EMPS tracking

What is EMPS?

EMPS, an acronym for Shenzhen Express Mail & Parcel Service Freight Forwarding Co., Ltd, is an international transportation and logistics company specializing in shipping parcels from China to the rest of the world. Founded in the late 1980s in the Shenzhen region, this Chinese company has gradually established itself as a key player for cross-border shipments, particularly for online sellers and e-commerce platforms. The company has leveraged the explosive growth of global e-commerce to develop its activities and expand its logistics network on an international scale.

EMPS's history began as a small local coastal transport company in Asia, initially operating maritime services in the Shenzhen region of China. Over the decades, the company significantly expanded its scope of operations to become a complete logistics provider offering shipping solutions by sea, air, and land. This evolution demonstrates the company's ability to adapt to changes in international trade and growing consumer expectations regarding delivery times and reliability.

Despite the presence of the term "Express Mail & Parcel Service" in its full name, EMPS is not limited to traditional postal shipments. The company adopts a multimodal approach by combining different transport modes according to the characteristics of each shipment. This flexibility allows it to optimize delivery times and costs for its clients, whether individuals, small businesses, or large online sales platforms. The carrier has built a solid reputation thanks to its expertise in "special lines" connecting China to the world's major consumer markets.

• Full name: Shenzhen Express Mail & Parcel Service Freight Forwarding Co., Ltd, a designation that reflects the company's main activities in international transit and logistics
• Founding date: Late 1980s, a period corresponding to the first economic reforms in China and the country's opening to international trade
• Headquarters: Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, China, at the heart of the world's largest manufacturing zone
• Main activity: International parcel transit, e-commerce logistics, freight and warehousing services for cross-border shipments
• Positioning: Specialist in shipments from China to international markets, particularly the United States and Europe

EMPS distinguishes itself through strategic partnerships with major international postal operators and express carriers. The company works closely with major players such as FedEx, DHL, UPS, USPS, Hong Kong Post, and China EMS to ensure final distribution of parcels in destination countries. This collaborative approach allows EMPS to offer extended geographic coverage while benefiting from its partners' local infrastructure for the final mile delivery.

EMPS's business philosophy rests on several fundamental pillars. Its motto "All for customers" reflects a resolutely customer-focused orientation. The company's quality policy revolves around four key values: shipment safety, solution economy, service convenience, and operational efficiency. These principles guide all of the carrier's activities and help build loyalty among a clientele composed primarily of online sellers and e-commerce operators.

Which countries does EMPS deliver to?

EMPS has developed over the years an international network covering numerous destinations across continents. Starting from its historic base in China, the carrier gradually expanded its logistics capabilities to serve the world's major markets. The company now has regional distribution centers strategically positioned to optimize parcel flows to major geographic zones such as North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.

The United States is EMPS's main market outside of China. The carrier has developed dedicated "special lines" for shipments to this country, particularly through its partnership with USPS (United States Postal Service) for final distribution. These services allow Chinese sellers to ship their products to American consumers within competitive timeframes and at attractive rates. The American special line represents a significant portion of EMPS's business.

In Europe, EMPS serves all the continent's major countries. The carrier relies on its partnerships with local operators and express services such as DHL to ensure parcel distribution once they arrive in Europe. The most frequent destinations include France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and Benelux countries. Special European lines have been established to optimize delivery times to these markets.

• North America: United States and Canada, with particularly strong presence in the American market thanks to partnerships with USPS and FedEx
• Europe: France, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, and most other European countries via dedicated special lines
• Asia-Pacific: Japan, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, and the region's major markets with direct connections from China
• South America: Brazil and other continental countries via dedicated South American special lines
• Middle East: Coverage of the region's major markets with dedicated services
• Africa: South Africa and other African destinations accessible via the partner network

EMPS collaborates with Hong Kong Post and uses its SPEEDPOST express network for certain destinations. This partnership provides access to recognized postal infrastructure and offers additional delivery options to clients. The joint "Easy Mail" project between EMPS and Hong Kong Post uses air transport to route shipments to their final recipients, thus offering an alternative to traditionally slower maritime shipments.

EMPS's geographic coverage continues to expand based on demand and market opportunities. The company adapts its network to the needs of its clientele, primarily composed of online sellers shipping from China to consumers worldwide. This flexibility allows EMPS to respond to changes in international e-commerce and support its clients in developing new markets.

What are EMPS's shipping services and delivery times?

EMPS offers a diverse range of shipping services designed to meet the various needs of shippers in terms of delivery times and budget. The company has developed several delivery options allowing each customer to choose the solution best suited to their priorities. From economical service to express transport, EMPS covers the entire spectrum of logistics needs for international shipments from China.

The standard delivery service is the basic option offered by EMPS for routine shipments. This shipping mode prioritizes economic efficiency and suits most parcels, whether documents, small packages, or larger merchandise. Standard delivery can use maritime routes or multimodal combinations to minimize transport costs. Delivery times generally vary between 15 and 45 business days depending on the final destination, with an average of 7 to 90 days for the most distant international shipments.

For urgent shipments, EMPS has an express service that ensures priority parcel handling. This option significantly reduces transit time compared to standard service by using the fastest transport means, particularly air freight for long distances. Express service is intended for customers who need quick delivery and are willing to pay a premium for shorter delivery times.

• Standard delivery: Economical service with variable delivery times depending on destination, generally between 15 and 45 business days for main destinations, potentially up to 90 days for certain remote areas
• Express delivery: Priority handling by air for urgent shipments, with delivery times reduced by half or more compared to standard service
• Same-day delivery: Premium service available in certain urban areas in China, guaranteeing distribution on the day of shipment for extremely urgent local shipments
• Special lines: Dedicated services to specific destinations such as the United States (USPS Special Line), Europe (European Special Line), South America, and the Middle East

Special lines represent an important characteristic of EMPS's offering. These dedicated services were developed to optimize shipments to key markets. The USPS special line offers dual customs clearance with export and import formalities handled in advance, which significantly accelerates international transit by limiting delays usually associated with customs checks. Similar lines exist for Europe, South America, the Middle East, and Singapore.

EMPS collaborates with several international express carriers for its fastest services. The company offers options via FedEx, DHL, UPS, Hong Kong EMS, and China EMS depending on destinations and customer needs. These partnerships provide a wide range of choices in terms of value-for-money and delivery times. Customers can select the final carrier that best meets their expectations.

Actual delivery times depend on many factors beyond the chosen service. The final destination plays a determining role, with urban areas generally being served faster than isolated regions. Weather conditions, customs procedures, and local carriers' processing capacities can also influence total delivery duration. EMPS recommends allowing extra time for shipments to distant destinations or during periods of high commercial activity.

What are EMPS's rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

EMPS's pricing system is based on a calculation method taking into account several parameters related to shipment characteristics and desired destination. As with most international carriers, the price of a shipment varies depending on weight, dimensions, delivery country, and selected service. EMPS strives to offer transparent pricing by clearly detailing the different components of total cost.

Weight is the first pricing criterion for EMPS shipments. The carrier applies the volumetric weight principle, commonly used in the freight industry, for light but bulky parcels. This calculation compares the actual weight of the parcel to its volumetric weight (determined by the volume occupied) and uses the higher of the two for billing the shipment. This method ensures fair pricing that accounts for the space actually occupied in transport means.

The dimensions of parcels accepted by EMPS vary depending on the service and transport mode used. For standard shipments, the carrier generally accepts medium-sized parcels suited to e-commerce flows. Precise limits may differ depending on special lines and distribution partners involved in routing. It is recommended to verify specific restrictions with EMPS before shipping large parcels.

• Maximum weight: Variable depending on service, generally up to 30 kg for standard shipments and potentially more for dedicated freight services
• Maximum dimensions: Limits depend on chosen service and constraints of partner carriers for final distribution
• Volumetric weight: Calculated according to standard formula (Length x Width x Height / conversion factor) and compared to actual weight to determine billable weight
• Restrictions: Certain items are prohibited or subject to special conditions (dangerous materials, regulated products, exceptionally valuable items)

EMPS rates also vary depending on destination and routing mode. Shipments to major markets like the United States or Europe generally benefit from more competitive rates thanks to large volumes handled on these corridors. Less frequent or more distant destinations may incur additional costs related to specific logistics required. Customs duties and import taxes, when applicable, are generally the recipient's responsibility and are added to transport cost.

Optional services can supplement the basic shipment and influence the final rate. Transport insurance covers the contents' value in case of loss or damage. Advanced tracking provides more frequent notifications on shipment progress. Delivery confirmation by signature guarantees the parcel is hand-delivered to the recipient. These additional options represent extra cost but provide increased security for valuable shipments.

To obtain a precise quote, EMPS provides a calculation tool on its website to estimate shipment cost based on its characteristics. The company's customer service can also provide personalized quotes for professional shippers or large volumes. This customized approach allows pricing to be adapted to each client's specific needs while maintaining cost transparency.

What are EMPS's delivery options?

EMPS offers different delivery options designed to adapt to the preferences and constraints of final recipients. These distribution methods vary depending on destination countries and the capabilities of local partners ensuring last-mile delivery. The objective is to offer maximum flexibility to guarantee that each parcel reaches its recipient in the best possible conditions.

Home delivery is the standard option for most EMPS shipments. The parcel is routed directly to the address indicated by the shipper and handed to the recipient or a person present there. This method is perfect for consumers who can receive their parcels during the delivery driver's hours. Home distribution generally takes place Monday through Friday, or even Saturday depending on countries and local carriers.

If the recipient is absent during the first delivery attempt, several alternative solutions are offered depending on country and distribution partner. The parcel can be left at a nearby pickup point, such as a post office, local carrier agency, or partner business. Certain services also allow deposit in automatic lockers accessible 24 hours a day, offering great flexibility to busy recipients.

• Home delivery: Standard distribution to recipient's address, with hand-delivery or to a third party present
• Pickup points: Possibility to collect parcel at a relay point, post office, or local carrier agency depending on countries
• Automatic lockers: Deposit in secure lockers accessible at all times for recipients wishing to collect their parcel at their convenience
• Rescheduling: Options to modify delivery date or address if recipient is unavailable

Notifications are an important element of EMPS's service to keep recipients informed of delivery progress. At each key stage of the journey, the tracking system is updated and alerts can be sent by email or SMS. These communications allow the recipient to anticipate parcel arrival and organize to receive it. Tracking information generally includes scans at various sorting centers, customs clearance, and handoff to the final delivery driver.

For e-commerce professionals, EMPS has developed integration solutions facilitating shipment management. The company offers API connections allowing automation of label generation, sharing tracking information, and communication with final customers. These tools integrate with major online sales platforms and significantly simplify logistics operations for sellers shipping from China.

Available delivery options largely depend on the local carrier ensuring final distribution in each country. In the United States, for example, parcels transiting through USPS benefit from American Postal Service services, potentially including deposit in mailboxes or post offices. In Europe, partnerships with DHL or national postal operators determine the delivery methods offered to recipients.

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

Despite the precautions taken by EMPS and its partners, a parcel may experience extended delay, be damaged during transport, or in the rarest cases, be declared lost. Facing these situations, it is important to know the steps to take and available remedies to obtain a satisfactory solution. EMPS has established procedures to handle claims and support its customers facing these difficulties.

The first step in case of a problem is to carefully verify the shipment's tracking information. International parcels may sometimes experience periods without tracking status updates, particularly during maritime transit or customs clearance. These silent phases are normal and do not necessarily mean the parcel is lost. It is recommended to wait at least one to two weeks without new updates for international shipments before worrying.

If tracking no longer progresses after an abnormally long period, you should contact EMPS customer service to open an investigation. The company recommends waiting more than one week without updates for domestic shipments, and more than two weeks for international shipments, before reporting a problem. Similarly, if the estimated delivery date is far exceeded without signs of progress, a claim can be filed with the carrier.

• Timeframe to report a problem: Wait a minimum of 1 week (domestic shipments) or 2 weeks (international shipments) without tracking update before contacting customer service
• Email contact: Send a detailed message to [email protected] with the tracking number, sender and recipient contact information, and problem description
• Response timeframe: EMPS undertakes to respond to requests within 48 business hours
• Customer service hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Beijing time)
• Phone numbers: 0755-36620359 or 0755-27824112 for support in China

In case of a damaged parcel upon receipt, it is crucial to document the package's condition before opening it completely. Take photos of the outer packaging showing visible damage, then of the contents once opened. Note reservations on the delivery slip if possible, detailing observed damage. These pieces of evidence will be essential to support your claim and facilitate the compensation process.

For parcels ordered from online sellers (AliExpress, eBay, etc.), recipients generally have additional protections through the purchasing platform. It is advisable to check buyer protection deadlines and open a dispute on the platform if necessary, in parallel with the claim filed with EMPS. This dual approach maximizes chances of obtaining a solution, whether a refund or product replacement.

Transport insurance, when subscribed at the time of shipment, covers the declared contents' value in case of proven loss or damage. Coverage conditions and compensation amounts vary depending on chosen plans. Without specific insurance, carriers generally apply flat-rate compensation schedules based on parcel weight, which may prove insufficient for valuable merchandise. It is therefore recommended to subscribe appropriate insurance for important shipments.

Does EMPS handle international shipments and customs procedures?

International parcel transport constitutes EMPS's core business since its origins. The company has specialized in cross-border shipments from China to the rest of the world, developing in-depth expertise in managing international logistics flows. This specialization implies mastery of customs regulations and import-export procedures applicable in the different served countries.

EMPS has a dedicated unit for customs procedures, considered a crucial step for international shipments. The specialists in this team ensure compliance with import and export regulations in each country traversed by parcels. They prepare and submit necessary documentation, ensure declaration compliance, and communicate with customs authorities to facilitate passage at border checkpoints.

One of the particularities of certain EMPS services is the "dual customs clearance" concept offered particularly on the USPS special line to the United States. This system provides that export formalities from China and import formalities in the destination country are handled in advance by EMPS and its partners. This anticipatory handling allows significantly accelerating transit by avoiding blockages and delays usually linked to customs checks.

• Required documentation: Customs declaration (CN22 or CN23), commercial invoice detailing contents and value, specific certificates depending on merchandise nature
• Value declaration: Obligation to precisely declare contents' nature and value to allow calculation of any duties and taxes
• Duties and taxes: Customs fees and import VAT are generally the recipient's responsibility and may be collected upon delivery
• Customs clearance timeframes: Variable depending on countries and merchandise nature, ranging from several hours to several days
• Regulated merchandise: Certain products are subject to restrictions or prohibitions depending on countries (food, cosmetics, electronics, etc.)

During customs clearance, the parcel may be held for inspection by destination country authorities. During this period, tracking information may not be updated for several days or even weeks in some cases. This situation is normal for international shipments and should not be confused with parcel loss. Customs officers verify the compliance of declared contents and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Customs duties and import taxes applicable vary considerably depending on countries, merchandise nature, and declared value. In most cases, these fees are the recipient's responsibility who must pay them before collecting their parcel. Some countries apply customs exemptions allowing low-value shipments to be duty-free, while others systematically tax all imported parcels. It is advisable to research the destination country's regulations before making a shipment.

EMPS assists its customers in understanding customs requirements specific to each destination. The company provides advice on documentation to prepare and information to declare to facilitate customs clearance. This expertise helps reduce risks of blockage or delay related to errors in administrative procedures. For regular shipments to the same destination, EMPS can propose optimized solutions taking into account local particularities.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track an EMPS parcel online, different statuses may appear to inform you of your shipment's progress. These indications help you understand where your parcel is in the logistics chain and at what stage of the delivery process it is. Here are the main statuses used by EMPS and their meaning: