“Handed Over to Carrier” – Tracking Guide

You are expecting a package and have received a “Handed Over to Carrier” tracking update.

What does this mean exactly and what do you do if your tracking ends up stuck on this alert?

Let’s take a look…

Handed Over to Carrier – Guide

The “Handed Over to Carrier” status alert means that the package, after being prepared and processed by the shipper (such as an online retailer or a fulfillment center), has been transferred to the carrier responsible for transport.

In other words, the physical package has transitioned from the shipper’s control to the carrier’s responsibility.

• Related Content: “Arrived at Carrier” Wish Tracking Guide

Where is Your Package When the Alert is Triggered?

When the “Handed Over to Carrier” alert is triggered, the package could well be located at a shipping facility, such as a distribution center or a local post office.

It is here that the item has received its first physical scan for the alert to be sent.

In other situations, the package could be inside the carrier pickup vehicle.

Here, the driver has scanned the item after picking it up from the sender, and it is this scan that has triggered the update.

Implications of the Status Alert

1. Transition of Responsibility

One of the key implications of the “Handed Over to Carrier” status is that the carrier now assumes responsibility for the package’s safe and timely delivery.

This carrier will oversee the package’s journey through various sorting facilities, transportation modes, and potentially through customs for international shipments.

2. Tracking Updates

Once a package is handed over to the carrier, you can expect to receive more frequent and detailed tracking updates.

The carrier’s tracking system will record the package’s movement as it progresses through its delivery route.

These updates will allow you to monitor the package’s real-time progress and anticipate its estimated delivery date.

• Related Content: “Carrier Picked Up the Package” – Tracking Guide

What to do if Your Tracking is Stuck on This Update?

Let’s face it, the reason you have Googled searched this update in the first place is because your tracking is stuck and you don’t know what to do.

While the “Handed Over to Carrier” status typically marks the beginning of the delivery journey, there are certain circumstances that can lead you to see this alert for longer than you would hope.

If this happens to you, here are some steps you can consider:

Try to be Patient

It’s important to remember that delays can occur due to various factors, such as weather conditions, transportation disruptions, or customs clearance processes for international shipments. Give the carrier some time to update the tracking information.

Contact the Carrier

If a significant amount of time has passed without any tracking updates, you can reach out to the carrier’s customer service to inquire about the status and location of the package.

Contact the Seller

If the package was ordered from an online retailer, contacting their customer service can also be beneficial.

They may have additional insights into the package’s status and can assist in communication with the carrier.

• Related Content: “The Parcel Was Handed Over to GLS” – Tracking Guide

Consideration of Holidays and Weekends

Shipping and carrier operations may be affected by holidays and weekends. This could result in delays in tracking updates.

Be mindful of these factors when assessing the situation.

Escalation

In rare cases where tracking remains stagnant for an unreasonable duration, you will need to escalate the matter to higher levels of customer support.

This will likely be a pain in the proverbial ass but will need to be done if the package is lost.

Hopefully, it will not come to this though.

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