DHL tracking: Express, eCommerce and Parcel numbers explained

"DHL" is several networks under one name, and they use different tracking numbers. Knowing which one has your package explains most of the confusion about DHL tracking.

The DHL networks

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  DHL Express: international express shipping, door to door, with customs clearance arranged through DHL in most cases. Its waybill numbers are usually 10 digits.
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  DHL eCommerce: economy shipping for online shops in several countries. Numbers often start with GM followed by 16 to 20 digits, among other formats. In some countries the package is handed to the national postal service for the final delivery.
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  DHL Parcel and DHL Paket: the domestic parcel networks in Germany and other European countries. German parcels often carry 12 or 20 digit numbers; other services and countries use other formats, including letters.

Where to find the tracking number

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  In the shipping confirmation email from the shop.
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  On the label or the waybill attached to the package.
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  In notifications from DHL, if the sender gave it your email or phone number.

Common statuses

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  Shipment information received / label created: DHL has the data, not yet the package.
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  Picked up, processed, departed, arrived at facility: moving through the network; Express shipments are scanned at almost every step.
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  Customs status updated / clearance: an import is being checked. Duties or taxes may be due before delivery.
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  With delivery courier / out for delivery: on the way to you today.
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  Delivered, or delivered to a pickup location such as a parcel shop or locker.

Typical problems

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  Import charges: when duties and taxes apply and the shipment's terms put them on the receiver, DHL Express asks the receiver to pay them before delivery; pay only through DHL's own website or app, typed in yourself. See arrived at destination country.
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  Number not found: often the number belongs to another DHL network than the one being searched; a tracker that knows several DHL networks, or DHL's own global tracking page, helps. See tracking number not found.
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  Handover to the post: DHL eCommerce events can stop when the national postal service takes over; track the same number, or a postal number shown in the latest events, with that service.