Departed From Airport Of Origin: What You Need to Know

When you’re eagerly awaiting the arrival of an international package, tracking updates can become a source of both excitement and confusion.

One status that often raises questions is “departed from airport of origin.” What exactly does it mean, and what should you expect next?

This status signals a crucial step in your package’s journey, but the details behind it aren’t always clear. In this guide, we’ll break down what happens after your package departs from the origin airport, what potential delays could arise, and how long it typically takes for your item to arrive.

By understanding the full process, you’ll be better equipped to track your package with confidence and know when it’s likely to land at your doorstep.

What Does “Departed From Airport Of Origin” Mean?

When you see the status “departed from airport of origin” in your tracking updates, it means that your package has left the original airport from the country it was shipped from.

This status is primarily associated with international shipments, where items are flown from the origin country to the destination country via cargo airplanes.

At this point, your package is on its way to the destination, either directly or with a layover at another airport.

Once it arrives, it will go through customs clearance and inspection to ensure all the necessary documentation and legal requirements are met. From there, the package will continue to the final delivery address.

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What Happens Before Your Package Reaches This Status?

Before your package reaches the “departed from airport of origin” status, it goes through a few essential stages that ensure it’s prepared for international transit. Each of these steps is crucial to make sure the package is correctly handled and documented for shipping across borders.

Here’s a breakdown of the process:

1. Order Processing: Once the order is placed, the seller or shipper processes it, including packaging the item securely for shipping.
2. Pickup by Courier: After processing, the courier service picks up the package from the sender’s location or warehouse. The package then enters the courier’s network.
3. Sorting at Local Facility: The package is sent to a local sorting facility, where it is scanned and sorted according to its destination. At this point, the tracking information is usually updated to reflect that the package is in the process of leaving its initial location.
4. Transport to International Airport: The package is then moved to the origin airport, ready to be loaded onto an international flight. This stage involves further sorting and may include waiting for available cargo space on the next scheduled flight.
5. Customs Export Clearance: Before the package leaves the country of origin, it may need to pass through customs export clearance. This process ensures that the package complies with local export regulations, including any required duties, taxes, or paperwork. The customs clearance process on the sender’s side is usually quicker and more streamlined than import customs clearance on the destination side.

Once these steps are completed, the tracking status will update to “departed from airport of origin,” indicating that the package has officially left the origin country and is now en route to its destination.

What Happens After “Departed From Airport Of Origin”?

Once your package leaves the origin airport, it typically takes 1-2 weeks to update the status again, though this can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Customs Clearance: Your package will undergo a review by customs authorities in the destination country. They will check the documentation (e.g., invoices, duties, and tax receipts) and inspect the package to ensure it complies with local laws. If any issues arise, such as incomplete paperwork or suspicious contents, the package could be held up for further inspection.
• Transit and Sorting: Your package may not travel directly to its destination. It might pass through sorting hubs or have layovers at different airports along the way. Each step could contribute to the overall transit time.
• Delays Due to Flight or Logistics: Sometimes, your package’s journey can be delayed by cargo plane issues, logistical challenges, or even weather disruptions.

Once customs clearance is complete, the package will be handed over to the local courier service for the final leg of delivery. From there, it’s typically just a matter of days before it arrives at your door.

How Long Does It Take After “Departed From Airport Of Origin”?

Once your package shows the status “departed from airport of origin,” it’s officially on its way to the destination country.

However, the time it takes to get from the origin to your doorstep can vary based on several factors like the distance between countries, the shipping service used, customs clearance, and possible delays in transit.

On average, packages typically arrive within 2-5 weeks after leaving the origin country. Here’s a breakdown of the key stages your package goes through after departing from the origin airport:

What To Do If the Status is Stuck on “Departed From Airport Of Origin”?

