Spring Global tracking

What is Spring Global?

Spring Global Delivery Solutions, commonly called Spring Global or Spring GDS, is an international carrier specializing in the shipment of mail and parcels worldwide. A wholly-owned subsidiary of the Dutch postal group PostNL since 2013, this company has established itself as a major player in cross-border logistics, particularly in the e-commerce sector. With its headquarters located in The Hague in the Netherlands, Spring Global has developed recognized expertise in international parcel distribution, customs clearance, and returns management for e-commerce businesses around the world.

Spring Global's history dates back to 2001, the year of its creation as a joint venture bringing together three major postal operators: the Dutch postal service TPG (which became PostNL), Royal Mail in the United Kingdom, and Singapore Post. This strategic alliance allowed the company, then known as Spring Global Mail, to quickly establish a solid international network and position itself among the leading independent cross-border courier service providers. TPG initially held 51% of this joint venture, demonstrating Dutch ambitions to develop a global presence in the postal sector.

The evolution of ownership has marked important milestones in Spring Global's history. In 2009, Singapore Post withdrew from the joint venture, and in 2013, PostNL acquired all shares of the company, making Spring Global a wholly-owned subsidiary of the group. This complete integration strengthened synergies between the two entities and allowed Spring Global to fully benefit from its sole shareholder's infrastructure and expertise.

• Date of creation: 2001, as a joint venture between TPG (PostNL), Royal Mail, and Singapore Post
• Parent company: PostNL Group, the leading postal operator in the Netherlands, listed on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange (Euronext Amsterdam)
• Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands
• Global presence: 13 offices spread across 3 continents, covering 190 countries
• Daily volume: More than one million parcels per day and approximately 7 million postal shipments daily
• Logistics partners: More than 230 international logistics partners

In 2015, the company underwent a significant rebranding by dropping the name Spring Global Mail in favor of Spring Global Delivery Solutions. This evolution reflected the expansion of its activities beyond traditional mail into comprehensive parcel distribution solutions, responding to the growth of global e-commerce. Today, Spring Global positions itself as a privileged logistics partner for e-commerce actors wishing to develop their international sales, offering flexible delivery solutions, detailed shipment tracking, and simplified customs management.

Spring Global's market positioning is based on several distinctive advantages. As a PostNL subsidiary, the company benefits from preferential rates and advantageous transit times, particularly within the Benelux where it has privileged access to the region's largest distribution network. Furthermore, Spring Global is PostNL's exclusive commercial agent outside the Benelux and Royal Mail's privileged commercial representative outside the United Kingdom, giving it a unique strategic position for shipments to and from these territories.

Which countries does Spring Global deliver to?

Spring Global has a particularly extensive geographic coverage, the result of its logistics partner network and local agents spread across the globe. The carrier serves approximately 190 countries and territories, making it one of the most comprehensive operators in terms of international delivery. This global presence enables e-commerce businesses to reach a diverse customer base, from mature European markets to emerging economies in Asia and Latin America.

Spring Global's presence is structured around several strategically important geographic zones. In Europe, the company benefits from a particularly strong presence thanks to its membership in the PostNL group. The Benelux is the core of its network, with direct access to PostNL's logistics infrastructure covering all of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. These territories represent booming e-commerce markets, particularly attractive for international online sellers.

Beyond the Benelux, Spring Global ensures deliveries throughout the European Union and beyond. The main European markets served include the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. The historical partnership with Royal Mail allows Spring Global to offer optimized services to the United Kingdom, including 24 and 48-hour delivery options for British destinations.

• Benelux: Belgium, Netherlands, and Luxembourg with access to the PostNL network
• Western Europe: France, Germany, United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, and other EU countries
• North America: United States, Canada, and Mexico
• Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, Singapore, Hong Kong, and Australia
• South America: Brazil, Argentina, and other countries on the continent
• Africa and Middle East: South Africa, United Arab Emirates, and many other destinations

Spring Global has significantly strengthened its presence in Asia in recent years. In 2018, the company established a transshipment hub in Singapore, in the free trade zone of Changi Airport, one of the world's most connected airports. In 2021, this Asian expansion continued with the opening of a new operational hub in Hong Kong. These facilities allow optimization of logistics flows between Asia and Europe, meeting the growing demand from Asian e-commerce businesses wishing to ship to the European market.

For shipments to the United States, Spring Global offers solutions adapted to the specifics of the American market. The company works in partnership with local carriers to ensure last-mile delivery, guaranteeing a smooth experience for American recipients. Shipments to the United States are particularly suited for parcels with a maximum weight of 20 kg and a maximum value of 800 US dollars, benefiting from the high de minimis threshold that allows avoiding customs duties on small shipments.

