Same tracking number everywhereThree ways to track an Australia Post parcel
All three use the tracking number from your shipping email. The difference is how much you get beyond the basic status.
What each Australia Post tracking status means
- Pending
Australia Post has the parcel's details but hasn't scanned it yet. It normally updates within 24 to 48 hours. A tracking number with no activity for more than 3 months is archived and can show as Pending again.
- It's on its way
The parcel has been processed and is moving through Australia Post's sorting facilities. It isn't scanned at every step, so this status can stay the same for a few days on longer routes or in busy periods.
- Attempted delivery
The driver couldn't deliver. Usually nobody was home, or the address wasn't easy to reach, for example a gated property, a property with pets or a secure apartment building. You'll get a card, email, SMS or app notification saying where and when to collect.
- Awaiting collection
The parcel is waiting for you at a Post Office or Parcel Locker. The notification tells you which one and what to bring.
- Delivered
Australia Post has recorded the parcel as delivered, either handed over or left in a safe place.
Source: Australia Post, "What your status means".
Held for 10 business days at the Post OfficeMissed an Australia Post delivery?
If you're not home and there's no safe place to leave the parcel, Australia Post takes it to a nearby Post Office. It can go to a Parcel Locker instead, but only if your mobile number is on the parcel.
| Where it goes | Time to collect |
|---|---|
| Parcel Locker | 2 business days, then moves to a Post Office |
| Post Office | 10 business days, then returns to sender |
What to bring to the Post Office
- One valid photo ID, such as a driver licence or passport, or two forms of ID without a photo, one of them showing your address.
- The details must match the name or address on the parcel.
- A photo of your ID on your phone isn't accepted. Only physical ID or an approved digital ID.
Someone else collecting for you
You can authorise another person in three ways: create a collection authorisation in the AusPost app, fill in Australia Post's collection authorisation form, or complete the authorisation section on the card left at your door. The person collecting brings that authorisation and their own ID.
Need it at a different Post Office? Australia Post can transfer it for a fee of $7.55.
Parcel Lockers and Parcel Collect
Both options let you pick up parcels when it suits you instead of waiting at home. Each has a size and weight limit, so they work best for smaller orders.
| Service | How it works | Max weight | Max size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parcel Locker | Set one up in the AusPost app and collect with an access code. | 16 kg | 35 × 44 × 61 cm |
| Parcel Collect | Deliver to a chosen Post Office using your MyPost customer number (APCN). Collect within 10 business days with ID. | 22 kg | 105 cm on any side |
Orders larger than these limits, such as shelving or furniture, need a street address at checkout.
Parcel late, or marked delivered but not there?
Australia Post says most late domestic parcels arrive within 5 business days of their expected delivery date, and it accepts missing-item enquiries once a parcel is 10 business days past that date.
Before reporting it, check
- Whether someone else at your address, or a neighbour, accepted or signed for it.
- Whether it was left in a safe place, under or behind something, or in your mailbox.
- Whether you received a card, email or SMS notification.
- The photo of the delivery or attempted delivery in the AusPost app.
Source: Australia Post, "Lost or late items".
Ordered from CARLA HOME?
Your tracking number is in the shipping email we send when your order leaves our warehouse. You can also find it on our tracking page with your email and order number.
If your Australia Post delivery is late, missing or arrives damaged, email support@carlahome.com with your order number. For damage, include a description and photos, as set out in our Returns & Refund Policy. We reply within 2 business days.
Australia Post tracking FAQs
How long does Australia Post hold a parcel?
10 business days at a Post Office before it goes back to the sender. Parcel Lockers hold it for 2 business days, then move it to a nearby Post Office.
Why does my Australia Post tracking say Pending?
The parcel hasn't been scanned into Australia Post's system yet. It usually updates within 24 to 48 hours.
Can someone else collect my Australia Post parcel?
Yes, with a collection authorisation from the AusPost app, Australia Post's form or the card left at your door, plus their own ID. Some senders require the addressee to collect in person.
What ID do I need to collect a parcel from the Post Office?
One valid photo ID, or two forms of ID without a photo with at least one showing your address. A photo of your ID isn't accepted.
Can my CARLA HOME order go to a Parcel Locker?
Only if it fits the locker limits of 16 kg and 35 × 44 × 61 cm. Larger items need a street address. Email support@carlahome.com before ordering if you're not sure.
