What Does “Shipped” Mean? A Comprehensive Guide to Shipping Statuses

Ensuring seamless and effective delivery is an important aspect of running an online business. Customers expect high quality when they make an order, and the “shipped” status plays a crucial role in managing their expectations.

Therefore, going ahead, we will understand what “shipped” really means and learn the journey an order goes through during shipping. Having a thorough understanding of every stage, from processing to carrier handoffs and updates, enhances the customer’s delivery experience.

Regardless of your level of experience with eCommerce, this blog will help you master the art of shipping management. So, get ready to boost your customer experience and stand out in the online marketplace!

What Does Order “Shipped” Mean?

An order is considered “shipped” when it leaves the seller’s facility to be delivered to the customer’s address. The package is currently in motion and en route to the specified delivery address.

After the parcel is dispatched, customers usually receive a confirmation email or message with tracking information.

Journey of a “Shipped” Order

Once an order is marked as “Shipped,” it goes through the following stages:

1. Picked Up: This means the shipping company has picked up the parcel from the seller’s location. The pick-up normally happens a day or two after the order is marked as shipped.

2. In Transit: During this phase, the package may pass through many sorting and distribution facilities as it gets closer to last mile delivery. Depending on the shipping method used and the distance between the origin and destination points, this phase’s time may vary.

3. Out for Delivery: This means that your package should arrive at your location the same day it arrives at the local delivery hub. Out for delivery signifies that the parcel is in the hands of local delivery personnel, who will deliver it to the customer’s doorstep.

4. Delivered: This indicates that the parcel was successfully delivered to the consumer’s location. Depending on the rules established by the delivery provider, the consumer can be asked to sign a document or give another kind of delivery confirmation. 

After learning what occurs with “Shipped” orders, let’s look at some common tracking updates.

Common Shipping and Tracking Status Terms

During the order tracking process, you can come across tracking statuses other than “Shipped.” These are a few of the most typical ones:

1. Accepted by carrier

Explanation

Accepted by carrier status means the seller has received your order and is getting it ready to ship. The seller hands over the delivery package to delivery companies like USPS, DHL, or FedEx to start the delivery process. After accepting the package, the carrier will carry out the delivery.

Typical timeframes

This status typically occurs within 24-48 hours after the order is placed, depending on the seller’s processing time.

2. Arrived at the regional carrier facility

Explanation

Your item will initially arrive at the main regional carrier facility before traveling via several locations. For example, if it is traveling from Washington to Michigan, your shipment will first arrive in the Midwest regional fulfillment center before it reaches your local facility.

Typical timeframes

Packages usually reach the regional facility within 2-3 days after being accepted by the carrier, though this can vary based on shipping speed and distance.

3. Arrived at local carrier facility or post office

Explanation

Your parcel will be moved to a local distribution center or post office nearer to your delivery location once it leaves the regional facility. With this status, your package is on its way to its final destination.

Typical timeframes

Most packages arrive at the local facility within 1-2 days after leaving the regional facility.

4. In transit

Explanation

“In transit” means that the package is on its way to the destination, traveling through the carrier’s network. During this stage, the package may pass through various sorting facilities and transportation hubs, making its way from the supplier’s warehouse to your doorstep.

Typical timeframes

This status can last several days, depending on the shipping method and distance between the origin and destination.

5. Out for delivery

Explanation

Out for delivery status indicates that the shipment has been sent to the local delivery hub and will be delivered to your location on that particular day. It typically marks the final stage of the delivery process. It means that a delivery driver has picked up your package and is en route to deliver it to your doorstep, known as last-mile delivery.

Typical timeframes

Once marked as “out for delivery,” packages are typically delivered within the same day, often within a few hours.

6. Attempted delivery

Explanation

If the delivery driver tried to deliver the package to the customer’s doorstep but was not successful. In this case, the driver will mark it as attempted delivery, and then the customer can arrange for a re-delivery or pick-up at a designated location.

Typical timeframes

Re-delivery can typically be arranged within 1-2 days, depending on the carrier’s policy and availability.

7. Delivered

Explanation

Once your package has been successfully delivered and proof of delivery has been provided, the tracking status will change to “Delivered.” This means that the delivery process is complete.

Typical timeframes

This status appears immediately after the package is dropped off at the recipient’s location.

Understanding these common shipping statuses can help you track your orders more effectively and know exactly where your package is in the shipping process.

Factors Affecting Shipping Times

Several variables can affect shipping times and the time it takes for your shipment to reach you.

• Faster shipping methods, like express or overnight delivery, usually mean quicker delivery times, but delays can still happen despite the expedited service.

• Because of several pauses and carrier changes, the distance between the seller’s location and your delivery address could impact how long it takes for your product to arrive.

• The shipping carrier’s effectiveness and operational capacity are important factors. Delivery services from carriers with advanced tracking systems are usually quicker and more reliable.

• Regardless of whether you choose a reliable shipping method, unexpected events like weather, traffic, natural disasters, or transportation issues can cause delays, impacting arrival times.

These are some of the common factors affecting shipping times. However, by optimizing delivery routes with Upper, businesses can effectively minimize delays and ensure smoother delivery experiences.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

To sum up, a thorough understanding of shipment statuses is essential for a seamless delivery experience. However, this experience may be affected due to delivery location, shipping carrier, or time. 

Therefore, it is important to know the terms “processing,” “in transit,” and “out for delivery” when tracking orders. Plus, it also helps in proactive planning. 

Clear communication regarding delivery statuses fosters loyalty, builds confidence, and improves customer service for businesses. Fulfilling orders confidently ensures that everyone involved has a positive delivery experience.