Track & Trace Help
Real-time shipment tracking is one of DHL Express's core services. This page explains how our tracking system works, what each status update means, and steps to take if your tracking is not updating as expected.
How to Track Your Shipment
Get Your Tracking Number
Your tracking number is provided by DHL or your sender at the time of booking. It is printed on the waybill label and included in your booking confirmation email.
Enter It on the Tracking Page
Go to the DHL Express home page and enter the full tracking number in the tracking search bar. Numbers are not case-sensitive.
View Live Updates
Once found, you will see the complete shipment journey, current location, estimated delivery date, and a full status history timeline.
Tracking Number Formats
DHL Express tracking numbers follow a standardised format. The system accepts both alphabetic and numeric formats depending on the service type used.
1234567890DHL Express Waybill
10-digit numeric waybill number
JKBE123456789DHL Express Alphanumeric
Letter prefix followed by digits
JVGL000000000000DHL eCommerce
Starts with JV or similar letter combinations
What Each Status Means
Shipment Created
Your shipment has been registered and a tracking label has been issued. The parcel has not yet been collected.
Picked Up
A DHL courier has collected the parcel from the sender. It is on its way to the first sorting facility.
Sorted at Facility
Your shipment has arrived at a DHL gateway or sorting hub. It is being processed for the next leg of transport.
In Transit
The shipment is actively moving between facilities, by air, road, or sea. This may last several hours or days depending on the route.
Out for Delivery
A local DHL courier has the package and is on the way to the delivery address. Expect delivery today.
Delivered
The shipment has been successfully delivered. If you did not receive it, contact DHL customer service immediately.
Exception
An issue has been raised with this shipment - it may be a customs hold, failed delivery attempt, or address problem. Check the full tracking history for details.
Common Tracking Issues
Q. My tracking number shows no results
Tracking data can take up to 2-4 hours to appear in the system after a label is created. If it has been more than 24 hours, contact your sender to confirm the tracking number.
Q. Tracking has not updated in over 24 hours
International shipments sometimes go through extended transit periods with no scan, particularly on long-haul air freight legs. This is normal. If it exceeds 5 business days with no update, please raise a trace request.
Q. The tracking shows "Delivered" but I did not receive it
Check around your delivery address, with neighbours, or at a secure location used by the courier. If still not found, contact DHL customer service immediately with your tracking number to open an investigation.
Q. Tracking shows "Exception" or "Customs Hold"
This usually means the shipment requires documentation, duties payment, or a regulatory inspection. DHL will normally contact the recipient or sender with specific instructions. Respond promptly to avoid delays.
Need Further Assistance?
DHL Express customer service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for urgent shipment queries.