Is DHL Tracking Accurate? (All You Need to Know)

Waiting for your package to arrive can be a long and sometimes stressful process. This is made worse when you don’t get any tracking updates or when you don’t understand the path your package is taking. 

When things like this happen, it’s normal to wonder whether you can rely on tracking updates. In this article, I’m focusing specifically on DHL’s tracking to see if it can be trusted. Keep reading to learn more!

Is DHL Tracking Accurate in 2024?

Overall, DHL tracking is accurate in 2024. In general, DHL’s tracking information starts updating 24 to 48 hours after the tracking number has been created. After this, each successive tracking update comes in near-real-time. That means you can see updated location information within a couple of minutes of a package getting scanned. 

To get more information about how DHL’s tracking works and what to do when problems arise, then make sure to keep reading this article!

Can You Track Real Time With DHL?

When shipping with DHL Express, you can get real-time details about your package’s progress by using the online tracking tool or via the DHL mobile app. 

Here, real-time is a relative term. Under normal circumstances, it will take a few minutes after a package is scanned to see its updated location. 

As well, selected shipments are eligible for DHL’s live tracking service. This tool allows you to track your shipment on a live map. 

Next, you’ll receive a 90-minute timeframe during which a DHL courier will arrive at your door and information about how far away the courier is.

Additionally, DHL uses this tool to keep you updated on any changes or delays. 

How Long Does DHL Take to Show Tracking?

DHL tracking events usually appear 24 to 48 hours after a tracking number has been created. 

Usually, this is the amount of time it takes for a shipment to reach a DHL facility and receive a scan. 

How Long Does It Take DHL to Update Tracking?

As long as things are working correctly, it only takes a few minutes for DHL to update tracking information after each status check. 

This update is generated after packages are scanned with an electronic device, either at a DHL facility or in the field. 

Does DHL Not Update Tracking?

Unless something goes wrong with DHL’s tracking software, the company does a good job of updating tracking information. 

That said, there is one situation in which it’s very common for tracking information not to get updated. 

This happens if you’re using a service that involves DHL handing off your package to a local mail carrier in the destination country. 

When you choose this option, it may appear as though your tracking information isn’t getting updated. 

That’s because DHL tracking will end or “freeze” once that handoff has occurred. However, that doesn’t mean that you can no longer track your package. 

Rather, you can get a tracking number for your local postal provider by going to the DHL website and locating the field “Delivery by postal provider” on the right-hand side of the screen. 

Enter this number into the tracking platform of your local postal provider for continued updates about the location of your item. 

Why Isn’t My DHL Tracking Information Updating? 

DHL tracking updates come at different intervals depending on the selected service. 

For example, DHL Express usually shows tracking updates daily. 

So, if you haven’t seen any updates in more than a day, contact DHL customer service at 1-800-209-1345 for more information. 

On the other hand, if your package is being sent through DHL eCommerce, then tracking updates only occur when the package is processed at a transit hub or reaches its destination. 

There are often long distances between these destinations. 

As such, it may seem as though your tracking information isn’t updating, when in reality, your package is simply in transit between two hubs. 

How Accurate Is DHL’s Estimated Delivery Date? 

Perhaps one of the most important parts of the tracking process is the estimated delivery date. Therefore, it’s normal to wonder whether DHL’s estimation is accurate. 

According to past DHL customers, this date can usually be trusted. 

Indeed, most reported receiving their package on the expected date, with some receiving it a day earlier than expected. 

To know more, you can also read our posts on DHL says delivered but no package, DHL package is not moving, and how you can pay DHL duties.

Conclusion 

DHL’s tracking information is a reliable resource for customers waiting for their packages. Not only do tracking updates appear a day or two after the tracking number is created, but successive scans usually show up within a few minutes. 

In the rare cases where tracking information is delayed or has stopped altogether, it’s easy to contact DHL for more information.