How to track a DHL Express shipment?

1. Online DHL Express shipment tracking

The most common and straightforward way on how to track your package with DHL Express is through the online tracking tool. It's designed for simplicity and speed, requiring only one piece of information: your DHL Express 10-digit tracking number. That means you don't need a user account or a password, but only your valid waybill number given to you by our team upon shipping. This method is ideal for quick checks on a single package. Whether it's a gift to a family member or a document for a business deal, knowing how to track a DHL Express parcel online ensures you're always in the loop.

To use the online tracking tool, simply visit the DHL Express website and enter your tracking number into the designated field. With a single click, you will receive real-time updates on your parcel's journey.

The information displayed is comprehensive, showing key details such as the timestamps of each scan, the current location of your package, and a confirmation of delivery once it reaches its destination. The system even provides an estimated delivery date and time, so you know when to expect your package. Furthermore, you can view important key information, such as the name of the person who signed for the package, providing solid proof that your package was delivered successfully.

2. Tracking with a shipper’s reference

For businesses and frequent shippers, another way on how you can track your DHL Express parcel is by using a shipper’s reference, which is a personalized code you can assign to your shipments. This unique identifier can be the purchase order number or customer ID.

Using a shipper’s reference offers an efficient way to manage multiple orders at once, especially for businesses with high volumes of international shipments. Instead of keeping track of dozens of waybill numbers, you can search using your own familiar reference. Simply enter your reference number and use filters like the date range and destination to narrow down the results and quickly find the specific package you're looking for.

3. Using DHL ProView® for advanced monitoring

To gain a higher level of visibility and control, DHL Express account holders can use DHL ProView®. This advanced, automated tracking solution enables you to monitor all shipment activities from multiple DHL accounts in a single, intuitive dashboard.

Signing up is easy if you already have your MyDHL+ account. Once your account is set up, you can activate DHL ProView® and customize your preferences. The tool allows you to set up automatic alerts for all eight stages of the shipment journey to an assigned email. Additionally, the system allows you to select when to receive these alerts, either immediately or at a specific time of day.

You can receive a notification when a parcel is picked up, when it's in transit, when it's delayed at customs clearance, or when it has been successfully delivered. This proactive approach means you no longer have to manually check our website to know your package’s status.

4. Getting proof of delivery (POD)

For important or high-value deliveries, having proof that a package was successfully delivered is essential. When you track your package delivered via DHL Express online, the system will display the delivery confirmation, which includes delivery details and an image of the recipient's signature. This electronic POD is a secure and reliable way to verify that your package has arrived at its destination.

You can easily view and download a copy of the POD from the tracking page via your MyDHL+ account. For businesses or individuals managing multiple shipments, you can retrieve PODs for up to 25 waybills at once, streamlining your record-keeping process.

What to expect during the tracking journey?

To ensure a seamless experience, having a clear understanding of the tracking journey is key.

How to find your DHL Express tracking number?

A tracking number, also known as a waybill number, is a unique 10-digit code of numbers and letters assigned to your shipment for both national and international tracking.

For shippers, the waybill is typically attached to the outside of the package, making it easy for anyone handling the shipment to access important details. As for recipients, the sender will provide the tracking number or ID. If you've ordered something online, this number is often included in the confirmation email or a separate shipping notification. In case you cannot find this information, contact the sender directly for these details.

How to know the estimated delivery time?

Once the package has been handed over to DHL Express, the system will generate an estimated delivery date. This estimate is calculated based on the information provided on your waybill and the destination address, as well as taking public holidays into account.

Additionally, all estimates are subject to the availability of customs clearance and airline space. For the most up-to-date information, use DHL Express tracking tools to see real-time updates and any changes to your parcel's estimated delivery.

What if I am not home when delivery arrives?

If your parcel requires a signature but no one is available at the delivery address, the DHL Express courier will leave a Not Home Card. For added convenience, we’ll also send a notification to your mobile number or email if the sender has provided it.

Both the card and notification will direct you to our On-Demand Delivery (ODD) service, where you can track and manage your delivery with a range of flexible options:

• Leave in a safe place: You can authorize the courier to leave the parcel at the door or in a secure location at your property without the need for your signature.
• Leave with a neighbor: Have your parcel delivered to a trusted neighbor instead.
• Collect from a DHL Service Point: Redirect your parcel to a nearby DHL Service Point for convenient pickup.
• Change delivery day: Reschedule the delivery to a day that works better for you, as long as it is within 7 days of your original delivery date.
• Deliver to a different address: You can have your package redirected to your office, friend, or another address on a date that is convenient for you.
• 30-day vacation hold: If you're on vacation, we can hold your delivery for up to 30 days. Just let us know a new date and time that works for you.

How to enable delivery notifications?

For recipients, you can stay informed on the day of the package delivery with notifications. You have the option to receive a "You're next" alert, which is sent when the courier is just one stop away, which is typically within 5-15 minutes of your delivery.

For senders, you can receive email updates throughout your shipment's journey based on your preferences. You can choose to be notified of events, from dispatch to final delivery, either instantly or at a specific time each day. 

To enable these notifications, simply use the DHL ProView® tool within MyDHL+ and follow these simple steps:

1. Access DHL ProView®: Navigate to the "Track" option in the top menu and select "Monitoring and Notifications."
2. Add account to DHL ProView®: Click "Manage Account" on the left sidebar, enter your account and PIN numbers, then click "Add."
3. Set up notification: Click "Manage Contact" to add contacts who should receive updates. You can enable the option to add multiple contacts for your shipments.
4. Set up event notification for contacts: Under "Manage Notifications," you can specify which shipping events, such as "Picked Up," will trigger an alert.

Your package and peace of mind delivered

Navigating the world of international shipping can be complex, but with DHL Express, your shipping journey doesn't have to be. DHL Express’ online tracking solutions are transparent, flexible, and easy to use, providing you with everything you need to stay in control and gain peace of mind. 

Open a business account today to unlock more powerful tracking features as well as international shipping and customs clearance services that can help your business thrive.