> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.simplisent.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Tracking International Shipments

> How to track international shipments, customs clearance, and delivery statuses

International shipments involve more steps than domestic deliveries. Tracking updates may look different depending on the carrier and destination country.

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## How It Works

* **Tracking numbers** - every international label includes a tracking number valid across borders
* **Customs checkpoints** - shipments show additional scans when entering or exiting customs, which can add 1-5 days
* **Delivery partners** - some carriers (e.g., USPS) hand off to local postal services in the destination country; tracking may switch to the local system

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## Common Statuses

| Status                         | Meaning                                                      |
| ------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------ |
| **Inbound into Customs**       | Arrived in the destination country, awaiting clearance       |
| **Customs Clearance Complete** | Cleared customs, moving toward delivery                      |
| **Awaiting Recipient Action**  | Recipient must provide payment or documents for duties/taxes |
| **Delivered**                  | Package handed to recipient or local postal service          |

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## Tips

* Use the carrier's tracking portal for the most up-to-date information
* Expect customs checkpoints to temporarily pause tracking updates
* Share tracking numbers with customers so they can check progress
* For high-value shipments, use [DDP (Delivered Duty Paid)](/compliance/shipping-terms#incoterms) so recipients don't face surprise charges
* Let customers know that international tracking may be slower than domestic

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## Related

* [Create International Orders](/customs/create-international-orders) - how to create international shipments
* [Shipment Customs](/customs/shipment-customs) - customs fields including Incoterms (DAP/DDP)
* [Shipping Insurance](/compliance/shipping-insurance) - protect international shipments against loss or damage