International Post tracking

What is International Post?

International Post, more commonly referred to by the acronym UPU for Universal Postal Union, represents the intergovernmental organization that structures and coordinates all international postal exchanges worldwide. Unlike traditional carriers, the UPU does not directly ensure the transport of parcels or mail. Its fundamental mission is to establish common rules, standards and procedures enabling the postal operators of each member country to exchange shipments across borders under optimal interoperability conditions.

Founded on October 9, 1874 with the signing of the Treaty of Berne, the Universal Postal Union is the second oldest international organization still in operation, just after the International Telecommunication Union. Originally named the General Postal Union, it was renamed the Universal Postal Union at the Paris Congress in 1878, reflecting the rapid expansion of its network of member countries. This historic institution has managed to adapt continuously to technological developments and changes in international commerce.

The organization's headquarters is established in Berne, the capital of the Swiss Confederation, where it has occupied an emblematic building since its creation. This Swiss location is not by chance, as it was Heinrich von Stephan, director of the postal service of the German Confederation's Northern region, who organized the 1874 international postal conference in this neutral city. Switzerland then welcomed representatives from twenty-two founding countries who laid the foundations of the modern international postal system.

• Date of creation: October 9, 1874, with the signing of the Treaty of Berne by twenty-two founding nations
• Original name: General Postal Union, renamed Universal Postal Union in 1878 at the Paris Congress
• Headquarters: Berne, Switzerland, where the organization has been established since its foundation
• Status: Specialized agency of the United Nations since July 4, 1947
• Member countries: 192 member states, covering virtually all inhabited territories on the planet
• Official languages: French as the official language since the beginning, English added as a working language in 1994

The Universal Postal Union plays the role of standardizer, technical arbitrator and facilitator in the global postal ecosystem. It defines the exchange rules between designated operators of each country, promotes common electronic messaging formats, oversees cooperation with customs administrations and encourages alignment with other players in the transport chain such as airlines and terrestrial operators. Although the day-to-day execution of operations is ensured by national postal services and their logistics partners, it is the UPU that designs processes, guarantees service quality and ensures the security of international exchanges.

Since its integration into the United Nations system in 1947, the UPU has strengthened its role as a forum for international cooperation. With 192 member countries, it today constitutes the main dialogue space between postal sector players, ensuring a truly universal network of products and services at the forefront of progress. This universality represents a major achievement since practically every inhabitant of the planet can send and receive mail thanks to the framework established by this organization.

In which countries does International Post deliver?

The International Post network, as structured by the Universal Postal Union, covers a geographic extent unmatched in the world of transport and logistics. With 192 member countries, the UPU encompasses virtually all territories recognized by the international community. This exceptional coverage allows a postal shipment to be routed from practically any point on the globe to any destination, relying on the designated postal operators of each nation.

The 192 members of the Universal Postal Union include Vatican City as well as 191 of the 193 UN member states. Only Andorra, the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau are not part of the organization. The most recent member is South Sudan, which joined the UPU on October 4, 2011, shortly after its independence. This massive membership testifies to the crucial importance of the international postal network for economic development and exchanges between peoples.

Geographic coverage extends across all continents and includes territories with the most varied geographic and climatic conditions. From the most densely populated metropolises to the most remote regions, the international postal system theoretically guarantees mail and parcel delivery. Of course, delivery times and distribution methods vary considerably depending on local infrastructure and access conditions to different areas.

• Europe: All European countries are members, including micro-states such as Monaco, San Marino, Liechtenstein and Vatican City
• Americas: Complete coverage of the American continent, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego, including the Caribbean
• Asia and Pacific: All Asian and Oceanian nations that are UN members participate in the network
• Africa: All countries on the African continent are represented within the organization
• Middle East: Full coverage of the region, allowing postal exchanges with all countries
• Overseas territories: Dependent territories are generally covered by the postal operator of the affiliated country

For the few territories that are not UPU members, specific arrangements nonetheless allow mail to be routed. Palau, for example, has its international mail handled by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The Sovereign Order of Malta, although not a state in the classical sense, has its own postal service whose stamps are accepted by 57 UPU members. These exceptions demonstrate the flexibility of the system which adapts to particular situations while maintaining worldwide postal connectivity.

