You’re expecting a shipment and have received a “Gateway Transit Out” tracking update.
What does this mean exactly? Where is your package when you see this alert and is there anything you need to do?
More importantly, what happens if your shipment gets stuck?
Let’s take a look…
Summary: Gateway Transit Out
The “Gateway Transit Out” carrier tracking alert means that a package has left a gateway (i.e. sorting facility) and is now in transit. It signifies movement between key distribution centers. Overall, the alert is a positive sign, signaling that the package has successfully reached a significant milestone in its transit and is moving according to plan.
How Long Until Delivery After the Alert?
The time it takes for a package to be delivered after the “Gateway Transit Out” alert is dependent on a number of factors
These include the shipping method selected, the distance between the gateway and the destination, whether any customs clearance processes need to occur (for international shipments), and any unforeseen delays in the logistics chain.
What Happens After “Gateway Transit Out”?
Simply put, your package is on its way to the next distribution center in the delivery network.
For an international shipment that has left the origin country, this would be the entry point into the destination or center country, (the sorting hub based near the airport).
For a domestic shipment, this will be a central sorting hub, or a facility close to the destination address.
- Related Content: Meaning of the “Gateway Transit In” Status Update
Reasons for a Package Tracking Stuck on “Gateway Transit Out”
If you are watching your tracking and the alert is stuck for several days or more, you may feel a little anxious that your package is stuck.
Here are a few reasons for the potential delay.
1. Customs Clearance
For international shipments, customs clearance can introduce delays.
Packages may be held at the gateway for inspection, tariff assessment, or documentation verification.
2. High Volume Periods
During peak seasons or high-demand periods, such as holidays or promotional events, carriers may experience increased shipping volumes, leading to congestion at gateways and delays in processing.
3. Weather or Transportation Disruptions
Adverse weather conditions or disruptions in transportation networks, such as strikes or accidents, can impact the smooth flow of packages between gateways.
Remember, your package is in transit after you receive the alert.
Plane, train, truck, or boat, if the mode of transport is disrupted, it can impact the length of time it takes for your item to receive its next scan.
4. Incorrect Address or Documentation
Errors in shipping labels, incomplete addresses, or missing documentation can lead to hold-ups at gateways as carriers work to rectify the issues.
- Related Content: Hub Receipt via Container – What Does it Mean?
What Should You Do if Tracking Stuck?
If your tracking really is stuck, here are some actionable steps you can take.
Be Patient
Recognize that the “Gateway Transit Out” alert is a normal part of the shipping process, and some delays may occur.
In the majority of cases, issues will be resolved without you needing to take action and the next scan will take place soon.
Check Tracking Details with A Universal Tracker
I recommend that you monitor the tracking information via a universal app such as 17Track or Parcelsapp
Not all carriers update the tracking on a real-time basis, however, items are still being scanned through the network.
These apps are a reliable way of finding information on a shipment’s progress, (assuming there is more information to find).
Contact the Carrier
Obviously, if the tracking has been stuck at the “Gateway Transit Out” stage for an extended period, you will need to reach out to the carrier’s customer service.
They will hopefully be able to provide additional information and clarification on any potential issues.
Verify Shipping Information
Whether speaking to the shipper, or the carrier, it is essential that you verify the shipping address.
Provided details need to be accurate and complete if you want a hassle-free delivery.
I’m a 25 year veteran of USPS. I’m retired now, but as the editor of Mailbox Master, I can’t quite remove myself from the carrier industry just yet. 🙂
