Tracking a Royal Mail parcel should be simple, but many customers face issues where their Royal Mail tracking not working or fails to update.
This can cause frustration, especially when waiting for an important delivery. There are various reasons why this happens, from system delays and missed scans to technical faults.
If your Royal Mail tracking number is not working, it could be due to system outages or errors in the reference number. In some cases, deliveries are completed, but tracking fails to update in real time.
This article explores why Royal Mail tracking isn’t working, how to check for outages, and what you can do to resolve the issue.
We will also discuss common tracking errors, solutions, and when to contact Royal Mail support.
How Royal Mail Tracking Works?
Royal Mail tracking allows customers to follow their parcels as they move through the postal system. Each tracked parcel is assigned a unique reference number, which customers can enter on the Royal Mail website or mobile app to check its status.
The system updates at various points, such as when the package is received at sorting centres, dispatched for delivery, or successfully delivered.
Royal Mail offers different levels of tracking depending on the service used. Tracked 24 and Tracked 48 provide updates at multiple points, while Signed For services only confirm when the parcel has been delivered.
Some international services also offer tracking, though updates depend on the destination country’s postal system.
Sometimes, there are delays in scanning or updating tracking statuses due to high parcel volumes, technical issues, or missing barcode scans.
If tracking is not working, the issue may not necessarily mean the parcel is lost but rather that the system has not yet updated the latest status.
How to Check for Royal Mail Service Outages?
If Royal Mail tracking is not working, the first step is to check if there is a service outage. Sometimes, system-wide technical issues prevent tracking updates from appearing.
Steps to Check
- Visit the Royal Mail Service Update Page: The official Royal Mail website provides real-time updates on service disruptions.
- Check DownDetector: Websites like DownDetector.co.uk allow users to report issues with tracking and see if others are experiencing similar problems.
- Look at Royal Mail’s Social Media Pages: Updates about system failures or delays are often posted on Twitter/X and Facebook.
- Try the Royal Mail App: If the website isn’t updating, the app may still provide tracking information.
If none of these sources show an outage, the issue may be specific to your parcel. In that case, consider waiting a few hours before checking again, as updates may be delayed.
Why Is Royal Mail Tracking Not Working?
There are multiple reasons why Royal Mail tracking is not working. Some of the most common include system issues, incorrect tracking numbers, and delayed updates. Here are the possible reasons for tracking not working:
Incorrect Tracking Number
Entering the wrong reference number will prevent tracking from working. Always double-check the number for any errors.
Delayed System Updates
High parcel volumes can cause tracking delays. Updates may take longer during peak periods or system backlogs.
Technical Glitches
The Royal Mail website or app may experience downtime. This can temporarily prevent tracking updates from appearing.
Parcel Not Yet Scanned
If the item hasn’t been scanned at a sorting centre, tracking won’t update. This often happens when parcels are in transit.
Incorrect Service Type
Some Royal Mail services, like 1st Class Signed For, don’t offer full tracking. Only delivery confirmation may be available.
If you are sure your tracking number is correct and the service should include tracking, consider waiting 24 hours before taking further action.
Why Is My Royal Mail Tracking Not Updating?
Tracking updates are expected at different stages, but sometimes they fail to appear on time. This can be frustrating, especially if your parcel is important.
Reasons for Tracking Not Updating
- Parcel Still in Transit: Some items do not get scanned at every point, leading to tracking delays.
- Missed or Skipped Scanning: If the barcode was not scanned properly at a sorting centre, the system will not reflect its movement.
- Network Delays: High volumes of parcels during peak seasons can slow down updates.
- Tracking Not Enabled for the Service: Not all Royal Mail services provide tracking at every stage.
If tracking has not updated in over 48 hours, consider contacting Royal Mail support or the sender for more details.
What Causes Royal Mail Tracking Delays?
Tracking delays can happen due to various reasons, from staff shortages to technical errors. Understanding these factors can help you manage expectations.
Common Causes of Tracking Delays
- High Parcel Volume: During peak seasons like Christmas, parcels take longer to process.
- Customs Processing (International Parcels): If an international parcel is stuck at customs, tracking will not update until it clears.
- Weather Disruptions: Bad weather can slow deliveries and delay updates.
- Staff Shortages or Strikes: If postal workers are on strike, deliveries and tracking updates may be delayed.
- System Updates or Technical Glitches: Sometimes, Royal Mail systems undergo maintenance, affecting tracking accuracy.
If your tracking is delayed, it does not always mean your parcel is lost. Waiting a few extra days can sometimes resolve the issue.
What Does “An Update Will Be Provided When We Attempt to Deliver” Mean?
This tracking message indicates that Royal Mail has received the parcel but has not yet scheduled the final delivery attempt.
It commonly appears when the item has reached the local delivery office but has not been assigned to a courier for dispatch.
This message is part of the Royal Mail tracking system and is often seen with parcels awaiting sorting or delivery planning.
There are several reasons why this status might remain unchanged for multiple days:
- High parcel volume can delay deliveries, especially during busy periods.
- Missed scanning at the depot can cause the tracking to appear stagnant.
- Local delivery scheduling issues may mean your parcel is awaiting allocation to a route.
If your tracking status remains unchanged for 3–5 days, consider contacting Royal Mail or visiting your local post office to check on the parcel’s status.
Sometimes, an attempted delivery may have occurred without a proper update in the system.
Why Does My Royal Mail Tracking Say “Delivered” When I Haven’t Received My Parcel?
If your Royal Mail tracking status says “delivered” but you haven’t received your parcel, it can be frustrating.
This issue may occur due to various reasons, including delivery errors, misplaced items, or tracking system faults.
Sometimes, couriers leave parcels in a designated safe place, such as a porch, garage, or letterbox, without notifying the recipient.
If you weren’t home at the time of delivery, the package might have been handed to a neighbour. In some cases, couriers may accidentally scan a parcel as “delivered” before completing the actual drop-off.
Address errors, such as mistyped or incomplete details, can also lead to misdeliveries. If your parcel is missing, first check around your home, any safe locations, and with nearby neighbours.
If it remains unlocated, contact Royal Mail customer support and the sender to report the issue, initiate a claim, or request further assistance.
How Can I Track a Royal Mail Parcel Without a Working Tracking Number?
If your Royal Mail tracking number is not working, there are still ways to monitor your parcel’s progress.
A non-working tracking number could result from system errors, missing scans, or incorrect number entries. Here’s few alternative tracking methods:
Check Proof of Postage
- If you sent the parcel, review the receipt for additional reference details that may help track it.
Contact the Sender
- If you’re the recipient and tracking isn’t working, ask the sender if they have alternative tracking information.
Retailer Tracking Systems
- If you ordered from an online store, check their website or customer service for real-time shipment updates.
Use Royal Mail’s Informed Delivery
- Registered users may receive estimated arrival times and tracking updates directly from Royal Mail.
If you cannot track your parcel despite trying these methods, wait 24–48 hours for potential system updates.
If the issue persists, reach out to Royal Mail support for further help.
How Can I Fix Royal Mail Tracking Issues?
If Royal Mail tracking is not working, it could be due to system delays, missing updates, or input errors. Before assuming your parcel is lost, try these troubleshooting steps.
Fixing Tracking Problems
- Verify Your Tracking Number: Ensure you have entered the correct reference number from your receipt.
- Wait for System Updates: Tracking details may take several hours to appear, especially for recent shipments.
- Use the Royal Mail App”: Sometimes, the app updates tracking faster than the website.
- Check for Service Outages: Visit the Royal Mail service status page or DownDetector to see if there are tracking issues.
- Contact Royal Mail Support: If tracking remains unavailable for more than 48 hours, reach out for assistance.
If your tracking issue persists after following these steps, report the problem to Royal Mail or the sender to explore further solutions.
When Should You Contact Royal Mail Support for Tracking Issues?
If your Royal Mail tracking isn’t updating or your parcel is missing, there are specific situations where contacting customer support is necessary.
When to Get Help
- Tracking has not updated for over 5 days: If your tracking is stuck, there may be a system issue or a parcel delay.
- Your parcel is marked “delivered” but is missing: This could be due to misdelivery or a courier scanning error.
- Your tracking number is not recognised: If Royal Mail’s system does not recognise your number, it could be an input issue or a problem with the tracking system.
- International tracking is not updating: If an overseas parcel has not updated for more than 10 days, check with both Royal Mail and the foreign postal service.
To contact Royal Mail, visit their official website, call their customer service line, or visit your local post office.
If the parcel was sent by a retailer, consider reaching out to them first for further assistance.
Conclusion
If your Royal Mail tracking is not working, it could be due to delays, incorrect tracking details, or system glitches.
While this is frustrating, most tracking issues resolve within a few hours or days. Before assuming your parcel is lost, check for Royal Mail service updates, verify your tracking number, and consider alternative tracking methods.
If your tracking has not updated for several days, or if your parcel is marked “delivered” but is missing, it’s best to contact Royal Mail support or the sender.
Understanding the possible causes and solutions can help reduce anxiety and ensure you take the right steps to locate your parcel.
If delays persist, patience and proactive follow-ups with Royal Mail are key to resolving the issue.
FAQs About Why Is Royal Mail Tracking Not Working
How often does Royal Mail update tracking information?
Royal Mail tracking updates typically occur at key points during transit. However, delays can happen due to missed scans or system issues.
Can Royal Mail tracking work without scanning?
No, Royal Mail tracking relies on barcode scans at sorting centres and delivery points. If a scan is missed, tracking may not update correctly.
Why is my Royal Mail tracking stuck on “We have your item”?
This status means your parcel is in transit but has not reached the next scanning point. It may take time to update, especially during busy periods.
Is Royal Mail tracking available for all international deliveries?
Not all international parcels have full tracking, as some countries do not support updates. Check with Royal Mail or the destination postal service.
How long should I wait before reporting a lost parcel?
For domestic parcels, wait at least 7 days before reporting. International parcels may require waiting up to 20 days depending on the destination.
Can I get compensation for a missing parcel if tracking doesn’t work?
Yes, you can claim compensation if Royal Mail loses your parcel. Ensure you have proof of posting and check the compensation policy for eligibility.
Does Royal Mail tracking work on Sundays and holidays?
Royal Mail does not typically update tracking on Sundays and holidays. Any updates will usually appear on the next working day.
