DHL processes thousands of deliveries each month. Customers receive various package updates, including the “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” notice.
Don’t panic if you received this status update and aren’t sure what to do. We cover everything you need to know in the article below.
Table of Contents
DHL “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” Meaning
The “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” notification indicates that DHL has given the order to another carrier to finish the next part of the delivery journey. This message isn’t typically something to worry about, and you’ll receive your package soon. You can contact DHL Customer Services for further assistance.
Where’s My Package?
The “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” alert typically happens when the delivery area is outside the range of the DHL infrastructure. This alert typically happens for international shipments to a country where DHL doesn’t have an extensive infrastructure.
DHL will utilize a third-party agent or local postal carrier that covers the delivery radius in these situations. So, when you receive the “Forward to a Third Party Agent” update, your package is almost delivered, and a third-party service is responsible for the last part of the journey.
Other Situations Where a Third Party is Used
In other situations, DHL might use a third-party agent or mail carrier. DHL can use third-party agents in countries with more significant delivery coverage. For instance, the United States DHL service has the capacity to reach over 150 million addresses. However, this coverage is only achievable through the USPS.
Moreover, when DHL is under time constraints and can’t finish a delivery, they can utilize third-party agents and services to get the job done. DHL may use a third-party agent when encountering staffing, backlog, or other issues. Some DHL third-party agents include but are not limited to:
- USPS
- Amazon
- Local mail carriers
Track My Package After a “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” Notice
You might not have access to DHL tracking updates if your package was passed along to a third-party agent or mail service. In these situations, DHL is not shipping your package anymore.
You can use universal tracking services like 17Track or ParcelsApp to locate your package. Most of these services are free; you can enter your tracking number into the field provided. The website will scan prominent mail carriers to locate your package information.
Services like 17Track and ParcelsApp are handy if you’re unsure where your package is or what carrier has it.
What if my order is stuck on “forwarded to a third party agent?”
It’s best to contact DHL Customer Services if you have previously tried the DHL Tracking Page or universal tracking services like 17Track or ParcelsApp. There are several ways to contact DHL Customer Services, including calls, emails, and live chat.
How to Contact DHL Customer Services in Your Area?
You’ll need to contact DHL Customer Services if you’re encountering errors or “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” issues. You can find contact information in your area by accessing the DHL Customer Services page and selecting your region. You’ll be directed to another page where you can choose a contact method, including email, call, and live chat.
1. Contact DHL Customers Services via Live Chat
Another way to contact DHL Customer Services is through the online Live Chat. If you live in the United States, visit the Help & Support page and click the Live Chat button. A chat window will appear where you can provide your 10-digit shipment number or request additional assistance.
2. Contact DHL Customers Services via Email
You can also contact DHL Customer Services via email. If you live in the United States, visit the Help & Support page and select your issues under Contact Us. A contact form will appear where you can provide the following information:
- Tracking number
- Name
- Email address
- Zip code
- Location
- Phone number
- Account number
- A detailed description of your issue
After you provide the information listed above, click the green Submit button to send your email request.
Contact DHL Customer Services via Phone
You can contact DHL Customer Services via phone call to speak with an active representative and receive additional assistance. If you live in the United States, you can call the following number:
- Customer Service: 1-800-CALL DHL (1-800-225-5345)
Remember that hours of operation will vary depending on your location, and it’s best to start with the primary Customer Service number unless you know the specifics of your issue.
“Cannot Be Delivered by Third Party Agent” Notice
You need to contact DHL Customer Services if you receive the “Cannot be Delivered by Third Party Agent” update. This notice indicates an issue with the third-party agent, who cannot finish the delivery. Depending on the circumstances, the parcel will either be sent back to DHL or re-delivered.
Wrapping Up
The “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” notification indicates that DHL has given the order to another carrier to finish the next part of the delivery journey.
The “Forwarded to a Third Party Agent” update isn’t usually something to worry about. You can track your package using the DHL Tracking Page or universal tracking services like 17Track or ParcelsApp. If you encounter issues, contact DHL Customer Services for additional assistance.