Were Expecting It: Royal Mail Tracking Status Guide 2024
Getting a “We’re expecting it” message from Royal Mail can leave you wondering about your package’s status. This tracking update appears frequently, but its meaning isn’t always clear. Royal Mail uses this message to show they know about your package, even if they haven’t physically received it yet.
What The “We’re Expecting It” Message Actually Means
Breaking Down Royal Mail’s Tracking Status
The “We’re expecting it” message shows up when Royal Mail receives notification about your incoming package. Your sender has created a shipping label, but Royal Mail hasn’t scanned the package into their system yet. Think of it as a heads-up that your package is on its way to them.
When This Message Typically Appears
This status appears within hours after the sender prepares your package for shipping. For international packages, Royal Mail receives these items in sealed mailbags. They won’t scan individual packages until they open these bags at their sorting hub.
Different Variations of the Message
Royal Mail sometimes shows this status as “Sender preparing item” or “Item dispatched to Royal Mail.” These messages all mean the same thing – Royal Mail knows about your package but hasn’t processed it yet.
Common Reasons Behind the “We’re Expecting It” Status
Domestic Package Processing
For UK deliveries, this message often appears because packages travel in bulk from collection points to sorting centers. Royal Mail collects packages from senders but might not scan them until they reach the main processing facility.
International Shipping Procedures
International parcels follow a different path. They arrive in sealed mailbags and stay sealed until reaching a main sorting hub. This security measure means your tracking won’t update until the hub processes the mailbag.
Sealed Mailbag System
The sealed mailbag system protects international shipments. Bags remain sealed during transport between countries and only open at designated sorting facilities. This explains why tracking stays on “We’re expecting it” for several days.
Peak Season Impact
During busy periods like Christmas, this status might last longer. High package volumes mean Royal Mail needs more time to process everything. The 2022 holiday season saw extended delays due to strikes combining with peak delivery times.
Timeline Expectations After Seeing “We’re Expecting It”
UK Domestic Deliveries
For packages within the UK, expect the status to update within 2-5 working days. Most domestic parcels move through the system quickly once Royal Mail processes them.
European Union Shipments
EU-bound packages typically take 5-10 days to show their next tracking update. This longer timeline accounts for international transport and customs procedures.
International Package Timeframes
Packages heading outside the EU might show this status for 14-21 days. Most international parcels arrive within 2-3 weeks, though some take up to 6 weeks total.
Holiday Season Variations
During peak seasons, add extra time to these estimates. Royal Mail often adjusts last posting dates around holidays to manage increased volume.
Normal Tracking Progress After “We’re Expecting It”
Next Expected Status Updates
After “We’re expecting it,” watch for “Item Received by Royal Mail.” This update confirms they’ve opened the mailbag and scanned your package. International packages then show “Item Leaving the UK.”
Royal Mail’s Scanning Process
Packages get multiple scans throughout their journey. Each scan updates the tracking information, showing your package moving through different stages of delivery.
Delivery Hub Operations
Sorting hubs process thousands of packages daily. Your package joins this flow, moving through various checkpoints before heading to its final destination.
Final Delivery Stages
The last stages include “Ready for delivery” and finally, delivery confirmation. Each status helps track your package’s progress to your door.
What to Do When Stuck on “We’re Expecting It”
Normal Waiting Periods
Wait at least 7 days for UK deliveries before taking action. International shipments need longer – up to 10 days for EU packages and 14 days for other destinations.
When to Take Action
Contact the sender if your tracking hasn’t updated after these waiting periods. They can check if there’s an issue with the shipment.
Contact Options Available
You can reach out to both the sender and Royal Mail. The sender often has more detailed shipping information about your package’s status.
Required Information for Queries
Keep your tracking number handy when making inquiries. This helps Royal Mail locate your package in their system quickly.
Special Cases and Situations
International Customs Impact
Customs clearance can extend the “We’re expecting it” status. Some countries process packages faster than others through their customs systems.
Strike Actions and Delays
Labor actions can affect delivery times. Royal Mail experienced significant delays during their 2022 strikes, especially around Christmas.
Weather-Related Delays
Severe weather can slow down package processing. Royal Mail prioritizes worker safety during adverse conditions.
Alternative Delivery Arrangements
Some addresses have special delivery arrangements like retention services. These affect when packages move through the system.
Tips for Tracking Your Royal Mail Package
Using Multiple Tracking Systems
Check both Royal Mail’s website and your destination country’s postal service. International packages often show more details on local postal websites.
Understanding Status Updates
Learn the different status messages and what they mean. This helps you better understand your package’s journey.
Best Times to Check Updates
Royal Mail typically updates tracking information throughout the day. Morning and evening often show the most recent changes.
Mobile Tracking Options
Use Royal Mail’s mobile services to track packages on the go. Mobile updates provide convenient access to tracking information.
Common Questions About “We’re Expecting It” Status
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does “We’re expecting it” mean Royal Mail has my package? Yes, but they haven’t scanned it individually yet.
- How long should this status last? UK packages: 2-5 days EU packages: 5-10 days International packages: 14-21 days
- Should I worry about this status? No, it’s a normal part of shipping. Only worry if it lasts beyond the expected timeframes.
Troubleshooting Issues
Check these points if your tracking seems stuck:
- Verify your tracking number is correct
- Confirm the shipping service used
- Check Royal Mail’s service updates page
- Contact the sender for shipping details
Managing Delivery Expectations
Set realistic delivery expectations based on:
- Your package’s destination
- Current postal service conditions
- Holiday schedules
- Weather conditions
Resolution Timeline
Most tracking issues resolve naturally as packages move through the system. Contact Royal Mail after standard waiting periods if problems persist.
Recent Changes in Royal Mail’s Tracking System
System Updates and Improvements
Royal Mail continues updating their tracking system to provide better information. Recent changes help customers better understand package status.
New Tracking Features
The system now shows more detailed status updates. This helps customers track their packages more accurately.
Mobile App Integration
Royal Mail’s mobile services make tracking easier. Customers can check package status anywhere.
Future Developments
Royal Mail works to improve their tracking system. They aim to provide clearer, more detailed package information.
Remember, seeing “We’re expecting it” means your package is in the system. Give it time to move through the shipping process. Most packages arrive within their expected timeframes, even if tracking updates seem slow.
