Did not receive tracking number - what to do

Check your spam folder. Tracking info often ends up there from automated messages.

Yeah, that's a common situation and honestly pretty normal with a lot of vendors. I've been through it a few times myself. That 7-14 day window after you pay before you see a tracking number? Pretty standard for most overseas operations — they'll often batch ship or wait for certain materials to be ready before they even create the label. If your vendor is one of those that only sends tracking once the package physically departs, don't panic. Tbh, it usually means they don't want you refreshing a "pre-shipment" status for a week.

As for courier choice, if you went with DHL or FedEx, you'll usually get a tracking number faster because those services generate labels on pickup. But if it's a slower option like EMS or registered mail, the tracking number might only appear after the item clears the origin sorting facility. I've noticed packages from Shenzhen or Hong Kong hubs tend to sit for a few extra days before they get scanned in. Packaging durability varies — most vendors use plain bubble mailers or discrete cardboard boxes with zero logos. I've seen some double-box for heavier orders, but it's hit or miss.

Customs stuff really depends on the route. Packages transiting through Guangzhou or Singapore typically fly through export customs fast, but if they go through certain European hubs, they might sit for an extra day or two. I haven't experienced any major seizures from standard ID orders as long as the packaging is discreet. As for overall shipping speed, if you get tracking 10-12 days after payment, expect another 5-10 days in transit depending on the carrier. For me, the wait is usually the hardest part — just check your spam folder daily and be ready to email the vendor if you hit day 15 without hearing a peep.

10 days without tracking is fine if you have payment confirmation. Follow up politely if it hits 14 days.