The routing of an international shipment is based on a fundamental principle established by the UPU: each national postal operator accepts distribution of mail from other member countries, according to remuneration rules defined collectively. This mechanism of universal cooperation allows a simple stamp purchased in any member country to suffice for routing a letter to its final destination, wherever in the world. This apparent simplicity masks a logistics organization of remarkable complexity, coordinated by UPU standards.

What are the International Post services and delivery times?

International postal services coordinated by the Universal Postal Union come in several distinct categories, each responding to specific needs in terms of speed, tracking and security. This diversification allows senders to choose the option best suited to their time and budget constraints, while benefiting from the reliability of the global postal network.

Mail service constitutes the historic and most widespread service. It includes letters, simple postcards and cards with reply paid, printed matter, books for the blind, merchandise samples, small parcels and phonopost shipments. Approximately 80% of shipments from e-commerce weigh less than two kilograms and transit through this mail service flow, which testifies to its growing importance in the global digital economy.

Parcels represent a distinct category, specifically designed for larger or heavier shipments. This service is systematically subject to customs control and generally offers more complete tracking options. ECOMPRO parcels, developed to meet the needs of e-commerce, also belong to this category and benefit from optimized procedures to accelerate customs clearance.

• Standard mail service: Economical service for documents and small objects, with variable delivery times depending on destinations ranging from a few days to several weeks
• Registered shipments: Service with proof of deposit and delivery, offering increased security and complete tracking of the shipment
• Small parcels: Merchandise shipments weighing up to 2 kilograms, subject to customs control but benefiting from advantageous rates
• Parcels: Service for larger shipments, with tracking and systematic customs control
• EMS (Express Mail Service): Fastest postal express service, with delivery generally within 3 to 7 business days internationally
• Shipments with declared value: Service allowing insurance of the shipment contents for a determined amount

The EMS service, for Express Mail Service, represents the worldwide brand of the postal service with the fastest delivery. Post offices in nearly 200 countries and territories offer this quality service ensuring end-to-end distribution. The EMS Cooperative, created by the UPU in 1998, built an international network of postal express service for documents and merchandise. This worldwide network connects nearly 180 countries and territories, offering a competitive alternative to private express carriers.

Delivery times vary considerably depending on several factors. For the EMS service, delivery generally occurs within 3 to 7 business days for international shipments, although this timeframe may extend depending on the destination country, the efficiency of local postal services and any potential customs delays. Peak activity periods such as year-end holidays may also extend processing times. For standard mail service and ordinary parcels, delivery times may range from a few days for nearby destinations to several weeks for the most remote or difficult to access regions.

EMS parcels benefit from priority handling in the sorting and routing process, which explains their superior speed. This service also includes basic insurance coverage and real-time tracking options, allowing senders and recipients to know the position of their shipment at each stage of the journey. The combination of speed, reliability and traceability makes EMS the preferred choice for urgent or valuable shipments.

What are the rates and maximum dimensions accepted by International Post?

The pricing of international postal shipments within the UPU network is based on a complex remuneration system between postal operators, known as terminal dues. In this international mail routing process, the sending country assumes costs related to collection and transport of the shipment, then reimburses the destination country for fees incurred to ensure distribution service. These remuneration rates are negotiated and revised at the quadrennial Universal Postal Congresses.

For the end consumer, rates vary depending on the national postal operator used, as each postal administration sets its own rate schedules while respecting the framework established by the UPU. The price of an international shipment generally depends on weight, dimensions, destination, service chosen and optional add-ons such as tracking, registered service or declared value. It is therefore recommended to consult directly with your national postal operator to obtain applicable precise rates.

Concerning maximum dimensions and weight allowed, the UPU establishes general standards that national postal operators are free to adapt within certain limits. The UPU standard recommendation sets a weight limit of 30 kilograms for international parcels. This harmonization aims to facilitate processing of shipments in different sorting centers worldwide, while allowing room for adaptation to local infrastructure.

• Small parcels: Maximum weight of 2 kilograms, dimensions adapted to enlarged letter format
• Standard parcels: Maximum weight generally set at 30 kilograms according to UPU recommendations
• Special postal exemption: Humanitarian parcels benefit from an exemption up to 5 kilograms, raised to 10 kilograms for shipments whose contents are indivisible
• EMS shipments: Weight limits vary by country, generally between 20 and 30 kilograms
• Maximum dimensions: Variable depending on operators, but the sum of length + width + height generally does not exceed 200 cm
• Volumetric weight: Concept used for calculating shipping fees, taking into account the space occupied by the parcel in addition to its actual weight

Content restrictions constitute an essential aspect of international postal regulations. According to article 19 of the UPU Convention, certain items are formally prohibited or admitted only under conditions in the flow of international mail. The UPU regularly updates its list of prohibited items in cooperation with its member countries. Dangerous goods, illicit substances, counterfeits and products subject to specific regulations are subject to strict restrictions whose non-compliance can result in seizure of the shipment and legal prosecution.