It’s not uncommon for the tracking status to remain stuck on “departed from airport of origin” for an extended period, and there are a few common reasons for this:

• Customs Delays: The customs clearance process can sometimes take longer than expected, especially if there is a high volume of packages to process or if authorities are conducting a thorough inspection.
• Missed Scans or Tracking Glitches: The courier’s tracking system may not update in real time, leading to incorrect or delayed information. This can happen due to a technical glitch or because your package wasn’t scanned at each step of its journey.
• Layovers or Sorting Delays: International packages may go through multiple airports and sorting centers before reaching their destination. Any delay in this process can cause your tracking information to remain stuck on the same status for a longer time than anticipated.

If your tracking status hasn’t changed for more than two weeks, it’s a good idea to contact the courier service for an update on your package.

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How Long Does Customs Clearance Take?

Once your package arrives in the destination country, it must go through customs clearance. This process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on:

• The workload at the customs facility.
• The accuracy and completeness of your package’s documentation.
• Whether your package is flagged for further inspection.

In most cases, customs clearance is completed within 24 to 48 hours, but in rare instances, it may take longer if there are any irregularities.

Common Reasons for Delays After a Package Has Departed?

After your package has reached the “departed from airport of origin” status, it’s natural to expect a smooth journey to the destination. However, several factors can cause delays, even after the package has left the origin country.

These delays are typically beyond the control of the sender or recipient and often relate to logistical issues or customs clearance. Here are the most common reasons for delays after departure:

1. Customs Clearance Delays

Once your package arrives in the destination country, it must go through customs clearance. This process involves checking the package’s contents, verifying the accompanying documentation, and ensuring all duties and taxes are paid. Delays can occur if:

• Incomplete or missing documentation (e.g., invoices, tax receipts).
• The package contains suspicious or prohibited items, requiring further inspection.
• Customs officials are experiencing a high volume of packages, leading to backlogs.

2. Transit and Layovers

International shipments often don’t take a direct route to their destination. Your package may stop at various sorting hubs or undergo layovers at intermediate airports. These stops can result in delays, especially if there are:

• Flight schedule disruptions due to bad weather or operational issues.
• Delays at a sorting hub, where packages are processed before continuing to the final destination.
• Backlogs at intermediate airports, causing packages to miss connecting flights.

3. Missed Scans or Tracking Updates

Occasionally, a package may not be scanned properly during transit, causing the tracking information to remain stagnant. This doesn’t necessarily mean your package isn’t moving—it just may not be reflected in the system. Common causes include:

• A missed scan at a sorting facility or transit hub.
• Technical glitches in the courier’s tracking system.
• Delays in updating the tracking information in real time.

4. Flight and Cargo Plane Delays

Your package relies on cargo flights to transport it internationally. Flight delays can occur due to:

• Adverse weather conditions such as storms or hurricanes.
• Technical issues with the aircraft, causing flight cancellations or delays.
• Airport congestion at either the origin or destination airport, leading to operational slowdowns.

5. Logistical or Operational Issues

Couriers face a variety of logistical challenges that can impact the speed of delivery. These issues can include:

• Staffing shortages or strikes at the courier company or airport.
• Transportation disruptions due to road or air traffic control issues.
• Internal delays within the courier’s sorting system, especially during peak seasons like holidays.

6. Customs Backlogs in the Destination Country

When packages reach the destination country, they go through customs clearance. If the customs facility is facing a high volume of incoming shipments, there may be backlogs that slow down the clearance process. This is particularly common during peak shipping seasons, such as holidays or sales events.

7. Suspicion of Prohibited Goods

If customs officials suspect that a package contains restricted or prohibited goods, they may hold the package for further inspection.

This additional screening process can add several days or even weeks to the overall delivery time, as authorities verify the contents and ensure they meet the destination country’s import regulations.

How Does Customs Clearance Impact the Delivery Time of a Package?

Customs clearance is a critical stage in the international shipping process. It involves the examination of your package to ensure that it meets all regulatory requirements. Factors such as missing documentation, duties and taxes not being paid, or suspicious contents can lead to delays.

Here’s how customs clearance can affect the delivery time:

Can I Track My Package During the Transit Phase After It Has Departed?

Yes, you can track your package throughout its journey, including during the transit phase after it has departed from the airport of origin.

Most couriers provide real-time tracking updates, though keep in mind that there may be gaps in updates, particularly during long international transits or layovers.

Some key tracking updates you might see include:

• In Transit: This means the package is moving between locations, whether through sorting hubs, layovers, or being loaded onto the next flight.
• Arrived at Sorting Facility: Your package has arrived at a facility where it will be sorted for the next phase of its journey.
• Arrived at Destination Country: This status indicates that your package has landed in the destination country and is likely heading to customs for clearance.
• Out for Delivery: The package has cleared customs and is now being delivered to the recipient.

If there’s a delay or if the tracking information remains unchanged for more than two weeks, it’s a good idea to contact the courier for an update.

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Shipping Options Comparison

Not all shipping services are created equal, and the delivery times can vary depending on the type of service you choose. Below is a comparison of typical shipping options for international deliveries and their estimated timeframes.

Choosing the right option depends on how quickly you need your package and how much you’re willing to spend.

How Does “Departed From Airport of Origin” Differ for Various Types of Shipments?

The status “departed from airport of origin” can mean slightly different things depending on the type of shipment. Let’s break down the difference for various shipment types:

• Standard International Shipments: In these cases, this status simply indicates that the package has left the origin airport and is in transit. The delivery time is typically 2-5 weeks, and the package may go through multiple layovers and sorting hubs.
• Express Shipments: For express shipments, this status often means a quicker turnaround. Express shipments are prioritized, so after the package departs from the origin, it will likely arrive at the destination within 5-10 business days.
• Freight Shipments: For larger or bulk shipments transported by cargo planes, the status indicates that the shipment has left the origin, but these often involve longer processing and customs clearance times due to the size and nature of the cargo.

FAQs About “Departed From Airport Of Origin”

How long does it take for a package to arrive after “departed from airport of origin”?

Typically, it takes about 2-5 weeks for a package to arrive after leaving the origin country. Factors like customs clearance, layovers, and flight delays can affect this timeframe.

Why is my package stuck on “departed from airport of origin”?

Common reasons for this include customs delays, missed scans, or sorting delays. It’s normal for international shipments to take some time, but if your package hasn’t moved for more than two weeks, it’s a good idea to contact the courier service.

How long does it take for customs to clear a package?

Customs clearance usually takes between 24 to 48 hours, but this can extend to several days depending on the customs facility’s workload and whether your package requires additional inspection.

Can I do anything to speed up the process?

Unfortunately, the customs and transit processes are out of your control. However, you can ensure that your package has the proper documentation (e.g., invoices, duties, and taxes) to avoid unnecessary delays.

What should I do if my package is delayed at customs?

If your package is delayed in customs, you may need to provide additional documentation or information. The courier service will contact you if more details are required to process your shipment.

What are the common causes of flight or transit delays?

Weather disruptions, technical issues with cargo planes, and operational backlogs at airports or sorting centers can all contribute to transit delays. Your package’s tracking status may not update until it reaches the next hub or sorting facility.

Should I be worried if my tracking status hasn’t updated?

No need to worry right away. It’s common for tracking information to lag, especially with international shipments. However, if you don’t see any updates after two weeks, contacting the courier for clarification is recommended.

How can I check the status of my package?

You can check your package’s status by visiting the courier service’s website and entering your tracking number. If you encounter delays or issues, reaching out to customer service can provide further insight into the status of your shipment.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the status “departed from airport of origin” marks a key stage in your package’s international journey, signaling that it has left its origin country and is en route to its destination.

While delays can happen due to customs clearance, sorting hubs, or logistical issues, most shipments arrive within 2-5 weeks. Stay patient, keep an eye on your tracking updates, and contact the courier if you notice any prolonged inactivity.

By understanding the process, you’ll be better prepared for any potential delays and can track your package with ease.