When you see “shipment in transit” on your tracking page, it means your package is currently on the move. It’s traveling through the carrier’s network, heading toward the final destination. That doesn’t mean it’s in a delivery vehicle every minute. It could be waiting at a sorting facility, distribution center, or even the local post office.
Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Shipping Process
Packages don’t travel in straight lines. They pass through many stages:
- Seller’s warehouse
- Courier company’s depots
- Sorting facility
- Distribution center
- Local facility or post office
- Recipient’s address
Each stop is a part of the delivery process. The journey is all about efficiency, safety, and accuracy.
Why Is My Shipment Still In Transit?
Stuck at Customs
When a package goes through international shipping, it must pass customs clearance. If documents are missing or incomplete, it might be stuck in transit.
Tip: Always include a complete customs declaration for international packages.
Here’s a good read on Customs Duty, Taxes and Exemptions when shipping from Canada to the US.
Overweight Package
Carriers have weight limits. If your package exceeds them, it might be delayed or returned.
Solution: Contact your courier service to see if you can package separately or pay extra.
Address Changes
Changed your shipping address after the order was sent? That can delay delivery. It takes time for systems to update delivery instructions.
Poor Packaging or Wrong Details
If the box is damaged or the shipping label has wrong details written, the carrier may stop the delivery.
Double-check: Make sure all labels are clear and correct.
Bad Weather or Traffic
Traffic congestion, snowstorms, or flooding can delay your shipment. The tracking will still show “in transit” until things resume.
Tracking the Package’s Progress
Courier companies scan packages at every major point. That’s how they keep customers informed with status updates.
But scanning doesn’t happen constantly. Sometimes there’s a gap of 24-48 hours, especially for long-distance or international shipments.
You’ll usually see:
- Picked up
- In transit
- Out for delivery
- Delivered
If you see no movement for 3+ days, contact customer service.
What “In Transit” Means for FedEx and UPS
FedEx
A package may stay in one location for a day or two without new tracking info. Delays happen, especially when high shipping volumes cause trailers to pile up at hubs.
UPS
You might see messages like:
- “In-Transit: Please check back later for scheduled delivery.”
- “Your package is delayed due to events beyond our control.”
It often clears up in a day or two.
En Route to the Final Destination
Your package might seem stuck, but it’s usually just between scan points or waiting for the next delivery vehicle. The estimated delivery date still stands unless something changes.
Even without frequent scans, your order is en route and nearing its critical stage—arrival!
Delivery Time: What Affects It?
Several factors play a role in the delivery timeline:
Shipping Method
Whether you choose standard, expedited, or express shipping impacts how fast your package moves. Express options come at a higher cost but often guarantee quicker delivery.
Distance
Longer distances mean more checkpoints. Shipping across provinces or internationally increases the chance of delays or reroutes.
Customs Processing
For international shipments, customs is a major hurdle. Each country has its own import rules and inspection procedures, which can cause delays even if paperwork is correct.
Weather and Traffic Congestion
Storms, snow, and heavy traffic can pause deliveries. Carriers may delay shipments for safety, even if everything else is ready to go.
Incomplete or Wrong Details
A wrong postal code or misspelled address can send your package on a detour. Always double-check before shipping.
High Shipping Volumes
Holidays, sales, and peak seasons can overwhelm shipping companies. Delays become more common as carriers juggle increased demand.
Additional Considerations for International Shipping
Shipping across borders isn’t just about moving boxes—it’s about navigating rules, regulations, and expectations. Here’s what else you should think about:
Time Zones and Local Holidays
Your delivery might be delayed if the destination country has local holidays or works in a different time zone. These aren’t always reflected in your carrier’s estimate.
Language and Labeling
Clear labeling in the local language can reduce confusion at customs. Include the recipient’s address in the correct format and add local contact info if possible.
Restricted Items
Certain products can’t cross borders due to safety or legal restrictions. Always check what’s allowed in the destination country before shipping.
Carrier Efficiency by Region
Some carriers are better in specific regions. Make sure your chosen courier service has strong infrastructure in the destination country.
Insurance and Returns
International shipments are at higher risk for loss or damage. Adding insurance and having a return policy in place can help protect your bottom line.
Role of Courier Services
A reliable courier company plays a crucial role in the shipping process. Their speed, communication, and network all affect how fast your customer receives their order.
Here’s what makes a courier stand out:
Robust Tracking Systems
Great courier services offer detailed tracking—from pickup to delivery. They provide regular tracking updates, helping customers see the package status at each stage.
Proactive Customer Support
If things go wrong, a responsive customer service team can make all the difference. Look for carriers with strong support and easy ways to contact customer service.
Reliable Delivery Windows
Meeting the estimated delivery date builds trust. Couriers that deliver on time create a better customer experience and reduce support requests.
If you are looking for reliable carrier for your eCommerce store, try ShippingChimp for free
Scanning at Every Stage
Courier companies scan packages frequently, ensuring visibility. This reduces stress and helps manage customer expectations.
Order Tracking and Realistic Expectations
Tracking tools help set realistic expectations. Services like USPS tracking, FedEx, and UPS offer:
- Real-time tracking information
- Email or SMS tracking updates
- Accurate estimated delivery time
Using a tracking number, customers can monitor their package’s journey without needing to call the customer service team.
Improving Customer Experience
Keeping customers informed is key to customer satisfaction. Clear communication builds trust.
Here’s how to improve the post purchase experience:
- Send frequent status updates
- Share expected delays
- Offer helpful self-service tools
- Use proactive communication when issues arise
Best Practices for D2C eCommerce Brands in Canada
- Offer multiple shipping method options
- Be upfront about the estimated delivery date
- Educate your team on international shipping documentation
- Have a plan for lost packages and errors
The Rise of Online Shopping and Delivery Expectations
With online shopping booming, fast and visible shipping isn’t a bonus—it’s a must.
E commerce business owners must:
- Deliver on time
- Keep packages moving
- Ensure top-notch courier service
A smooth shipping process means fewer headaches and happier buyers.
Wrapping Up: Understanding In Transit Status
When your shipment is in transit, it means it’s on the way. No need to worry—unless you see no movement for several days.
Always check your tracking system and be prepared to contact customer service with your tracking number if something feels off.
Want to offer better shipping? Choose shipping companies that value transparency, speed, and support.