The remuneration system between postal operators currently distinguishes three product categories, each governed by specific agreements: letters, parcels and shipments of the EMS express mail service. These systems are in constant evolution and are subject to regular revaluations at UPU's quadrennial Universal Postal Congresses. This periodic review allows rates to be adjusted to market developments and actual costs incurred by distribution operators.

What are the International Post delivery options?

The delivery options available under the International Post network largely depend on the services offered by the postal operator of the destination country. The UPU establishes standards and recommendations, but each national postal administration retains the freedom to organize distribution according to its infrastructure and population expectations. This diversity results in a wide range of possibilities for recipients.

Home delivery remains the most common distribution method for international postal shipments. The postal carrier or distribution agent presents themselves at the address indicated on the shipment and delivers the mail or parcel to the recipient or to a person authorized to receive it. For shipments requiring a signature, delivery takes place in person against receipt. In case of recipient absence, procedures vary by country but generally include leaving a delivery attempt notice and holding the shipment.

Pickup points constitute an increasingly widespread alternative to home delivery. Depending on the country, these points may take the form of traditional post offices, partner relay points located at merchant stores, or self-service automated lockers. Many national postal operators have developed dense networks of relay points and automated lockers, sometimes several thousand per country, located in strategic locations such as post offices, shopping centers, train stations and metro stations.

• Home delivery: Classic distribution at the recipient's address, with or without signature depending on shipment type
• Post office pickup: Shipment made available at the nearest postal facility, generally held for 15 days
• Partner relay points: Pickup at authorized merchant stores, often with extended hours compared to post offices
• Automated lockers: 24/7 access to collect parcels using a code received by SMS or email
• Mailbox delivery: Deposit in a mailbox rented by the recipient at the post office
• Secure deposit: In some countries, possibility of leaving the parcel in an agreed location in case of recipient absence

The holding periods for pending shipments vary depending on the chosen pickup method and local regulations. Most postal operators hold parcels for 7 to 15 days at post offices or merchant relay points, while automated lockers generally impose shorter timeframes, 3 to 7 days. After this period, the shipment is returned to the sender in accordance with international postal rules. The recipient may authorize a third party to collect their parcel by completing the required information on the back of the delivery attempt notice and entrusting their identification document and the notice to the designated person.

Delivery rescheduling constitutes an increasingly accessible option thanks to digital tools developed by postal operators. In many countries, the recipient can modify the date, time or place of delivery via an online portal or mobile application upon receiving the notification of imminent arrival. These delivery personalization services respond to the expectations of modern consumers who wish to adapt receiving their parcels to their schedules.

Notifications constitute a key element of the delivery experience. Postal operators generally inform recipients by SMS, email or via their mobile application of the imminent arrival of their parcel, failed delivery attempts and available pickup methods. These communications allow the recipient to stay informed and take necessary steps to receive their shipment under the best conditions.

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

The claims procedure for a lost or damaged international parcel falls within the regulatory framework established by the Universal Postal Convention. This fundamental text defines general principles concerning claims, the liability of designated operators and applicable compensation. The process generally involves several parties since the shipment has transited between at least two national postal operators, that of the origin country and that of the destination country.

The first step is to contact the postal operator from which the shipment was deposited, that is, the post office of the country of origin. This operator is responsible for initiating the claims procedure and will coordinate searches with its counterparts in transit and destination countries. A claim is defined by the UPU Convention as a complaint or request relating to the use of a postal service, submitted in accordance with conditions established by applicable texts.

The timeframes for filing a claim vary depending on operators and types of shipments, but it is generally advisable to act quickly once a problem is discovered. For a presumed lost parcel, it is best to wait a reasonable time beyond the estimated delivery time before initiating proceedings, while not delaying excessively as search possibilities diminish over time. For a damaged parcel, the claim must be filed upon discovery of damage, ideally at the time of receipt.

• Step 1: Gather all documents related to the shipment: proof of deposit, tracking number, invoice or proof of content value
• Step 2: Contact the originating postal operator to report the problem and request an investigation
• Step 3: Complete the claims form provided by the operator with all required information
• Step 4: Provide necessary evidence: photos of damage, value estimate, detailed description of contents
• Step 5: Track the investigation progress with the operator coordinating searches with international partners
• Step 6: In case of confirmed loss or verified damage, receive compensation according to applicable scales

The right to compensation is governed by UPU rules. A recipient may claim compensation for an ordinary parcel or a shipment with declared value that is plundered, damaged or lost if the sender waives their rights in writing in favor of the recipient. This waiver is not necessary when the sender and recipient are the same person. The designated operator of origin has the faculty to pay senders the compensation provided by its national legislation, provided it is not less than the amounts fixed by the Convention.

Compensation amounts vary depending on the type of service used. For shipments with declared value, compensation corresponds to the amount declared at the time of dispatch, subject to being able to justify this value. For ordinary shipments without declared value, indemnification ceilings are set by the UPU Convention and applied by national operators. These amounts are generally limited and may not cover the full value of precious contents, hence the importance of taking out supplementary insurance for valuable shipments.

Postal operators exchange standardized inquiry messages to locate an object, verify a transfer of responsibility, clarify customs status or arrange reforwarding. Responses are based on tracking event history, handling scans and records of load units. Response timeframes and procedures are governed by common rules to ensure efficient and fair resolution of disputes.

Does International Post handle international shipments and customs procedures?

The management of customs procedures constitutes one of the essential missions of the Universal Postal Union in the context of international postal exchanges. The organization works closely with the World Customs Organization (WCO) to facilitate customs clearance of postal shipments while respecting security requirements and collection of applicable duties and taxes. This cooperation has been significantly strengthened with the rise of e-commerce which generates millions of cross-border parcels daily.

The CN22 and CN23 customs declaration forms represent the key documents for customs clearance of international postal shipments. Issued under the auspices of the UPU, these forms play a role similar to that of a passport for parcels: they provide customs administrations with all necessary information about shipment contents, value and the identity of the parties. Since 2018, CN22 and CN23 have incorporated the S10 barcode, thus making it possible to link postal tracking to customs data.

The CN22 form is used for international shipments of low value, generally under 300 euros and weighing less than 2 kilograms. This simplified declaration suits individuals sending items personally or gifts perfectly. The document, less detailed than the CN23, may be affixed to the parcel as a sticker and does not require a date stamp. The CN23 form, more complete, is required for shipments exceeding these thresholds or containing merchandise requiring detailed description.

• CN22 form: Simplified declaration for low-value shipments (less than 300 euros) and low-weight (less than 2 kg)
• CN23 form: Mandatory detailed declaration for higher-value shipments or heavier parcels, including country of origin, 6-digit HS tariff code and unit value
• Prior electronic data: Advance transmission of customs information electronically to accelerate risk analysis
• Commercial documents: Proforma or commercial invoice required for commercial shipments
• Specific certificates: Depending on the nature of merchandise, health, phytosanitary or compliance certificates may be required

Customs cooperation within the UPU is based on the exchange of structured prior electronic data. Information about the sender and recipient, description of merchandise, quantity and commercial references allow risk assessment and routing to the appropriate customs clearance channel. Postal systems transmit this data ahead of physical parcel arrival, then enhance the file with receipt events and presentation to authorities.

Customs duties and import taxes are generally the responsibility of the recipient, according to the regulations of the destination country. When a shipment is subject to duties and taxes, the destination postal operator ensures collection from the recipient before parcel delivery. The amount depends on the nature of merchandise, their declared value and trade agreements between the countries concerned. Shipments between individuals for personal use often benefit from exemptions or waivers up to certain value thresholds.

The Customs Group of the UPU Postal Operations Council actively collaborates with its supply chain partners to maintain the fluidity of postal flows while meeting control requirements. The joint WCO-UPU Guide for postal customs clearance, regularly updated, provides operators and customs administrations a common reference framework to harmonize procedures globally. This standardization helps reduce customs clearance delays and improve predictability for senders and recipients.

Understanding tracking statuses

When you track an International Post parcel online, different statuses may appear. These labels use the standardized terminology used by postal operators within the UPU framework. Here are the main statuses and their meanings: