Fastway tracking

What is Fastway?

Fastway Couriers, also known as Fastway Worldwide Express, is an international courier and parcel delivery company founded in 1983 in Napier, New Zealand, by entrepreneur Bill McGowan. This company was created to meet a crucial market need: to provide affordable, reliable and accessible delivery services to both businesses and individuals. Bill McGowan's innovative concept was based on a simplified pricing structure, without complex calculation formulas or multiple weight brackets, revolutionizing the traditional approach in the messaging sector.

Fastway's history truly began in April 1983 with the idea of operating an economical collection and delivery service between the cities of Napier and Hastings, in the Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand. Bill McGowan chose this territory as an experimental laboratory due to the relatively short distance between these two twin cities and the rapid growth of Havelock North, also included in the delivery circuit. At the time, the transport sector was extremely regulated, forcing the founder to purchase an existing company with the necessary transport licenses to launch his business.

Fastway's initial success in New Zealand led to rapid international expansion. In 1984, just one year after its creation, Bill McGowan introduced the franchise model to the transport sector, a world first that would define the company's identity for the following decades. This innovation earned him the title of "Entrepreneur of the Year in New Zealand" in 1986, generating significant national media coverage and accelerating the company's growth. Ten years after its debut, Fastway had become the second largest courier company in New Zealand, with complete geographic coverage of the territory.

• Date of creation: 1983, in Napier, New Zealand, under the leadership of Bill McGowan
• Founder: Bill McGowan, a New Zealand entrepreneur internationally recognized in the franchising sector
• Establishment in Ireland: 2002, with development of a network covering the entire island
• Irish headquarters: Dublin, Ireland, at 2 Ballymount Cross Business Park
• Annual volume: More than 25 million parcels processed each year in Ireland
• Number of customers: More than 15,000 professional and individual customers in Ireland
• Franchised network: More than 450 franchised partners throughout Ireland

Fastway operates according to a structured and proven franchise model, with regional franchises managing local operations. Each regional franchisee supervises parcel collection, sorting, transport and distribution in its geographic area. This network of franchised entities, autonomous yet perfectly coordinated, ensures effective local decision-making while maintaining consistent quality standards across the group. This model enabled Fastway to establish itself in several countries, notably in Australia from 1993, in Ireland in 2002, in South Africa, in the United Kingdom via Northern Ireland, and more recently in India.

In Ireland, Fastway established itself as one of the major players in the courier market. The Irish subsidiary has a dense logistics infrastructure comprising around twenty regional depots, two national sorting centers and a customer service center based in Portarlington. This organization allows for optimal routing of shipments throughout the territory, from Cork to Belfast. It should be noted that in October 2025, the Nuvion group, which includes Fastway Couriers Ireland and Parcel Connect, was placed in receivership, resulting in the cessation of delivery activities in Irish territory.

In which countries does Fastway deliver?

Over the years, Fastway has developed a significant international presence, relying on its franchise model to establish itself in different regions of the world. This geographic expansion has enabled the carrier to offer delivery solutions tailored to the specificities of each market, while maintaining global consistency in service quality. The Fastway network covers several continents, from Oceania to Europe through Africa and Asia.

Regarding Ireland, Fastway ensures complete coverage of the island, including the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This geographic particularity allows the carrier to offer smooth links between the two jurisdictions, without customs complexity following the post-Brexit agreements that keep Northern Ireland in the European customs union for merchandise exchanges. Cross-border deliveries between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland require no customs declaration, no border controls and incur no additional customs fees.

• New Zealand: Fastway's home market where the brand built its reputation as a reliable carrier with extensive national coverage. New Zealand operations were acquired by Aramex in 2016 and progressively rebranded.
• Australia: Fastway developed a vast franchise network there from 1993, ensuring efficient collection and delivery service across the continent. Like New Zealand, Australian operations were integrated into Aramex in 2016.
• Ireland: Present since 2002, Fastway is solidly established across the entire island, serving both urban and rural areas through its network of more than 450 franchisees.
• United Kingdom (Northern Ireland): Fastway operates in Northern Ireland, enabling complete coverage of the island of Ireland and facilitating exchanges with the British market.
• South Africa: The company plays an important role in the delivery sector in South Africa, with operations structured to meet the diverse needs of local shippers.
• India: Fastway launched on the Indian market via a system of regional franchises to support the growth of local e-commerce.

For international shipments from Ireland, Fastway offers services to many European and worldwide destinations. Deliveries to mainland United Kingdom (Great Britain) are particularly well developed, with average delivery times of 3 to 5 working days. The carrier relies on partnerships with local operators in destination countries to ensure final distribution of parcels, thus guaranteeing extensive coverage even in areas not directly covered by the Fastway network.

