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How long does international shipping take?

global e shipping illustration

Published: 2023-05-22

Last updated: 2026-08-05

Written by David Renwick

Summary: International shipping can take a few days or several weeks, depending on destination, courier service, customs processing, product type and dispatch speed. Compare courier options, prepare customs data early and send tracking updates so customers get clearer delivery expectations before checkout.

International delivery time depends on the destination, service, collection cut-off, customs information and the carrier’s current network conditions. Use an estimate for the specific parcel and destination, then set expectations that leave room for customs or service disruptions.

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How long will international shipping take?

How long international shipping takes depends on which delivery service you choose. For example, express international shipping is a faster option for international shipments than standard international shipping.

But as we'll learn in this article, there are a number of other factors that can impact delivery speed. For example, the customs clearance process and whether or not you're shipping dangerous goods.

International shipping options

Express, standard and economy services differ by carrier and destination. Use the current carrier estimate for the parcel and route rather than publishing a universal delivery range. Air and sea freight can also suit different order sizes and timelines, but need separate planning and quotes.

bigcommerce shipping app media photo

What impacts delivery speed?

Shipping a package internationally is much more complex than sending a package within the same country.

Below are the key things to keep in mind.

What impacts delivery speed?

Customs

Customs information, product restrictions and any unpaid import charges can delay a shipment. Complete declarations accurately and check the destination’s requirements before dispatch.

Service and route

The selected carrier service, collection time and route all affect the estimate. Compare current options for the actual destination and parcel.

Restricted or dangerous goods

Some products, including items with lithium batteries or restricted ingredients, require specific services or documentation. Confirm acceptance with the carrier before promising a delivery date.

Address quality

Use a complete, destination-appropriate address and contact details to reduce avoidable delivery exceptions.

Set clearer international delivery expectations

Use the current carrier estimate for the destination, then keep customers informed if the shipment needs more time.

Explore branded tracking pages

Which is the fastest international shipping service?

We've pulled together some delivery times from the world's major carriers. Keep in mind that these delivery estimates should be used as a general guide only. They'll vary depending on factors like customs clearance, distance, specific service chosen, and any unforeseen circumstances.

We recommend checking with your service provider for the most up-to-date and accurate shipping time estimates. Most carriers also have shipping calculators you can use to work out how long a delivery will take.

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Other considerations for international shipping

Managing international returns

International returns need a clear process for labels, carrier services and customer updates. Review return options for each destination before you launch.

Keeping customers informed about order status

Give customers a tracking link after dispatch and use branded tracking pages to explain the next step when an estimate changes.

How the right tools can help

Use order, carrier and customs data to support a more reliable international shipping workflow. Automate repeatable preparation steps, but still check current carrier and destination requirements before dispatch.

growing your ecommerce business with international shipping media illustration

Download our eBook on international shipping

Choosing an international shipping courier is just one part of the process of sending orders overseas. To learn more about how to manage customs requirements and the technology that can help you achieve international shipping success, download our eBook today.

Download the guide

Frequently asked questions

Why is international shipping so slow?

From customs forms to shipping delays, there are several reasons international shipping can take some time. When you use expedited services and automate the cumbersome parts of international shipping, you should see faster deliveries.

Why is my international parcel taking longer than expected?

A parcel can take longer when it is waiting for collection, moving through a service network, held for customs information or travelling to a regional destination. Check tracking first, then review the carrier’s current service updates and whether the shipment needs more customs information.

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David Renwick

David Renwick

David is Starshipit's Product Marketing Lead. When he's not whipping up a fresh new product update or chatting to customers for a new case study, you'll typically find him scoping out coffee spots and talking about what's on at the movies. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

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