International shipping times vary widely depending on the destination, courier, shipping method, and customs processes. On average, standard international shipping takes anywhere from 5 to 15 business days. Express services can reduce that time to as little as 1 to 5 business days. Delivery speed also depends on factors like global holidays, customs clearance, and the specific origin and destination of the parcel. Some couriers offer economy services that take longer but are more affordable, while others prioritise speed for urgent deliveries.
How long does FedEx take to ship a package internationally?
FedEx offers several international services, and delivery times depend on the service you choose. FedEx International Priority typically delivers within 1 to 3 business days to most major cities worldwide. FedEx International Economy is a slower option, usually taking 4 to 6 business days. These timelines may vary based on customs procedures and local delivery conditions in the destination country. FedEx also provides real-time tracking so you can monitor progress at each stage.
How long does ePost take to deliver internationally
ePost, typically associated with national postal services, is slower compared to major express couriers. International delivery through ePost often takes 7 to 20 business days, depending on the destination and whether economy or priority shipping is selected. Delivery can be further delayed due to customs checks or handling by local postal networks once the parcel arrives in the destination country. While it's a budget-friendly option, it lacks the speed and advanced tracking features of premium services.
Which is the fastest company to deliver internationally
For speed, DHL Express is often considered the fastest option for international shipping. In many cases, DHL can deliver door-to-door in just 1 to 2 business days to major global cities. FedEx and UPS also offer rapid international delivery, but DHL generally has the edge due to its strong global network, especially in Europe and Asia. While speed is important, availability and customs efficiency in the destination country also influence total delivery time.
How long does DHL take to deliver internationally
DHL Express typically delivers international parcels in 1 to 4 business days, depending on the destination. Major urban areas benefit from the quickest delivery windows, sometimes even next-day. DHL also provides strong customer support, detailed tracking, and reliable customs clearance processes, which can help avoid unexpected delays. Standard services from DHL, like DHL Packet or eCommerce solutions, take longer — usually 7 to 14 business days — and are best suited for less urgent shipments.
What factors affect international shipping times?
Several key factors can slow down or speed up international shipping. Customs clearance is a major one — if your package is held for inspection or paperwork issues, it can add days to the delivery time. Public holidays in the origin or destination country can also delay transit. The shipping method matters too: air freight is faster but more expensive, while sea freight can take several weeks. Courier backlogs, bad weather, and strikes in postal systems can also cause unexpected delays.
Is tracking available for all international deliveries?
Most major couriers offer end-to-end tracking for international shipments, especially with express services. You can usually see when your parcel leaves the country, clears customs, and reaches the local delivery network. However, economy shipping or national postal services may offer only limited tracking, with updates sometimes stopping after the package leaves the origin country. This lack of visibility can be frustrating if the delivery takes longer than expected.
What’s the difference between express and economy international shipping?
Express shipping is fast, reliable, and includes detailed tracking. It’s ideal for urgent or high-value items, and delivery is usually completed within 1 to 5 business days. Economy shipping is much slower, taking 7 to 21 business days or more. It’s more affordable but comes with less tracking and a higher chance of delays due to longer customs handling and less priority in transit. Choosing between the two depends on how quickly you need your parcel and how much you're willing to spend.
What can I do to avoid delays?
Providing accurate shipping information and proper documentation is the best way to prevent delays. Ensure the recipient’s address is correct and complete, including postal codes and phone numbers. For certain items, like electronics, cosmetics, or food, customs declarations may be required, and incomplete forms can hold up your shipment. If you're shipping commercially, providing invoices or proof of value can speed up customs processing. It’s also smart to check if the destination country has any restrictions on your item.
Summary
International shipping times depend heavily on the courier, delivery method, and destination. Express services like DHL and FedEx International Priority are the fastest, often delivering in just a few days. ePost and other postal networks take longer, especially when customs and local handling come into play. Whether you prioritise speed, budget, or tracking, choosing the right courier can make all the difference in getting your package delivered smoothly and on time.