No tracking updates for days — what should you do?
A calm decision tree: when silence is normal, when to contact the seller, when to claim.
Normal silences by corridor
China → worldwide economy: 7–15 days between scans is routine. International flights: 3–10 days. Domestic networks: 24–72 hours. Inside those windows, doing nothing is the correct move.
The escalation ladder
1) Day 10–15: message the seller. 2) Day 15–30: seller files carrier inquiry (carriers investigate internally within 2–10 days). 3) Beyond the marketplace window: open dispute/buyer protection before it expires.
Don't waste money
Avoid paying third-party “tracking expedite” services — no one can accelerate customs or flights. Your buyer protection clock is the only thing that really matters.
Frequently asked questions
Could the parcel be lost already?
Possible but unlikely before 30 days; most “lost” parcels simply haven't been scanned at an intermediate hub.
Should I keep refreshing?
No — scans appear in batches. Checking once a day is plenty.
When will the seller refund?
Typically after the marketplace's protection window (60–90 days) confirms non-delivery, or immediately on a lost-parcel investigation.
Have a tracking number?
Paste it in the box and see the full route in seconds.