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When ordering a package abroad, it can be a little nerve-wracking because it has to travel overseas. But don’t worry – your package is still on its way. There are several reasons why DHL shipments are put on hold, from weather delays to insufficient documentation. Fortunately, this can be resolved with time, patience, and maybe a phone call. In this guide, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about pending DHL packages.
When your DHL shipment is placed on hold, your package may be delayed by several hours or days. This is mainly due to customs inspections, incorrect or incomplete destination addresses, customs and tax payment problems. If there is no update after 10 days from the estimated delivery date, please contact your dealer or DHL customer service for further assistance.
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Congestion problems in ports Due to the high volume of packages, the item may be put on hold because there are not enough staff or modes of transportation to streamline the process. This is particularly pronounced during the holidays when there is a higher demand for goods.
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Disruptions in shipping routes From road closures and bad weather to pandemics and strikes, a host of external events happening around the world can cause packages to be put on hold, especially for a global and international shipping company like DHL. In such situations, DHL must closely follow the decisions of the local authorities in the countries and cities through which the packages are sent.[2]
- Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do in these scenarios but wait for the tracking to update.
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Insufficient customs documentation When ordering a package abroad, the buyer and the sender are obliged to provide the necessary information (correct address, package contents and payment of fees) for successful customs clearance. If not, the package is inspected and delayed. In that case, customs will contact you.[3]
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Local courier delays When DHL fulfills shipments, they are delivered to one of the 220 postal service providers the company partners with around the world. For example, whether your package will be shipped via USPS or FedEx depends on the merchant or online store and the shipping services they offer you before checkout.[4]
If your carrier has delays, this may cause your package to be put on hold.
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Check the tracking status of your shipment regularly. Visit DHL.com and enter the package tracking number on the home page to view the last known location. In general, the delivery of international packages takes from 3 to 14 days. While domestic packages may take 3 to 8 days. An updated delivery date can be obtained by viewing the tracking number.[5]
- If you are the sender, notify the recipient that their package is pending and give them regular updates.
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Make sure all your package papers are properly filed. If you are sending an international package, double check the customs regulations of the destination country to limit delays. Each state has different paperwork requirements. In general, you are required to have a commercial invoice, a free sale letter, a bill of lading, a certificate of origin and an export packing list.[6]
- Customs duties and taxes may be due for certain countries. Be sure to pay any necessary fees to prevent holds.
- If you are receiving an international package, please ensure that all fees have been paid and that your address and preferred contact method are correct.
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Explore the last known destination for insight. If you can’t sit still, we don’t blame you! For peace of mind, Google is the last known destination for all information about strikes, civil unrest, weather updates and similar issues that may affect your package. If you see a big storm or a local delivery person on strike—that could mean why your package was delayed.
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Contact the dealer 10 days after the expected delivery date. Unfortunately, there’s not much you can do except wait for the tracking update. However, if your package still hasn’t arrived or there is no update, please contact your retailer or online store to start an investigation for your package.[7]
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