DHL Express is the world's leading international courier and logistics network, delivering to over 220 countries and territories across all continents. Part of Deutsche Post DHL Group, DHL Express was founded in 1969 by Adrian Dalsey, Larry Hillblom, and Robert Lynn and is today headquartered in Bonn, Germany. The service is trusted by logistics managers, e-commerce businesses, and individual shippers worldwide for time-definite international deliveries. For tracking and support, visit https://www.DHL.com or reach the global DHL network through country-specific contact pages.
Track DHL Package
DHL Express offers global shipping and tracking solutions, emphasizing speed, reliability, and extensive international coverage.
How DHL shipment updates work
Key facts about DHL
DHL Express operates one
DHL Express operates one of the world's largest international courier networks covering 220+ countries.
Tracking updates occur at
Tracking updates occur at every DHL facility scan, typically every 2-4 hours for express services.
DHL Express 10-digit waybill
DHL Express 10-digit waybill numbers are the primary tracking format.
JD-prefix barcode
JD-prefix barcode numbers (18 chars) are the secondary DHL tracking format on parcel labels.
What each DHL status actually means
Use the last visible scan to decide whether to wait, track more closely, or escalate.
| Status | What it means | What to do next |
|---|---|---|
| Shipment Picked Up | DHL has collected the package from the sender. | Monitor the next scan event. |
| In Transit | The shipment is moving between DHL facilities or airports. | Monitor the next scan event. |
| Clearance Event | The shipment is undergoing customs inspection and clearance. | Monitor the next scan event. |
| Customs Status Updated | Customs has processed the package (clearance complete or hold). | Monitor the next scan event. |
| With Delivery Courier | A DHL driver has the package and is delivering it today. | Monitor the next scan event. |
| Delivered | The package was successfully delivered. | Monitor the next scan event. |
Which DHL tracking number format do you have?
Identify your tracking number type before entering it into the search box above.
Waybill number
123456789010 digits - the main customer-facing reference
JD-prefix barcode
JD014600006241547393"JD" + 18 digits -
How to track a DHL shipment
Follow these steps to get real-time status on any DHL shipment.
Find your DHL tracking number in the confirmation email or on your shipment receipt
Find your DHL tracking number in the confirmation email or on your shipment receipt.
Open https://www.dhl.com/en/express/tracking.html
Go to https://www.dhl.com/en/express/tracking.html.
Enter the 10-digit waybill or JD-prefix barcode
Enter the 10-digit waybill or JD-prefix barcode.
Review the real-time status, shipment events, and estimated delivery date
Review the real-time status, shipment events, and estimated delivery date.
Sign up for email or SMS notifications via the DHL MyDHL+ portal
Sign up for email or SMS notifications via the DHL MyDHL+ portal.
Why DHL scans stall and what to do
Expand each issue for the cause, what to do, and when to call DHL directly.
Customs hold
Cause
Provide required documentation (commercial invoice, HS code) through the DHL On De
What to do
Allow 24 hours after shipment.
Escalate when
Contact DHL to arrange re-delivery.
Which DHL service fits this shipment?
Compare DHL service tiers and their typical delivery windows side by side.
Service options
DHL Express Worldwide
International delivery in 1-3 business days to 220+ countries
Everyday shipping 1-3 days
DHL Express 12:00
Delivery by noon on the next possible business day (key lanes)
Everyday shipping 1 day
DHL Express 9:00
Next business day delivery by 9:00 AM to major cities
Everyday shipping 1 day
DHL Economy Select
2-5 business day European door-to-door service
Everyday shipping 2-5 days
DHL eCommerce
Cross-border parcel solutions for online retailers
Everyday shipping 5-12 days
DHL delivery windows by service
DHL Express Worldwide
1-3 business days
1-3 business days (varies by origin/destination)
DHL Express 12:00
international
1 business day
Next business day by noon on key international lanes
DHL Express 9:00
1 business day
Next business day by 9:00 AM on select lanes
DHL Economy Select
domestic
2-5 business days
2-5 business days within Europe
DHL eCommerce
international
5-12 business days
5-12 business days for cross-border e-commerce parcels
Common questions about DHL shipments
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about DHL tracking and delivery.
01 How do I track a DHL Express shipment?
Go to dhl.com and enter your 10-digit waybill or JD-prefix tracking number. Real-time status and scan history are displayed.
02 What is a DHL 'Clearance Event'?
A clearance event means your shipment is in customs. This is normal for international shipments and usually resolves within 1-2 business days. If additional documentation is needed, DHL will contact you.
03 How do I change my DHL delivery address?
Use DHL On Demand Delivery (dhl.com/odd) to redirect your shipment to a different address, DHL Service Point, or request a hold.
04 What does 'Shipment on Hold' mean?
It means DHL has paused delivery, typically due to a customs issue, incomplete address, or recipient request. Check your email for DHL instructions.
05 How long does DHL Express delivery take?
DHL Express Worldwide typically delivers in 1-3 business days internationally, depending on origin and destination. Customs clearance time is not included.
06 Does DHL deliver on weekends?
DHL Express delivers on Saturdays in many markets. Weekend service availability depends on your country. Check DHL's website for local delivery days.
More DHL help guides
Need direct help from DHL?
If the latest scan still does not make sense, contact DHL directly with your tracking number ready.
What to know about DHL
DHL was founded in 1969 and acquired by Deutsche Post in 2002. Today DHL Express is the express division of Deutsche Post DHL Group, which employs over 600,000 people worldwide. DHL Express operates one of the largest cargo airline fleets, with its own aircraft operating through multiple subsidiary airlines including DHL Air UK, DHL Aero Expreso, and partners. DHL's global superhub in Leipzig, Germany, processes up to 300,000 parcels per hour. The company handles over 1.8 billion shipments per year across all divisions.
- Official site
- https://www.dhl.com/global-en/home.html
- Track packages
- https://www.dhl.com/global-en/home/tracking.html
- Support portal
- Open support →
- Network type
- Private Courier
- Country
- DE
- Region
- Germany (global headquarters); worldwide operations in 220+ countries and territories
- Coverage
- DHL Express delivers to 220+ countries and territories, making it one of the most globally connected courier networks. DHL operates its own stations in all major markets and uses partner last-mile networks in smaller countries. Major hub airports include Leipzig (Germany), Cincinnati (US), Hong Kong, and Singapore. DHL has particularly strong coverage in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
- Last verified
- Apr 1, 2026
Referenced sources