Fastway's international expansion strategy is based on establishing master franchises in each country, these being responsible for developing the local network of franchisees. This decentralized approach allows adaptation to the particularities of each market while benefiting from the expertise and quality standards developed by the group. However, it is important to note that following the acquisition of Australian and New Zealand operations by Aramex and the placement of Irish operations in receivership in 2025, the operational scope of the Fastway brand has evolved considerably.

What are Fastway's delivery services and timeframes?

Fastway offers a diverse range of shipping services designed to meet the different needs of shippers, whether urgent shipments requiring fast delivery or less time-sensitive parcels that can benefit from more economical rates. The carrier strives to offer flexible solutions suited to both occasional individuals and businesses shipping large volumes on a regular basis. This versatility is one of Fastway's major assets in the Irish messaging market.

For domestic deliveries in Ireland, Fastway generally guarantees fast routing with particularly competitive timeframes. The majority of national parcels are delivered within 1 to 2 working days on average, placing the carrier among the most efficient players in the Irish market. This speed is made possible by the dense logistics infrastructure of the network, comprising 24 sites including 20 regional depots, 2 national sorting centers and a customer service center, allowing optimal coverage of the territory.

• Next Day Delivery: Premium express service allowing shipment in 24 hours for urgent shipments. Parcels are collected and routed to the delivery area overnight for distribution the following working day. This service is particularly suited to the needs of e-commerce companies and time-sensitive professional shipments.
• Standard Delivery: Economical shipping option ensuring reliable delivery of non-urgent parcels in approximately 2 to 3 working days. This service offers excellent value for money for shippers whose shipments have no particular urgency, while maintaining a high level of reliability.
• Priority Delivery: Premium service offering accelerated delivery times and increased visibility of shipment tracking. This option includes detailed real-time tracking and guarantees delivery within a contractually defined timeframe, with enhanced traceability at each stage of the parcel's journey.

Regarding international shipments, delivery times vary depending on the destination and service chosen. Deliveries to the United Kingdom (Great Britain) typically take 3 to 5 working days, while shipments to other European destinations may require slightly longer timeframes depending on geographic distance and applicable customs procedures. Fastway also offers economical solutions for less urgent international shipments, allowing shippers to benefit from reduced rates in exchange for longer delivery times.

It is important to note that Fastway does not offer weekend delivery service. The carrier's operations are limited to working days, Monday to Friday. Collections and deliveries are not performed on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays. Customer service hours are 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Monday to Thursday, and 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Friday. This limitation to working days is in line with industry practices in the freight and messaging sector in Ireland.

All delivery timeframes communicated by Fastway remain indicative estimates, subject to variation depending on unforeseen circumstances. Adverse weather conditions, periods of high business activity such as year-end holidays, labor disputes or logistical uncertainties can occasionally impact delivery times. Fastway is nonetheless committed to informing customers of significant disruptions affecting the delivery network.

What are Fastway's rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

Fastway's pricing policy is based on the principle of transparency and simplicity, true to the original vision of its founder Bill McGowan. The carrier has developed a competitive price structure taking into account several parameters while avoiding complex calculation formulas that characterize some competitors. This approach allows customers to easily estimate the cost of their shipments and compare available options without having to perform laborious calculations.

The cost of a shipment with Fastway depends mainly on the weight and dimensions of the parcel, the delivery address and the type of service chosen. The carrier applies the volumetric weight principle, which means that pricing is based on whichever is higher between the actual weight of the parcel and its calculated volumetric weight. This method ensures fair billing taking into account the space occupied by the parcel in transport vehicles, regardless of its actual weight.

• Maximum weight authorized: 30 kg for parcels collected at home, office or any other collection point not affiliated with the relay network. For parcels deposited in a Parcel Connect store, the maximum weight is limited to 20 kg.
• Maximum length: 2 meters for domestic shipments in Ireland collected by courier. For shipments to the United Kingdom or deposited at a Parcel Connect point, the maximum length is 1.5 meters.
• Combined circumference: The sum of the length, width and height of the parcel must not exceed 2.5 meters (250 cm).
• Total size: The combined dimensions of the parcel (length + width + height) must remain under 3 meters for domestic shipments.

The calculation of volumetric weight at Fastway is performed according to the following formula: height × width × length × 250, with dimensions expressed in meters. If the volumetric weight thus calculated exceeds the actual weight of the parcel, it is the volumetric weight that will be used to determine the applicable rate. This calculation method is standard in the messaging sector and allows for fair billing of bulky yet light parcels that occupy disproportionate space relative to their weight.

In terms of indicative pricing, Fastway services via partner platforms such as Parcel2Go were available starting from 6.99 euros excluding VAT for the most economical domestic shipments. Rates then vary depending on the service chosen (standard, express, priority), the weight and dimensions of the parcel, as well as the destination. Professional customers shipping regular volumes can negotiate preferential pricing conditions with their local franchisee or Fastway's commercial department.

Certain restrictions apply regarding the type of goods that can be shipped via the Fastway network. Prohibited items include in particular dangerous materials, flammable products, illicit substances, weapons, exceptionally valuable items not insured, perishable goods requiring a cold chain, and certain regulated products. Shippers are invited to consult the general conditions of transport to ensure that their shipments comply with applicable restrictions.

What are Fastway's delivery options?

Fastway has developed a diverse palette of delivery options to meet the varied expectations of Irish recipients. The carrier has particularly invested in the flexibility of reception modes, recognizing that recipient availability constraints often represent the main obstacle to successful first-time delivery. This customer-centric approach helps improve successful delivery rates while reducing costs associated with multiple delivery attempts.

Home delivery remains the most common option and constitutes the default distribution method for Fastway shipments. The courier presents himself at the address provided by the shipper during standard business hours, generally between 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM Monday to Friday. In case of recipient absence, the delivery person can, according to instructions previously communicated and depending on the possibilities of the location, deposit the parcel in a secure location (garden shed, garage, with a neighbor) or leave a delivery attempt notice indicating how to collect the parcel.

• Delivery to Parcel Connect relay point: The Parcel Connect network is Fastway's flagship alternative solution in Ireland. With more than 1,300 collection and drop-off points distributed throughout the territory, this service offers maximum flexibility to recipients. Parcel Connect points are generally located in nearby stores with extended opening hours, allowing you to pick up your parcels outside standard working hours.
• Drop-off at Parcel Connect store: Shippers can also deposit their parcels directly at a Parcel Connect point to avoid waiting for a courier to call at their home. This option is particularly convenient for occasional shipments or for people whose schedules do not allow them to be present during collection.
• Reprogramming of delivery: If the first delivery attempt fails, recipients have the option to reschedule delivery to a later date or request deposit of the parcel at a nearby Parcel Connect point to their home or workplace.
• Notifications and real-time tracking: Fastway offers a notification system allowing recipients to be informed of the progress of their delivery. These email or SMS alerts indicate the main stages of the parcel's journey and alert the recipient to the imminence of delivery.

The Parcel Connect network deserves particular attention as it represents one of Fastway's distinctive assets in the Irish market. This service was developed to respond to the evolution of consumption patterns linked to the growth of e-commerce. Consumers increasingly making online purchases need flexible solutions to receive their parcels without being forced to remain at home during delivery hours. Parcel Connect points, often located in Applegreen service stations, mini-marts, tobacconists or other nearby stores, offer this flexibility by allowing parcel retrieval according to recipient availability.

A notable partnership was concluded with Applegreen, one of the main service station operators in Ireland, allowing consumers to deposit or collect their parcels at numerous stations distributed throughout the territory. This partnership with recognized retailers contributes to the visibility of the service and facilitates user access to the relay point network. Many major e-commerce players such as ASOS, Boohoo, Life Style Sports, Oxendales, Very and Zalando have integrated Parcel Connect as a delivery option for their Irish customers.

For professional shippers, Fastway also offers scheduled collection services allowing the organization of regular pickups at fixed times. This option is particularly appreciated by online sales companies that ship a significant volume of parcels daily and wish to optimize their logistics organization. Integration with major e-commerce platforms also allows for automation of shipping label generation and transmission of tracking information to end customers.

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

The management of delivery incidents is a crucial aspect of customer relations in the messaging sector. Fastway has established structured procedures to handle complaints related to lost, damaged or significantly delayed parcels. These procedures aim to provide a quick and fair response to customers facing these unfortunate situations, while respecting the legal and contractual obligations of the carrier.

If you have a problem with a Fastway parcel, the first step is to contact the appropriate service as soon as possible. For direct Fastway customers (who have organized and paid for the shipment themselves), contact can be made with the local depot via the dedicated phone number or email address provided when opening a customer account. It is also possible to use the "Support" button on the Fastway website to initiate an online assistance request. For recipients who have received a parcel shipped by a third party (online merchant, for example), it is recommended to contact the seller first, who will handle the claim with Fastway.

• Filing period for damaged parcel: Claims for damaged parcels must be filed within 48 hours of delivery. This relatively short timeframe is designed to allow establishing a causal link between the damage observed and transport, before any further handling of the parcel by the recipient.
• Definition of significant delay: A delay is considered significant and opens the right to claim when it exceeds 7 to 10 calendar days the timeframe provided by the contracted service level.
• Claim processing timeframe: Fastway strives to process all claims within 21 working days, the maximum timeframe being set at 30 calendar days in accordance with the company's complaint and remedy procedures.
• Documents to provide: The claim form provided by Fastway must be completed with information relating to the shipment (tracking number, shipment date, nature of contents) and accompanied by supporting documentation of the value of lost or damaged items (purchase invoices, repair quotes).

Regarding compensation, Fastway offers limited liability coverage included in the basic price of shipping. This coverage allows you to claim the net cost of purchase or repair of lost or damaged items, up to a maximum of 400 euros for domestic shipments in Ireland or 250 British pounds for shipments to the United Kingdom. For international shipments to other destinations, limited liability coverage is set at 50 British pounds. It is important to note that this coverage does not cover VAT or any loss of income or lost profits resulting from the incident.

Customers wishing to benefit from greater protection can take out supplemental insurance when shipping. This option is particularly recommended for shipments of significant value exceeding basic coverage limits. Supplemental insurance allows for compensation corresponding to the actual declared value of items, provided you can justify this value with appropriate documentation in case of loss.

Certain categories of items are excluded from Fastway's insurance coverage, in particular cash and securities, jewelry and precious metals, works of art, antiques, perishable goods, live animals, irreplaceable documents and items whose packaging is insufficient for the type of transport. Customers shipping these categories of items assume full responsibility in case of loss or damage.

Does Fastway handle international shipments and customs formalities?

Fastway offers international shipping services allowing Irish customers to send parcels to many destinations around the world. The carrier has developed particular expertise in managing cross-border flows, notably in the post-Brexit context which introduced new documentary and customs requirements for exchanges with Great Britain. This expertise in international trade is a significant asset for export companies and individuals wishing to ship parcels abroad.

For exchanges between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, the situation is particularly favorable. Thanks to the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland, goods circulating between these two territories are not subject to any customs formalities. There are no border controls, no customs declarations to perform and no customs duties to pay. This fluidity of exchanges across the entire island of Ireland allows shippers to treat shipments to Northern Ireland exactly like domestic shipments, without additional administrative complexity.

• EORI number: Since January 1, 2021, companies shipping goods to, from or via Great Britain must have an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification). This number serves as an identifier in all customs procedures when exchanging information with competent authorities. No EORI number is required for exchanges between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
• Required shipping documents: For international shipments requiring customs clearance, Fastway requires several essential pieces of information: the country of origin of the goods (place of manufacture or production), the reason for export, a clear and detailed description of items including their use and composition, as well as the declared value of the goods.
• AEO Status: Fastway holds the status of Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) level C, an internationally recognized certification that attests to the company's reliability in terms of customs compliance. This status allows you to benefit from simplified and expedited customs procedures.
• Customs partnership: Fastway has established a partnership with Manifests Ireland, enabling it to become one of Ireland's largest customs brokers. This collaboration ensures expert management of customs clearance formalities for customer imports and exports.

For shipments to Great Britain or other non-European Union countries, Fastway handles customs formalities as part of its export services. The carrier has temporary storage facilities in its main sorting center in Portlaoise as well as in its Dublin warehouse, allowing parcels to be kept pending payment of applicable duties and taxes by the recipient or shipper according to agreed terms.

Delivery times for international shipments can be impacted by customs clearance procedures. When the customs authorities of the destination country require additional information or documents to authorize entry of goods, the parcel may be held while the situation is regularized. To avoid these delays, Fastway recommends that shippers provide complete and accurate documentation from the start, ensuring that shipped items comply with regulations in the destination country.

Any customs duties and import taxes potentially due in the destination country are generally the responsibility of the recipient, unless otherwise agreed between the shipper and Fastway for payment by the shipper (shipment on DDP - Delivered Duty Paid). The recipient will be informed by local customs authorities or by the partner carrier ensuring final delivery of the amount to be paid before being able to take possession of the parcel. These fees depend on the nature of the goods, their declared value and the rates of duties and taxes applicable in the destination country.

Understanding tracking statuses

When tracking a Fastway parcel online, different statuses may appear to inform you of your shipment's progress through the carrier's logistics network. These statuses are updated at each key stage thanks to the portable scanners used by couriers and sorting center operators. Understanding the meaning of these statuses allows you to anticipate the arrival of your parcel and identify any potential blockages requiring action on your part: