Why Is My DHL Shipment on Hold

Discover why DHL shipments get placed on hold and how to resolve common parcel delays quickly

Seeing your DHL shipment marked as “on hold” in the tracking information can be frustrating, especially if you were expecting the parcel to arrive quickly. The term “on hold” means that the shipment is temporarily delayed in its journey and is not currently moving through the network. While this might seem concerning, the status usually indicates that the issue is temporary and resolvable. Understanding the reasons for a shipment being placed on hold can help you respond appropriately and avoid unnecessary worry.

What “On Hold” Means in DHL Tracking

When a parcel is placed on hold, it means that DHL has paused its movement due to an issue that needs to be resolved before the delivery can proceed. This status is used as part of DHL’s automated tracking system and appears when the package cannot be processed further without intervention or when it must wait for the next available transit or delivery opportunity. The hold can occur at any point in the journey, whether in the country of origin, in transit, or upon arrival in the destination country.

Common Reasons Why a Shipment Is on Hold

There are several reasons a DHL shipment might be placed on hold. One of the most common is incomplete or incorrect address information. If the system cannot verify the delivery address, the parcel may be held while DHL attempts to contact the sender or recipient for clarification. In international deliveries, customs issues are another major cause. This can include missing paperwork, incorrect declarations, or the need to pay import duties or VAT. Weather events, transportation strikes or unexpected operational issues such as depot closures or flight delays can also lead to a temporary hold.

How Long Does a Shipment Stay on Hold

The duration of a hold depends entirely on the nature of the delay. Some holds resolve within a few hours, especially if they are caused by scheduling or network management. Others, such as customs holds or address verification problems, may last longer and require action from either the sender or recipient. In most cases, the tracking system will update once the issue is resolved, and the parcel will continue moving to its destination without further delay.

What You Should Do If Your Shipment Is on Hold

If you see that your parcel is on hold, the first step is to read the full tracking update for any additional details. DHL often provides a reason for the hold or states whether further action is required. If the tracking message is unclear or if the parcel remains on hold for more than twenty four hours without movement, you may wish to contact DHL’s customer service for clarification. Having your tracking number ready will help the support team access the parcel’s status and provide guidance on the next steps.

Impact on Ecommerce Businesses

For ecommerce sellers, a shipment being placed on hold can affect customer satisfaction, particularly if the buyer is expecting a fast delivery. It is important to monitor tracking statuses closely and contact customers when issues arise. Providing reassurance and explaining that the hold is usually temporary can help preserve trust. In some cases, proactive contact with DHL can speed up resolution, especially if the hold is due to missing information that the sender can quickly provide.

Preventing Shipment Holds in the Future

To reduce the chances of future shipments being held, ensure that all parcels are properly labelled with complete and accurate addresses, including contact phone numbers for the recipient. For international parcels, double-check that customs declarations are thorough and truthful, and that any required paperwork is attached securely to the outside of the parcel. Using DHL’s digital tools to pre-check shipments and confirm eligibility can also help reduce the risk of unexpected delays.

Summary

When DHL marks a shipment as “on hold”, it indicates that there is a temporary delay preventing the parcel from moving forward. This could be due to address problems, customs processing, operational disruptions or external factors such as weather. Most holds are resolved quickly, particularly when the sender or recipient responds promptly to any requests for information. Keeping track of updates and contacting DHL when needed can help get the parcel back on its way with minimal disruption.