHL service point, or even request temporary hold during an absence. Other complementary services are available, such as transport insurance, proof of delivery by signature, or the management of cash on delivery and returns. All these specifics position DHL Express as a premium provider, capable of adjusting logistics to customer constraints while maintaining minimal transit times.
Parcel tracking and tracking numbers
Each shipment handled by DHL Express is assigned a unique tracking number that allows real-time tracking of its journey. This tracking number, often composed of 10 digits or a combination of letters and numbers, is scanned at each key stage of the parcel's route. For example, DHL Express numbers may start with specific letters like JD or JJD, followed by a series of numbers. This identification code appears on the shipping label and is communicated to both the sender and the recipient.
Thanks to this number, the sender and recipient can check the delivery progress online. DHL Express provides a tracking tool (track & trace) on its website and a dedicated mobile app, where you simply enter the tracking number to see the latest updates. At each transit through a platform, each customs clearance, and each delivery attempt, the parcel's status is updated in the system. Tracking information provides details such as the departure time from a sorting center, arrival in the destination country, customs clearance, delivery by the courier, etc. This continuous tracking provides total transparency to customers and allows anticipation of potential delays or delivery issues.
The DHL Express tracking number comes in different forms depending on the service used, but it remains the central element for querying DHL's information system. For example, a standard DHL Express shipment will have a purely numeric 10-digit identifier, while a shipment handled via DHL eCommerce may have a longer identifier including letters. In case of questions or loss of the number, DHL customer service can help identify a shipment from other references (such as the order number or recipient's contact details). The following section presents a list of the main tracking statuses that can be encountered when tracking a DHL Express parcel, with their meaning in English.
Group organization and divisions
DHL Express is one of the flagship divisions of the Deutsche Post DHL (DPDHL) group, alongside other specialized business units. The group is structured into several complementary branches: the Express division (urgent international express mail); the Global Forwarding and Freight division, which manages international freight shipping by air and sea; the Supply Chain division, dedicated to contract logistics and the management of complex supply chains; the eCommerce Solutions division, focused on parcel delivery for online commerce; and finally the Post & Parcel Germany branch, responsible for domestic mail and parcels in Germany. Within this organization, DHL Express focuses on fast international deliveries, offering a premium service distinct from traditional postal services. This inter-division collaboration allows DHL to offer its customers a comprehensive logistics offering covering all needs, while capitalizing on the global brand recognition of DHL.
Logistics infrastructure and technologies
To meet its commitments to speed and reliability, DHL Express relies on significant logistics infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies. The company operates a dedicated fleet of cargo planes managed by its airline subsidiaries (such as DHL Aviation), which ensures the intercontinental overnight transport of parcels between sorting centers. These large aircraft connect major distribution centers daily to deliver express freight before the start of local delivery rounds. In addition, DHL has a ground fleet of utility vehicles and trucks, often recognizable by their yellow and red colors, for picking up shipments from customers and last-mile delivery.
DHL Express facilities include over 3000 centers, depots, and warehouses worldwide. These sites are equipped with automated sorting systems capable of processing tens of thousands of parcels per hour. DHL was a pioneer in adopting innovative logistics technologies: automatic reading of barcodes and shipping labels, GPS tracking of vehicles, and more recently the use of artificial intelligence to optimize routes or predict shipping volumes. The company also invests in eco-friendly solutions, deploying electric vehicles for urban deliveries and experimenting with sustainable aviation fuels to reduce its carbon footprint. All these physical and digital infrastructures enable DHL Express to offer a consistent and reliable service worldwide, even during peak demand periods.
Reputation and role in global transport
Over time, DHL Express has built a solid reputation in the transport and logistics industry. Often cited as one of the most international companies in the world, DHL has played a major role in the rise of e-commerce and the globalization of trade by offering fast delivery solutions between businesses and individuals in different countries. Its reliability in meeting deadlines and handling formalities (such as customs clearance) is particularly appreciated by professional customers who regularly entrust it with critical shipments.
The DHL brand has become synonymous with express delivery and is among the global leaders in the sector, alongside other major international carriers. The Deutsche Post DHL group emphasizes strong commitments to corporate responsibility, which contributes to the positive image of DHL Express. For example, the company has committed to achieving carbon neutrality for its logistics activities by 2050, and it regularly participates in humanitarian initiatives. DHL Express teams, through the GoHelp program, assist during natural disasters by providing emergency logistics free of charge (transporting relief supplies, coordinating at affected airports). These actions reinforce DHL's reputation for reliability and citizenship worldwide.
DHL Express tracking statuses
| Status | Description |
|---|---|
| Shipment created | A shipping label has been issued and the shipment information is recorded in the DHL system, but the parcel has not yet been physically handed over to DHL |
| Pickup scheduled | DHL has scheduled the collection of the parcel from the sender. A DHL courier will come to pick up the shipment at the agreed pickup point |
| Dropped off by sender | The parcel has been dropped off by the sender at a DHL service point (agency, service point, or automatic locker in the DHL network) |
| Pickup completed | The parcel has been picked up by a DHL courier during a pickup at the sender's address. It is now entering the DHL transport network |
| Processed at origin center | The shipment has been processed (sorted, scanned) at the initial DHL sorting center, in the country of origin of the shipment |
| Processed at export center | The parcel has been processed at the international departure sorting center (export platform) before its shipment to the destination country |
| Arrived in destination country | The parcel has arrived in the recipient's country. It may be subject to import customs checks before continuing its internal transit |
| Processed at import center | The shipment has been processed at the main sorting center in the destination country (import platform) after its arrival in the country |
| Arrived at delivery agency | The parcel has arrived at the local DHL agency responsible for final delivery (distribution center near the recipient's address) |
| Out for delivery | The parcel is on its way to its final destination, transported by the DHL courier on their delivery route (the parcel is "in the delivery vehicle") |
| Delivered | The parcel has been successfully handed over to the indicated recipient (or an authorized person) and the delivery is therefore confirmed as completed |
| Picked up by recipient | The recipient has collected their parcel at a designated pickup location (for example) a DHL service point or a partner post office) |
| Unsuccessful delivery attempt | A delivery attempt was made, but the delivery could not be completed (the parcel could not be handed over for some reason, such as absence or inaccessible access) |
| Recipient absent | The DHL courier presented themselves but no one could receive the parcel at the address. A delivery notice was left and the parcel is on hold pending a new delivery or pickup by the recipient |
| New delivery attempt | A new delivery is underway following a previous unsuccessful attempt (the parcel is subject to a second delivery attempt) |
| On hold | The parcel is on hold at a pickup point or DHL agency, awaiting the recipient to collect it (following an instruction or after a missed delivery) |
| Not picked up by recipient | The parcel was not collected by the recipient within the allotted time at the pickup point. It is then generally returned to the sender or redirected according to instructions |
| Returned to sender | The shipment is being returned to the original sender, or has already been returned to them. This status appears when delivery to the recipient could not be completed (for example) storage period exceeded, refusal of receipt, address problem) |
| Refused by recipient | The recipient refused to accept the parcel upon presentation. The parcel will then be returned to the sender, unless otherwise instructed |
| Incorrect address | The delivery address provided is incorrect or incomplete, preventing the parcel from being handed over. DHL will attempt to obtain the correct address or return the parcel to the sender if correction is not possible |
| Unknown recipient | The parcel could not be delivered because the name or identification of the recipient is not recognized at the indicated address (for example, person not listed at this address) |
| Missing delivery information | Additional details are needed to route the shipment (for example) missing postal code, required customs documents, or recipient's contact number). The recipient or sender must provide this information so that delivery can resume |
| Non-compliant with transport conditions | The parcel does not meet DHL's acceptance conditions (overweight or oversized, undeclared prohibited or dangerous content, etc.) and cannot be transported. It will be put on hold for return or regularization |
| Parcel damaged | The shipment's packaging was damaged during transport. The parcel may have been repackaged or set aside for evaluation. DHL may contact the sender or recipient if the damage prevents delivery |
| Fees pending payment | Delivery is suspended pending payment of fees by the recipient, typically customs duties or import taxes. Once these fees are paid, the parcel can be delivered |
| On hold (pending) | The shipment is temporarily blocked in the DHL network. This generic "on hold" status may occur in case of an administrative issue, operational delay, or missing documents. The parcel will resume transit once the incident is resolved |
| Delivery deferred | Delivery has been postponed to a later date. This may be due to a request from the recipient (vacation, absence) or a rescheduling decided by DHL (for example, adverse weather conditions). The parcel remains securely stored awaiting the new delivery date |
| Delivery by third party | The last segment of the transit is entrusted to a local partner or subcontractor (for example, the postal service of the destination country). No additional detailed tracking information is expected from DHL for this step, as delivery is performed by the third party |
| Routing error | The parcel was directed to the wrong route or destination by mistake. DHL will correct the shipment's trajectory (rerouting to the correct destination) but this may result in an additional delivery delay |
| Transfer to local customs | The parcel has been handed over to local customs services for inspection or formalities. In some particular cases, the recipient will need to collect the shipment directly from customs authorities once checks are completed and any duties paid |
| Indirect delivery | The parcel was delivered by the DHL courier to a trusted third party, such as a receptionist, caretaker, or neighbor, in accordance with delivery instructions. This third party accepts the parcel on behalf of the official recipient |
| Shipment canceled | The shipment was canceled before being picked up or during transit. DHL will not deliver this parcel, usually at the sender's request or due to a duplicate shipment |