Parcel tracking, simplified
Track Your
DPD Parcel.
The DPD tracking tool can help you to check where your parcel is at any time. Enter your tracking number and delivery postcode to see the latest updates, estimated delivery date, and one-hour delivery period. You can use it on desktop or mobile without calling DPD.
- Free to use
- Global carriers
- Live status
Status updated
Just now
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Arriving today
Your parcel is nearby
Estimated arrival
Today, 2:30–4:30
- Out for delivery10:42 AM · London, UK
- DeliveredExpected today
DPD Tracking: Track Your Parcel, Check Status & Fix Delivery Delays
You ordered something online; the tracking shows your parcel left a depot three days ago. The tracking status has not changed, and there is no delivery update. Do not show any estimated arrival time. You have checked the tracking page many times in two hours. That's why most people give up and call DPD, only to stay on hold for 20 minutes. But that stuck "status" doesn't mean your parcel is actually stuck. In many cases, a delayed DPD tracking update does not mean there is a problem.
It can be caused by a scanning delay, high parcel volumes, or a system update that has not appeared yet. You will learn what every tracking status actually means, when to worry and when to wait, how to file a claim if something goes wrong, and exactly what to do if your driver misses you.
What is DPD Tracking
DPD tracking provides real-time visibility into your parcel's location and delivery status from pickup through final delivery. When you receive a tracking number from DPD (Dynamic Parcel Distribution), you gain the ability to monitor exactly where your package is and when it will arrive. Millions of parcels move through DPD's network every week.
The company operates over 830 depots across more than 40 countries, with nearly 50 locations serving the UK alone. Understanding how to use DPD tracking isn't just convenient; it's essential if you've ordered something valuable, time-sensitive, or expensive. Instead of guessing when your parcel might arrive, you can check your tracking status anytime and take action if something goes wrong.
How to Track Your DPD Parcel
You can track your DPD parcel in three ways: through DPD's official website, the DPD mobile app, or third-party tracking platforms like AfterShip. The method you choose depends on your preference for ease of use and additional features.
Get Your Tracking Number
➤ Look on the parcel label or in your confirmation email
➤ It's a 12-14 digit code (example: 05123456789123)
➤ Takes less than 2 minutes to track once you have it
Choose Your Tracking Method
➤ Go to track.dpd.co.uk
➤ Enter your tracking number
➤ See: location, last scan time, and delivery date
➤ Updates every 5-10 minutes during final delivery
Third-Party Platforms (AfterShip
➤You can also use the DPD mobile app to get delivery notifications when your parcel leaves a depot, reaches your local area, or goes out for delivery.
➤ Third-party tools such as AfterShip can also track DPD parcels and other carriers from one dashboard.
How to Understand the Tracking Status of DPD
Each tracking status statement tells you where your parcel is and what's happening next.
1
PRE-TRANSIT
Order data transmitted
Means the sender has submitted your parcel details to DPD but hasn't physically handed over the package yet. Action: Wait. Tracking will update once DPD collects or receives the parcel.
2
PRE-TRANSIT
Parcel information received
It indicates DPD has accepted the parcel and created a tracking record. It may still be with the sender, in transit to DPD, or at a sorting facility. Action: Parcel is in the system. Expect the next update within 24 hours.
3
IN TRANSIT
The parcel has arrived at our depot
It means your parcel reached a DPD distribution centre. This happens shortly after collection or when transferred between facilities. Action: Parcel is moving through the network normally. Delivery should occur within the original timeframe.
4
IN TRANSIT
Sorted by distribution center
Shows the parcel has been sorted and is ready for onward transport to your local delivery area. Action: No action needed. Your parcel is progressing normally.
5
DELIVERY DAY
Out for delivery
This is the status that is delivered to see. Your parcel is on a delivery van with your local driver and should arrive today. Action: Be available or arrange alternative delivery before the driver arrives.
6
DELIVERY ISSUE
Delivery attempted
Delivery attempted means the driver tried to deliver but couldn't (wrong address, nobody home, unsafe to leave). Action: Check your door for a calling card. If one's there, follow its instructions for redelivery.
7
DELIVERED
Your parcel has been delivered
This confirms successful delivery. It's yours. Action: Collect it from where the driver left it (your address, a neighbdelivered.or's, a parcel shop, or safe place).
8
DELIVERY ISSUE
We were unable to deliver your parcel
Indicates a delivery failure after multiple attempts or because of a blocking issue (address not found, refusal, etc.). Action: Contact DPD immediately or the sender. Your parcel may be returned to sender or held pending redelivery.
9
INTERNATIONAL
Parcel held in customs
It applies to international shipments held for inspection or duties. Action: Contact DPD to pay any customs fees due. Delays of 2 to 5 business days are typical.
10
PICKUP POINT
Ready for collection
Means your parcel arrived at a DPD pickup point (parcel shop or locker) and is waiting for you. Action: Collect within the timeframe shown (typically 5 to 10 business days before it's returned).
What to Do If Your Parcel Is Stuck
If your DPD parcel has not been shipped for more than 2 business days, check the tracking status and contact DPD if the delay continues.
Check the Tracking Status
Read the full tracking message to find the reason for the delay. A status such as “Sorted by distribution centre” may be normal, while “Parcel retained pending customs clearance” indicates a problem.
Wait Another 24 Hours
If no specific delay is shown, allow another 24 hours. Busy periods such as Black Friday, Christmas, and Easter can cause temporary processing delays.
Contact DPD After 3 Business Days
If your parcel still has not moved after 3 business days, contact DPD with your tracking number. Explain when the parcel was last scanned and ask for an update.
Request a Manual Check
Ask the DPD agent to check the parcel's current location and identify any issue preventing delivery.
Keep Records for Valuable Parcels
Save your tracking details and notes from any DPD conversations. If the parcel remains undelivered beyond the expected delivery period, ask DPD about the available compensation or claims process.
Common reasons for distribution centre delays:
Most delays resolve within 48 hours of being flagged. Staying calm and providing DPD with accurate information speeds up resolution.
How Does DPD International Customs Clearance Work?
DPD tracking Europe parcels may need customs clearance, documents, and payment of duties or taxes before delivery. Knowing the customs process can help prevent delays, unexpected charges, and returned parcels.
Which Shipments Require Customs Clearance?
NON-EU EUROPEAN DESTINATIONS
Parcels sent from the UK to destinations outside the UK may require customs procedures, depending on the destination and current trade rules. This includes many international shipments to countries in Europe and other regions.
Pro tip: Shipments to destinations such as the USA, Asia, Australia, and Africa may also require customs clearance. Requirements can vary by destination, so check DPD's current guidance for the country you're sending to before shipping.

What Items Are Restricted or Prohibited by DPD?
Some items cannot be shipped internationally via DPD. Prohibited items include:
Hazardous materials
(chemicals, explosives, flammables)
Certain electronics
(items with lithium batteries have restrictions)
Liquids
exceeding small sample quantities
Food products
(except packaged goods; rules vary by destination)
Prescription medications
(controlled substances)
Weapons
knives, or offensive items
Counterfeit goods
Perishable items
without special packaging (e.g., unrefrigerated meat)
Which DPD tracking UK items require special permits?
Before shipping internationally, verify your item is not restricted to the destination. DPD's website lists country-specific prohibitions, or contact DPD directly.
What to Tell Your International Recipient
Tell the recipient about possible customs delays, charges, and delivery requirements before you send the parcel.
Inform them:
- Customs delays: While the package is being examined, customs may hold it for two to five business days.
- Duties and taxes: The recipient may receive a customs invoice and may need to pay duties or taxes before the parcel can be delivered or collected.
- Proof of value: Keep the invoice or receipt available in case customs asks for proof of the parcel’s value.
- Refused or uncollected parcels: If the recipient refuses the parcel or does not collect it, it may be returned to you, and return costs may apply.
Clear communication helps prevent customs delays, unexpected charges, and delivery problems.
How to Contact DPD About a Missing or Delayed Parcel
DPD offers multiple contact channels, each with different response times depending on urgency. Choose the right method below: Live chat for instant answers, phone for urgent issues, or email for formal compensation claims that need documentation.
| Method | Contact Details | Hours | Response | Best For |
| Live Chat | Click "Chat" on track.dpd.co.uk | Business hours | Instant | Quick questions, tracking map help |
| Phone (UK) | 0844 800 4466 | Mon-Fri: 8am-8pm, Sat: 9am-5pm | Within some minutes | Urgent issues, same-day delivery |
| Phone (Ireland) | +353 1 844 4400 | Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm | Within some minutes | Irish deliveries, local tracking |
| Online Form | dpd.co.uk/contact | 24/7 | 24 hours | Written record |
| feedback@dpd.co.uk | 24/7 | 5 working days | Compensation claims, formal issues | |
| Social Media | @DPD_UK (Twitter), Facebook | 24/7 | 1-4 hours | Public complaints, follow-ups |
Before Contacting DPD, You Must Be Ready
- Tracking number (12-14 digits) example: 05123456789123
- Order reference number or shipping number
- Full delivery address used
- Parcel dispatch and expected delivery dates
- Photos of damage or missing items (if applicable)
- Proof of item value (receipt, invoice, order confirmation)
- Service type used (Standard, Express, Gold, or Courier)
Conclusion
DPD tracking makes it easy to follow your parcel, understand its status, and know when to act. Short tracking delays can happen because of scanning issues, busy periods, weather, or customs. If your parcel has not moved for around 3 business days, contact DPD with your tracking number and request an update.
For international deliveries, check customs requirements and possible duties. Keep your tracking details and proof of purchase if you need to report a missing, damaged, or delayed parcel.


