Why Is My Aliexpress Tracking Not Updating?

Why Is My AliExpress Tracking Not Updating? A Guide for UK Shoppers

If you’ve recently placed an order on AliExpress and noticed that your tracking information isn’t updating, you’re not alone. Many UK shoppers experience delays or gaps in tracking updates, leading to understandable frustration and confusion. With the growing popularity of AliExpress in the UK, it’s important to know why these tracking issues occur and what they mean for your delivery. Uncertainty about parcel location and concerns over potential lost packages are common worries, especially when waiting for international shipments.

Understanding how AliExpress shipping works for UK customers can help ease these concerns. Factors such as customs clearance, international transit, and the handover to local couriers like Royal Mail all impact tracking visibility and delivery times. By knowing what to expect and how to interpret tracking statuses, UK buyers can shop with more confidence and avoid unnecessary stress while waiting for their orders to arrive.

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Why Is My AliExpress Tracking Not Updating?

Common Reasons Why Your AliExpress Tracking Number Is Not Updating

AliExpress tracking not updating is a frequent concern for many UK buyers. If you’re wondering, “Why is my tracking number not updating on AliExpress?” or “Why is my tracking order not updating?”, you’re not alone. Here are some of the most common reasons for this issue:

• Delays in Package Scanning: Sometimes, your parcel is shipped but not immediately scanned by the courier. This is especially common during busy periods or public holidays in China or the UK.
• International Transit: Packages often spend several days in transit between countries. During this time, tracking may not update until the parcel reaches a new checkpoint or enters the UK customs system.
• Economy Shipping Methods: Many sellers use low-cost shipping options like Cainiao or unregistered mail. These services provide limited tracking, especially once the package leaves China.
• System Synchronisation Issues: Sometimes, there’s a lag between the logistics provider updating their system and the tracking information appearing on AliExpress, 17TRACK, or ParcelsApp.
• Incorrect or Recycled Tracking Numbers: On rare occasions, sellers may provide a recycled tracking number or make an error when entering your shipment details.

How Long Does a Tracking Number Take to Update?

How long does a tracking number take to update? Typically, it takes 24 to 72 hours after the seller ships your order for tracking information to appear. However, it can take longer if:

• The seller delays dispatching the package.
• The shipping company takes time to scan and process the parcel.
• Your order is sent via an economy shipping method with limited tracking.

If you’re worried about your AliExpress tracking not updating after several days, check the estimated delivery time and contact the seller if the status remains unchanged for more than a week.

Why Is My AliExpress Package Taking So Long?

Why is my AliExpress package taking so long? UK buyers often experience longer delivery times due to factors such as:

• Customs Clearance: Parcels entering the UK must clear customs, which can add several days to the delivery timeline, especially if there are backlogs or additional checks.
• Shipping Method: Economy shipping options are slower and less predictable. If you want faster and more reliable tracking, choose premium shipping methods like AliExpress Standard Shipping or DHL.
• High Order Volumes: During sales events or holidays, logistics companies handle more parcels, leading to delays in both shipping and tracking updates.
• Pandemic or Weather Disruptions: Unforeseen events, such as COVID-19 or severe weather, can disrupt international shipping routes and slow down parcel processing.

If you search Why is my AliExpress order taking so long or check Aliexpress tracking not updating reddit, you’ll find many UK buyers sharing similar experiences, especially during busy seasons.

What to Do If Your AliExpress Tracking Is Not Updating

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for UK Buyers

If your AliExpress tracking is not updating, follow these steps:

1. Check the Estimated Delivery Window:
   • AliExpress provides an estimated delivery time based on your shipping method. For the UK, this is usually 15–35 days for standard shipping.
   • Tracking may not update daily, especially for economy services.
2. Use Multiple Tracking Platforms:
   • Sometimes, AliExpress’s own tracking page is slow to update. Try entering your tracking number on 17TRACK, ParcelsApp, or the courier’s official site (e.g., Cainiao tracking for economy packages).
   • If your parcel is handed over to a UK carrier (like Royal Mail or ParcelForce), use their website for updates.
3. Contact the Seller:
   • Message the seller via AliExpress if tracking hasn’t updated for more than 7 days after dispatch. Ask for clarification or a new tracking number if you suspect an error.
4. Wait for Customs Clearance:
   • UK customs can hold parcels for inspection, especially if the declared value is high or paperwork is incomplete. Tracking may not update until the parcel is released.
5. Open a Dispute if Necessary:
   • If your order is overdue and tracking remains unchanged, open a dispute on AliExpress before the buyer protection period expires.

Why Is My AliExpress Tracking Not Updating After “Dispatched”?

Many UK buyers report on Aliexpress tracking not updating reddit that tracking often stalls after the “Dispatched” or “Departed Country of Origin” status. This is because:

• International Leg: Parcels are in transit between China and the UK, often via air or sea. No updates are available until arrival in the UK.
• Economy Carrier Limitations: Services like Cainiao or unregistered mail may not provide real-time updates once the parcel leaves China.

Using platforms like 17TRACK or ParcelsApp can sometimes reveal more information, especially if your parcel switches to a UK carrier.

How Accurate Is AliExpress Delivery Time for UK Buyers?

Understanding AliExpress Estimated Delivery Times

How accurate is AliExpress delivery time? The estimated delivery window on AliExpress is a guideline, not a guarantee. For UK buyers:

• Standard Shipping: Usually 15–35 days, but can be faster or slower depending on customs, logistics, and local delivery partners.
• Premium Shipping: Options like DHL or FedEx are more reliable, often delivering within 7–15 days.
• Economy Shipping: May take up to 60 days in rare cases, especially if tracking is not updating.

If you search Why is my AliExpress tracking not updating reddit, you’ll find UK buyers reporting both early and late deliveries. While the system is generally reliable, occasional delays are normal.

What If AliExpress Tracked as Delivered but Received Nothing?

What if AliExpress tracked as delivered but received nothing? This is a frustrating situation for UK buyers. Here’s what you should do:

• Check with Local Delivery Partners: Sometimes, parcels are marked as delivered by mistake or delivered to a neighbour. Contact Royal Mail or your local courier with the tracking number.
• Review Delivery Details: Confirm your shipping address and any delivery instructions provided to the seller.
• Contact the Seller: Ask the seller for proof of delivery, such as a delivery receipt or photo.
• Open a Dispute: If you cannot locate the parcel, open a dispute on AliExpress and provide evidence (such as a statement from Royal Mail) that you did not receive the item.

AliExpress buyer protection covers non-delivery, but you must act before the protection period ends.

AliExpress Tracking Platforms and Their Limitations

Using 17TRACK, ParcelsApp, and Cainiao Tracking

Many UK buyers use external tracking platforms like 17TRACK, ParcelsApp, and Cainiao tracking to get more detailed updates. Here’s what you need to know:

• 17TRACK:
  • Supports multiple couriers and can track parcels from dispatch in China to delivery in the UK.
  • May show more detailed scans than AliExpress’s built-in tracker, especially during international transit.
• ParcelsApp:
  • Similar to 17TRACK, it aggregates tracking data from various carriers, including Royal Mail and ParcelForce in the UK.
  • Useful for tracking packages as they switch between international and domestic couriers.
• Cainiao Tracking:
  • Cainiao is Alibaba’s logistics arm and often handles “AliExpress Standard Shipping.”
  • Tracking is generally reliable until the parcel leaves China, but may become less detailed once handed to UK carriers.

If your AliExpress tracking is not updating on any of these platforms, it’s likely due to a lack of new scans or the parcel being in transit between countries.

USPS Tracking and UK Deliveries

Some UK buyers notice their AliExpress tracking mentions USPS tracking. This usually happens if the seller uses a US-based logistics hub or the parcel is routed through the US before reaching the UK. In such cases:

• Tracking may update on the USPS site while the parcel is in the US.
• Once the parcel leaves the US, tracking may pause until it arrives in the UK and is handed to Royal Mail or another local courier.

If you see no updates after the USPS stage, it’s normal for there to be a gap until the parcel reaches UK customs.

How to Choose the Best Shipping Method for Reliable Tracking

Shipping Methods and Tracking Reliability for UK Buyers

To avoid AliExpress tracking not updating issues, UK buyers should consider the following shipping options:

• AliExpress Standard Shipping: Offers reliable tracking and is usually handed to Royal Mail in the UK.
• ePacket: Fast and trackable, but less commonly available since Brexit and changes in international postal agreements.
• Premium Couriers (DHL, FedEx): Expensive but provide the fastest delivery and detailed tracking updates.
• Cainiao Super Economy: Cheapest, but offers limited tracking—best for low-value items only.

When placing your order, always check the estimated delivery time and tracking availability for your chosen shipping method.

How to Track AliExpress Orders in the UK

For the most accurate and up-to-date tracking, UK buyers should:

1. Copy your AliExpress tracking number from the order details page.
2. Paste it into 17TRACK, ParcelsApp, or the official courier website.
3. Once your parcel is in the UK, try tracking it on Royal Mail or ParcelForce using the same number.

If you’re still experiencing AliExpress tracking not updating, contact the seller and consider opening a dispute if your order is overdue.

AliExpress Buyer Protection and What to Do If Your Parcel Is Lost

How AliExpress Buyer Protection Works for UK Buyers

AliExpress offers a buyer protection period (usually 60 days from dispatch). If your tracking is not updating and you haven’t received your parcel within this window:

• Contact the Seller: Ask for updates or a replacement.
• Open a Dispute: Provide screenshots of the tracking page and any correspondence.
• Claim a Refund: If the parcel is confirmed lost or undelivered, AliExpress will usually refund your payment.

Always act before the buyer protection period expires to ensure your rights are protected.

What to Do If Your Tracking Shows “Delivered” but You Didn’t Receive Anything

If your tracking status is “Delivered” but you haven’t received your parcel:

• Check with neighbours or your local delivery office.
• Request a delivery confirmation or GPS proof from the seller or courier.
• Open a dispute on AliExpress, stating that you did not receive the item despite the tracking status.

AliExpress will investigate and, in most cases, offer a refund if you provide sufficient evidence.

Tips to Avoid AliExpress Tracking Issues When Shopping from the UK

• Choose Reliable Sellers: Check seller ratings, reviews, and shipping history before placing your order.
• Select Trackable Shipping: Opt for AliExpress Standard Shipping or premium courier services for better tracking and faster delivery.
• Monitor Buyer Protection: Set a reminder for the end of your buyer protection period so you can act if your parcel is delayed.
• Use Multiple Tracking Tools: Always cross-check tracking updates on 17TRACK, ParcelsApp, and the UK courier’s website.
• Contact Sellers Promptly: If your tracking is not updating, message the seller early to resolve issues before the buyer protection window closes.

By following these steps, UK buyers can minimise the risk of AliExpress tracking not updating and ensure a smoother online shopping experience.

FAQ: Why Is My AliExpress Tracking Not Updating?

Why has my AliExpress tracking status not changed for several days?

It’s common for AliExpress tracking information to remain unchanged for a few days, especially during international transit. Parcels often pass through multiple carriers and customs, and tracking updates may only occur when the package reaches a new processing centre. If your tracking hasn’t updated for 5–10 days, it typically means the parcel is in transit and not lost.

Is it normal for AliExpress parcels to have no tracking updates after leaving China?

Yes, it’s quite normal. Once your AliExpress order leaves China, there can be a gap before it’s scanned by your local postal service in the UK. During this period, tracking information may not update until the parcel clears customs and is processed locally. This gap can last from a few days to over a week, depending on shipping method and customs clearance times.

What should I do if my tracking hasn’t updated for over two weeks?

If your tracking status hasn’t changed for more than two weeks, first check if your estimated delivery window has passed. Contact the seller via AliExpress messaging to request an update. If there’s still no progress, you can open a dispute for a refund or reshipment. Always keep your order details and communication within the AliExpress platform for buyer protection.

Could customs delays cause my AliExpress tracking to stop updating?

UK customs processing can sometimes delay parcels and tracking updates. Packages may be held for inspection or duty assessment, causing tracking to appear stuck. This is a common occurrence, especially during busy periods. Once cleared, tracking will usually update with new information from the local courier.

Why does my tracking number show “not found” or “invalid” on tracking websites?

A “not found” or “invalid” tracking status can occur if the seller has just shipped your item and the postal system hasn’t yet registered the number. It may also happen if you’re using a third-party tracking site that hasn’t synced with the shipping carrier. Always check on both AliExpress and the official postal carrier’s website for the most accurate updates.

How do I track my AliExpress parcel once it’s in the UK?

Once your parcel arrives in the UK, it’s usually handled by Royal Mail or another local courier. You can use the same tracking number on the Royal Mail website for updated information. Sometimes, the tracking number may change when handed over to the local courier. In such cases, contact the seller for the new tracking code or check your AliExpress order details for updates.

Does the shipping method affect how often tracking is updated?

Absolutely. AliExpress Standard Shipping and premium options like DHL or EMS provide more frequent tracking updates. Economy shipping methods, such as Cainiao Super Economy, may offer limited or no tracking once the parcel leaves China. For more reliable tracking, consider choosing a shipping method with full tracking coverage at checkout.

Where can I get more help if my AliExpress tracking is not updating?

If you need further assistance, you can reach out to AliExpress customer support or consult their online help centre. Additionally, you may find helpful resources and community advice on forums and dedicated shopping guides. For more tips on tracking and shopping online, visit the Gift Store at LSHTM (follow link). For trusted information, always use official sources or recognised help pages.

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