What Do AliExpress Tracking Statuses Mean? Full List for UK Shoppers

If you’re shopping on AliExpress from the UK, understanding the AliExpress tracking statuses is crucial for a smooth online shopping experience. With international shipping, parcels often travel long distances and pass through multiple carriers and customs checks. This can make the tracking process seem confusing, especially when you encounter unfamiliar status updates. Knowing what each tracking status means helps you stay informed about your order’s progress, anticipate delivery times, and spot any potential issues early on.

For UK buyers, it’s particularly important to understand these statuses because shipping routes, customs clearance, and delivery partners may differ from those in other countries. Delays can sometimes occur at UK customs or during handover to local couriers like Royal Mail. By learning the full list of AliExpress tracking statuses, you’ll be better equipped to track your parcel, resolve issues with sellers, and make informed decisions if something goes wrong. This knowledge also helps you make the most of AliExpress buyer protection and avoid unnecessary stress while waiting for your order to arrive.

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What Do AliExpress Tracking Statuses Mean? Full List for UK Buyers

AliExpress tracking statuses indicate the current location and progress of your parcel throughout its delivery journey, such as

Understanding AliExpress tracking statuses is essential for UK shoppers who want to keep track of their international orders. Each tracking update gives you insight into your parcel’s journey from the seller in China (or another country) to your doorstep in the United Kingdom. Below, you’ll find a full list of AliExpress tracking statuses explained in plain English, with UK-specific advice and answers to common questions.

What Are the Stages of AliExpress Tracking?

The stages of AliExpress tracking follow your order from dispatch to delivery. Here’s a typical journey for a parcel shipped to the UK:

  1. Order Placed: You’ve completed your purchase, and the seller is preparing your item.
  2. Awaiting Shipment: The seller is packaging your order and preparing it for dispatch.
  3. Shipped: The seller has handed your parcel to the carrier. Tracking information becomes available.
  4. In Transit: Your package is moving through the logistics network, often crossing international borders.
  5. Arrived at Destination Country: The parcel has reached the UK and is with local customs or the courier.
  6. Customs Clearance: Your item is being inspected by UK customs. If VAT or duties are due, you may be contacted.
  7. Out for Delivery: The parcel is with the local courier (like Royal Mail, Hermes, or DPD) and on its way to you.
  8. Delivered: The package has been delivered to your address.

Some orders may have additional or slightly different statuses depending on the shipping method used, such as AliExpress Standard Shipping tracking or AliExpress Oversized Shipping tracking.

AliExpress Tracking Statuses: Full List and What They Mean

Here’s a comprehensive list of AliExpress tracking statuses you might see, with explanations tailored for UK buyers:

  • Order Information Received: The seller has created a shipping label, but the parcel hasn’t been picked up yet.
  • Accepted by Carrier: The courier has received the parcel from the seller.
  • Departure from Country of Origin: The package has left the seller’s country (e.g., China).
  • Arrived at Sorting Center: The parcel is at a logistics hub, either in the origin or destination country.
  • Exported from Outbound Office of Exchange: The package has left the main international mail facility in the origin country.
  • In Transit: The parcel is on its way between logistics centres or countries. What does “is in transit” mean? It means your package is moving, often by air or sea, and is not yet in the UK.
  • Arrived at Destination Country: The parcel has reached the UK and will soon be processed by customs.
  • Pending Customs Clearance: The package is waiting for customs inspection in the UK. You may need to pay VAT or duties.
  • Released from Customs: The item has cleared UK customs and is ready for local delivery.
  • Handed Over to Local Courier: Your parcel is now with a UK courier (e.g., Royal Mail, Hermes/Evri, or DPD).
  • Out for Delivery: The courier is delivering your parcel today.
  • Delivered: The parcel has arrived at your address. How do you know when your AliExpress package is delivered? You’ll see this status on AliExpress, and often receive a notification from the local courier.
  • Unsuccessful Delivery Attempt: The courier tried to deliver but no one was available. They may try again or leave a card.
  • Returned to Sender: The parcel is being sent back to the seller, possibly due to failed delivery or customs issues.

These statuses may appear slightly differently depending on the specific carrier or if you’re using third-party tracking services like 17TRACK or USPS tracking for AliExpress orders shipped to the UK.

How Does AliExpress Tracking Work?

AliExpress tracking works by assigning a unique tracking number to each parcel. This number is scanned at various checkpoints, and the information is updated on the AliExpress website and app. Most UK-bound parcels use AliExpress Standard Shipping tracking, though some may be shipped via China Post, Aliexpress Oversized Shipping tracking, or even couriers like DHL or EMS for expedited orders.

Screenshot of an AliExpress order tracking page showing various tracking statuses and their explanations in English, helping users understand the progress of their online purchase.

To track your order:

  • Go to your AliExpress account and view your order details.
  • Copy the tracking number provided.
  • Use the AliExpress website, app, or third-party sites like 17TRACK for more detailed updates, especially once the parcel reaches the UK.

For some shipping methods, once the parcel arrives in the UK, you can use local courier websites (such as Royal Mail or Hermes/Evri) to get more precise tracking updates.

How Accurate Is AliExpress’s Estimated Delivery?

AliExpress’s estimated delivery times are generally a rough guide. For UK buyers, the typical range is 10 to 30 days, but this can vary depending on:

  • Shipping method: AliExpress Standard Shipping is usually faster and more reliable than China Post or untracked methods.
  • Time of year: Holidays, sales, or peak periods can cause delays.
  • Customs processing: UK customs may hold parcels for inspection, especially post-Brexit.
  • Local courier workload: Once in the UK, delays can occur if Royal Mail or other couriers are busy.

While the estimated delivery date is usually accurate for most parcels, it’s not a guarantee. Delays can and do happen, so always keep an eye on your tracking updates.

Why Is My AliExpress Tracking Not Updating?

A screenshot of the AliExpress order tracking page displaying various tracking statuses and their descriptions in English (UK), helping users understand the meaning of each status.

It’s common for UK buyers to wonder, “Why is my AliExpress tracking not updating?” Here are the most frequent reasons:

  • Carrier delays: Sometimes parcels aren’t scanned at every checkpoint, especially during busy periods.
  • International transit: Updates may pause while your parcel is on a plane or ship between countries.
  • Customs processing: Parcels can sit in customs for several days without status changes.
  • Untracked shipping methods: Some low-cost options don’t provide full tracking once the parcel leaves China.

If your tracking hasn’t updated for more than 10 days, check with the seller or use a third-party tracking site like 17TRACK to see if there’s more information available. For many UK buyers, patience is key—delays are common but most parcels do eventually arrive.

How Long Does AliExpress Usually Take to Deliver to the UK?

The question “How long does AliExpress usually take to deliver?” is top of mind for many UK shoppers. Here’s what you can expect:

  • AliExpress Standard Shipping: 10–20 business days to the UK, sometimes up to 30 days.
  • China Post Registered Air Mail: 15–30 business days.
  • AliExpress Premium Shipping / DHL / EMS: 7–15 business days, but often more expensive.
  • AliExpress Oversized Shipping: Large or bulky items may take longer (up to 40 days), with special tracking provided.
  • Untracked Economy Shipping: Can take 30–60 days; tracking may stop once the parcel leaves China.

If your parcel hasn’t arrived within the estimated timeframe, you can open a dispute on AliExpress for a refund. Always check the protection period on your order.

What Do AliExpress Tracking Statuses Mean (Full List): UK vs USA vs Reddit

Many UK buyers search for “What do AliExpress tracking statuses mean full list USA” or check Reddit for real-world experiences. While the basic statuses are similar worldwide, there are a few UK-specific points:

  • Customs and VAT: UK parcels may show additional statuses related to customs clearance and VAT payment.
  • Local courier handoff: Once in the UK, parcels are often transferred to Royal Mail, Hermes/Evri, or DPD, which may update the tracking with new statuses.
  • Delivery confirmation: UK couriers usually provide proof of delivery, such as a signature or photo.

On Reddit, users often share screenshots of their tracking histories, which can help you understand what to expect. For example, if you see a status like “Arrived at the local delivery office”, it means your parcel is ready for the final leg of its journey in the UK.

AliExpress Tracking with 17TRACK, USPS, and China Post

For more detailed tracking, many UK buyers use third-party platforms like 17TRACK. Here’s how it works:

  • 17TRACK: Enter your AliExpress tracking number to see updates from multiple carriers, including China Post and UK couriers.
  • USPS tracking: Not usually relevant for UK buyers, but if your parcel passes through the USA en route, you may see USPS updates.
  • AliExpress tracking China Post: If your order ships via China Post, you can track it on the China Post website or via 17TRACK for more detailed updates.

Once your parcel is in the UK, use your tracking number on Royal Mail or Hermes/Evri’s website for the most accurate local updates.

AliExpress Standard Shipping Tracking for UK Orders

AliExpress Standard Shipping is the most popular option for UK buyers because it offers a balance of speed, cost, and reliable tracking. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Tracking coverage: Full tracking from the seller to your UK address, including customs and local courier updates.
  • Estimated delivery: 10–20 business days, but can be delayed by customs or peak shipping periods.
  • Final mile delivery: Usually handled by Royal Mail or Hermes/Evri, who will provide the final delivery status.

If your tracking number starts with LP or RU, it’s likely using AliExpress Standard Shipping. These numbers can be tracked on AliExpress, 17TRACK, and UK courier sites.

AliExpress Oversized Shipping Tracking: What UK Buyers Should Know

For large or heavy items, AliExpress Oversized Shipping tracking is used. Key points include:

  • Longer delivery times: Oversized items may take 30–40 days due to special handling and customs checks.
  • Special tracking numbers: These may not work on all tracking sites, but 17TRACK usually recognises them.
  • Customs fees: Large items are more likely to incur VAT and customs duties upon arrival in the UK.

If you’re unsure, ask the seller for the best site to track your oversized order or check the tracking number on AliExpress and 17TRACK.

How Do You Know When Your AliExpress Package Is Delivered in the UK?

Once your parcel is with a UK courier, you’ll see statuses like:

  • Out for delivery: The courier is delivering your parcel today.
  • Delivered: Parcel has arrived at your address. Some couriers provide a photo or require a signature.
  • Delivery attempted: If you weren’t home, check for a missed delivery card or schedule a redelivery.

You’ll also receive a notification on AliExpress and, if you’ve provided your email or mobile, from the local courier. Always check your tracking status if you’re expecting a delivery.

Common Tracking Issues and Solutions for UK Buyers

Here are some UK-specific tips if you encounter problems with your AliExpress tracking:

  • Tracking stuck at “In Transit”: This is normal for up to 10 days, especially during international transit. If it’s longer, contact the seller.
  • No tracking updates after arrival in UK: Try your tracking number on Royal Mail or Hermes/Evri’s website, as the local courier may have more recent information.
  • Parcel marked as delivered but not received: Check with neighbours, your local delivery office, or contact the courier. If you still can’t find it, open a dispute on AliExpress.
  • Customs fees requested: If you receive a letter or email from Royal Mail or another courier requesting payment, this is normal for some items post-Brexit. Pay promptly to avoid delays.

For more advice, UK buyers often check Reddit threads or the AliExpress help centre for real-world solutions.

Tips for Tracking AliExpress Orders to the UK

  • Always use AliExpress Standard Shipping for reliable tracking and faster delivery.
  • Use 17TRACK for multi-carrier visibility, especially for complex shipments.
  • Switch to your local courier’s website once the parcel has arrived in the UK for the most up-to-date tracking.
  • Keep an eye on your order’s protection period and open a dispute if your parcel hasn’t arrived by the deadline.
  • Read Reddit discussions for recent experiences and tips from other UK AliExpress shoppers.

By understanding the full list of AliExpress tracking statuses and how they apply to UK deliveries, you’ll be able to shop with confidence and know exactly where your parcel is at every stage of its journey.

FAQ: What Do AliExpress Tracking Statuses Mean? Full List

What does “Awaiting Shipment” mean on AliExpress?

“Awaiting Shipment” indicates that your order has been received by the seller but has not yet been dispatched. At this stage, the seller is preparing your item for shipment. If this status remains unchanged for several days, consider contacting the seller for updates. For more tips on tracking your parcel, check this AliExpress delivery tracker guide.

What does “Shipped” or “In Transit” mean?

“Shipped” or “In Transit” means your package has left the seller and is on its way to the destination country. During this period, the parcel may be handled by various carriers and pass through different transit points. This status can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the shipping method and customs clearance.

What is “Arrived at Destination Country”?

When you see “Arrived at Destination Country”, your parcel has reached your local customs or postal facility. It will soon be processed for final delivery. At this stage, you may experience customs processing, which can add extra days to the delivery time. This is a normal part of international shipping.

What does “Customs Clearance” mean?

“Customs Clearance” indicates that your package is being inspected by customs authorities in your country. The process checks the contents and ensures all duties or taxes are paid. If additional information or payment is needed, your local carrier or customs office will contact you. Delays at this stage are common and usually outside the seller’s control.

What does “Out for Delivery” mean?

“Out for Delivery” means your parcel is with the local courier and will be delivered to your address soon, typically within the same day. Make sure someone is available to receive the package, or follow your local postal service’s instructions for missed deliveries. For more tracking options, visit this USPS customer tracking page.

What does “Delivered” mean on AliExpress?

“Delivered” confirms that your order has reached its final destination and has been marked as received by you or someone at your address. If you have not received the parcel but the status shows “Delivered”, check with neighbours or your local post office, and contact the seller if necessary.

What should I do if my tracking status hasn’t updated for a long time?

If your tracking status hasn’t updated for more than 7-10 days, it could be due to customs delays, local holidays, or logistical issues. First, check with your local postal service using the tracking number. If there is still no update, message the seller through AliExpress for assistance or open a dispute if the protection period is ending.

Why do some tracking statuses show up in a foreign language?

Some tracking statuses may appear in Chinese or another language if the parcel is being processed in the origin country. AliExpress usually provides an English translation, but if not, you can use online translation tools or contact the seller for clarification. This is a common occurrence with international shipments and does not indicate a problem with your order.

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