It should be noted that certain geographic restrictions may apply depending on the type of service chosen and the nature of the goods shipped. The most remote destinations or countries subject to international embargoes may present limitations. Spring Global provides its customers with an online tool to check service availability to each destination and obtain precise information on applicable timeframes and conditions.

What are Spring Global's delivery services and timeframes?

Spring Global offers a diverse range of shipping services designed to meet the varied needs of e-commerce businesses and their customers. The offering is structured around two main categories: services for small parcels and services for larger shipments, each including several options suited to different levels of urgency and tracking.

The Small Parcel offering constitutes the historical core of Spring Global's services. Intended for e-commerce businesses that regularly ship lightweight items to Europe and the rest of the world, this range is designed for shipments up to 2 kg. Three options are offered within this category: Packet for basic economical shipments, Packet Tracked for shipments with online tracking, and Packet Plus which combines tracking and additional services for maximum visibility throughout the shipment's journey.

For larger goods, the International Parcel service allows the shipment of parcels up to 30 kg depending on destinations. This offering comes in two main variants: Spring Parcel, a service with complete tracking suited to most needs, and Spring Express, a fast messenger service for urgent shipments requiring accelerated handling. Transit times vary depending on the destination and the level of service chosen.

• Tracked: Delivery of parcels up to 20 kg with complete online tracking, offering up to nine status updates from the collection point to delivery
• Signature: Delivery of parcels up to 20 kg with online tracking, mandatory signature upon receipt, and proof of delivery for enhanced security
• Collect: Delivery to a parcel locker, post office, or automated locker, allowing the recipient to pick up their parcel at their convenience
• Extra@Home: Service dedicated to large parcels within the Benelux, with delivery possible at the door or inside the home

Delivery times vary considerably depending on the destination and the type of service selected. For shipments within Europe, average delivery times generally range from 3 to 10 business days. Deliveries to the Benelux benefit from the shortest timeframes thanks to integration with the PostNL network. For intercontinental destinations such as the United States, Asia, or Australia, standard delivery times can vary from 7 to 20 business days depending on the logistics routes used and any customs clearance procedures.

Express services significantly reduce these timeframes for urgent shipments. The partnership with Royal Mail notably offers 24 and 48-hour delivery options for United Kingdom destinations. For other European markets, accelerated services allow deliveries in 2 to 5 business days. It is important to note that these timeframes are indicative and may be affected by external factors such as customs procedures, weather conditions, or periods of high activity such as year-end holidays.

Spring Global also provides professional customers with customized solutions, adapted to shipment volumes and the specific requirements of each e-commerce activity. These personalized offerings can include regular pickups, volume-based discounts, and additional services such as customs document preparation or advanced returns management. A dedicated advisor assists e-commerce businesses in defining the solution best suited to their needs.

What are Spring Global's rates and maximum dimensions accepted?

Spring Global's pricing policy is characterized by a personalized approach, with prices calculated based on multiple parameters specific to each shipment. Unlike standardized pricing grids used by some carriers, Spring Global favors customized quotes to optimize costs based on each customer's shipment profile. This approach proves particularly advantageous for regular e-commerce businesses that can negotiate preferential terms.

The factors determining the cost of a shipment with Spring Global are numerous. The weight and dimensions of the parcel naturally constitute the first criteria, but other elements come into play: the country of origin and destination, the frequency of pickups, the total volume of shipments, the level of service chosen (standard, tracked, signature), as well as any additional options such as insurance or customs management. Spring Global emphasizes transparent pricing, with no hidden fees for additional customs processing.

A notable advantage of Spring Global lies in its symmetric pricing policy for returns. The company offers the same pricing for outbound shipments and returns, which simplifies financial management for e-commerce businesses and provides welcome predictability in calculating logistics costs. This approach meets the expectations of modern consumers who expect to easily return their online purchases.

• Small Parcel: Up to 2 kg, ideal for lightweight items such as clothing, accessories, or small objects
• Tracked Service: Up to 20 kg with complete shipment tracking
• Signature Service: Up to 20 kg with tracking and signed proof of delivery
• International Parcel: Up to 30 kg depending on destination country, for larger shipments
• Shipments to the United States: Maximum weight of 20 kg and recommended maximum value of 800 dollars (approximately 680 euros)

Regarding dimensions, Spring Global adapts to the various formats of e-commerce parcels. The exact specifications depend on the service chosen and the partner carrier ensuring last-mile delivery in the destination country. In general, dimensions are calculated using the volumetric weight principle, which takes into account both the actual weight and the size of the parcel. For shipments of unusual format or exceeding standard limits, it is recommended to contact Spring Global's customer service directly to obtain an adapted solution.

Certain restrictions apply to the types of goods that can be shipped via Spring Global. Dangerous goods, perishable foodstuffs, and products containing lithium batteries are subject to limitations or prohibitions depending on destinations. These restrictions aim to ensure the safety of shipments and compliance with international transport regulations. A detailed list of prohibited or conditional items is available on Spring Global's official website.

To obtain an accurate quote, Spring Global provides e-commerce businesses with an online calculator to estimate shipment costs based on parcel characteristics and destination. Customer service is also available to assist customers in evaluating their needs and proposing the most suitable solutions for their business. For companies carrying out large volumes of shipments, commercial negotiations generally allow obtaining preferential rates.

What are Spring Global's delivery options?

Spring Global has developed a comprehensive range of delivery options designed to meet the diverse expectations of modern consumers. This flexibility is a major advantage for e-commerce businesses concerned with providing an optimal customer experience, as the choice of delivery method has become an important decision criterion in the online shopping journey.

Home delivery remains the most requested option and Spring Global offers several variants to adapt to each recipient's preferences. The standard service provides delivery to the indicated address with complete tracking featuring up to nine status updates, from collection to final delivery. For recipients absent during the first delivery attempt, various rescheduling or redirection options are generally available depending on the destination country and the local partner carrier.

Signature service constitutes a preferred option for high-value shipments or those requiring formal proof of receipt. In this case, the recipient or an authorized person must sign upon parcel delivery, generating an electronically accessible proof of delivery. This option meets the security requirements of e-commerce businesses selling valuable products and provides complete traceability in case of dispute.

• Standard home delivery: Deposit at the indicated address with complete tracking, possibility of safe place delivery without signature depending on countries
• Signed delivery: Hand-to-hand delivery with mandatory signature and electronic proof of delivery
• Parcel locker delivery: Pickup at a partner retail location during extended hours
• Post office delivery: Made available at the post office closest to the recipient
• Automated locker delivery: Deposit in a secure locker accessible 24/7 with unique code
• Extra@Home (Benelux): Delivery of large parcels with handling at the door or inside the home

The Collect service represents an appreciated alternative for consumers seeking flexibility and autonomy. Thanks to a vast network of local partners in each destination country, Spring Global allows the recipient to pick up their parcel at a parcel locker, post office, or automated locker at their convenience. This option eliminates constraints related to being home during delivery and often offers extended opening hours, including evenings and weekends in some cases.

One of Spring Global's distinctive advantages lies in the possibility offered to the recipient to choose their pickup location during the ordering process. E-commerce businesses integrating Spring Global services can offer their customers the option to select their preferred collection point directly at checkout, thereby improving the shopping experience and reducing delivery failures. This functionality is based on mapping available pickup points in each geographic area.

For Benelux destinations, the Extra@Home service meets the specific needs of large or heavy parcels requiring special handling. This premium service includes delivery to the home entrance or even inside according to chosen options, sparing the recipient from having to carry heavy loads. This option proves particularly suited for e-commerce businesses selling household appliances, furniture, or other bulky items.

Spring Global also emphasizes notifications and communication with recipients throughout the delivery journey. Email or SMS alerts inform the customer of shipment progress, estimated delivery date, and any actions required on their part. This transparency contributes to a positive customer experience and reduces inquiries to e-commerce businesses' customer service.

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

Loss or damage to a parcel is a concerning situation for both the sender and the recipient. Spring Global has established structured procedures to handle these incidents and guide its customers toward a satisfactory resolution. Understanding the steps to follow and applicable timeframes allows for effective action and maximizes the chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.

In case of a supposedly lost parcel, it is first advisable to carefully check the online tracking history. A parcel that appears stuck for several days is not necessarily lost: carriers generally conduct an internal search for 10 to 21 days according to their procedures before officially declaring a shipment as missing. During this period, the parcel may have been held for various reasons (incomplete address, customs procedures, transfer issues between partners) and resume its journey after resolution of the hold.

After a reasonable period without tracking updates, it becomes necessary to initiate a formal claim. To do so, Spring Global provides a contact form on its official website, accessible at spring-gds.com. It is essential to provide all relevant information when making this request: tracking number, detailed description of contents, declared value, shipping circumstances, and any documents supporting the claim (invoice, proof of purchase, photographs of the parcel before shipping).

• Tracking verification: Check the complete movement history of the parcel on the Spring Global website or via a universal tracking platform
• Recommended waiting period: Wait 10 to 21 business days after the last movement before considering the parcel lost
• Filing a claim: Complete the online form on spring-gds.com with all supporting documents
• Processing timeframe: Claims are generally processed within 7 to 21 business days
• Alternate contact: Possibility of sending mail to Spring Global's headquarters or contacting customer service by phone

For parcels received damaged, the procedure differs slightly and requires prompt action. Upon receipt, if the packaging shows visible signs of deterioration, it is advisable to refuse the parcel and not sign the delivery slip, even if the damage appears minor. If the parcel was accepted and damage is discovered upon opening, it is imperative to immediately document the contents' condition with clear photographs showing the packaging, damage, and shipping label.

Most legislation provides a limited timeframe following delivery to report damage to the carrier. It is therefore recommended to act quickly by contacting Spring Global's customer service upon discovering the problem. The claim must include a detailed description of the damage, photographic evidence, the tracking number, and an estimate of the value of damaged items.

It is important to emphasize that in e-commerce, the carrier's liability is assessed differently depending on whether one is a professional shipper or an individual recipient. In many countries, legislation places responsibility on the professional seller: in case of delivery problems, the recipient can demand reimbursement from the merchant, who then has the right to pursue the carrier or its insurance. E-commerce businesses therefore have an interest in subscribing to appropriate guarantees and understanding Spring Global's compensation conditions.

Compensation in case of loss or damage depends on the terms and conditions of sale and the level of service subscribed. Spring Global offers additional insurance options allowing coverage of the actual value of shipped goods. Without specific insurance, compensation is generally limited to the ceilings provided by international transport conventions, which may prove insufficient for valuable items. It is therefore advisable for e-commerce businesses to assess their coverage needs and subscribe to protections suited to the nature of their shipments.

Does Spring Global handle international shipments and customs procedures?

The management of international shipments and customs procedures is precisely the core business of Spring Global. Since its creation in 2001, the company has specialized in cross-border transport, developing recognized expertise in customs clearance and assisting e-commerce businesses in navigating the complexity of international regulations. This distinctive competence positions Spring Global as a partner of choice for online sellers wishing to develop their export sales.

Spring Global has a dedicated team of customs clearance specialists capable of handling customs procedures in particularly short timeframes. The company highlights customs clearance accomplished within 24 hours thanks to this internal expertise, thus reducing risks of delays and inconvenience for recipients. This responsiveness is based on computer systems connected to customs administrations and in-depth knowledge of regulations specific to each destination country.

The documents required for international shipments vary depending on the value of goods and the destination. For shipments within the European Union, no customs form is necessary thanks to the free movement of goods. However, for deliveries to non-EU countries, specific declarations are required: Form CN22 for shipments with a value of 425 euros or less, and Form CN23 for shipments exceeding this value. Spring Global assists its customers in preparing these documents, ensuring their compliance with regulatory requirements.

• Intra-EU shipments: No customs procedures required, free movement of goods between member states
• Non-EU shipments up to 425 euros: Form CN22 to be attached to the parcel
• Non-EU shipments exceeding 425 euros: Detailed Form CN23 with complete description of contents
• Commodity code: Each product must be associated with a customs tariff code (HS code) appearing on the commercial invoice
• MRN number: Movement Reference Number allowing tracking of the shipment's customs status

Spring Global also offers advanced solutions for VAT management in the context of cross-border sales. The company assists e-commerce businesses in using the Import One Stop Shop (IOSS) window, a mechanism established by the European Union since July 2021 to simplify VAT administration on imports of goods with a value of 150 euros or less. By adhering to IOSS, sellers collect VAT at the time of sale and no longer need to invoice import VAT to recipients, thus simplifying the customer experience and avoiding unwelcome surprises upon delivery.

The handling of customs duties and taxes constitutes a crucial aspect of international shipments. Spring Global offers different management options: either fees are borne by the recipient who pays them upon delivery (DDP method - Delivered Duty Unpaid), or they are included in the sale price and paid by the shipper (DDU method - Delivered Duty Paid). The choice between these options depends on the e-commerce business's commercial strategy and target customer expectations. Many consumers appreciate knowing the total cost in advance, without surprises at delivery.

For exports from the European Union, Spring Global handles required export declarations, using eight digits to identify goods according to the combined nomenclature. Import declarations in the destination country use ten digits instead, with variations according to local regulations. The company handles coordination of these administrative aspects with its local partners, ensuring smooth transition of goods across borders.

It should be noted that certain export and import restrictions may apply depending on countries and the nature of goods. Products subject to export licenses, dual-use goods, or items prohibited in certain countries require particular attention. Spring Global advises its customers on these regulatory aspects and may refuse shipments not compliant with applicable legislation. Prior verification of product and destination eligibility is recommended before any shipment.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track a Spring Global parcel online, different statuses may appear. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: