International package tracking is fragmented because shipments hand off between 2-3 different couriers (origin country → cargo airline → destination courier). Each system shows only its leg.
Most international packages from AliExpress, Temu, Shein: Track through Cainiao Global (global.cainiao.com) — Alibaba's logistics network. They show the full journey including ocean/air carrier + destination courier.
Packages from US-based eBay sellers shipping internationally: Track through USPS first (origin). Once it hands off to international carrier, USPS shows "Origin Post is Preparing Shipment" but does nothing. Switch to the destination country's national post tracker.
Packages from UK Royal Mail: Track at royalmail.com/track-your-item until USPS picks up the international leg. Then track via USPS using the same tracking number.
Packages from DHL Express international: Single tracking number works end-to-end on dhl.com — DHL operates its own fleet.
Why packages show "delivered" then aren't:
1. Tracking transitions don't update. When a package hands off from origin carrier to destination, both systems mark "delivered" in their database (meaning delivered to next carrier, not customer).
2. Local courier scans aren't real-time. Some destination couriers don't scan until end-of-day batch.
3. Sub-contractor delivery. Many "FedEx delivered" packages were actually handed to local USPS for final mile — FedEx's system shows delivered, but USPS hasn't scanned yet.
Universal tracking tools that work across multiple carriers:
- Parcels App — best free universal tracker
- Wikishopline Tools Track — paste any tracking number, auto-detects carrier
For Shein, Temu, AliExpress orders specifically:
- Most ship from China via SF Express, Yanwen, or YunExpress
- Allow 14-21 days for delivery
- Tracking often goes silent for 5-7 days during ocean/air transit
- "Out for delivery" can mean within 24 hours (Yanwen) or within 7 days (some discount couriers)
If a package is genuinely lost:
- Wait 14 days past expected delivery before filing a claim
- File with the SELLER first (eBay, Amazon, AliExpress all have buyer protection)
- Then file with shipping carrier
- Credit card chargeback is your last resort (works in 80%+ of cases for items under $300)