Understanding "NPAI" and other mysterious parcel tracking statuses

Tracking a parcel online has become common practice, but sometimes certain statuses displayed in the tracking system leave senders and receivers confused. What do statements like "NPAI", "Address incomplete", or "En cours d'acheminement" mean?

 

1. What does "NPAI" mean?

"NPAI stands for "N'habite Pas à l'Adresse Indiquée". This status is used by carriers when they are unable to deliver a parcel because the address given is incorrect, incomplete or non-existent. Reasons may include:

  • An error in address entry.

  • A recent change of address (e.g. an unreported move).

  • An illegible address on the shipping label.

What to do?

  • Contact the carrier to provide the correct address.

  • If you are the sender, please ensure that the address provided is correct and complete.

2. "Incomplete address": A common problem

This status indicates that some essential elements of the address are missing, such as :

  • Street or apartment number.

  • Zip code.

  • The name of the recipient (in the case of a company).

Consequences The package may be held in a sorting center until the information is corrected.

Solution : Provide the carrier with the missing information quickly to avoid lengthy delays.

 

3. "In transit": What does this status really mean?

This generic status means that your parcel is in transit between two points. It can be :

  • Transport from the sorting center to the distribution agency.

  • Shipment between two cities or countries.

Good to know : This status can last several days, especially for international deliveries or remote areas.

Tip If this status persists for an abnormally long time, contact the carrier to check that the package is not blocked.

 

4. "Delivery failed" or "Delivery attempt unsuccessful".

This status indicates that the delivery driver attempted to deliver the package, but was unable to do so for one of the following reasons:

  • The recipient was absent.

  • The address was difficult to locate.

  • Access to the address was blocked (e.g. building closed).

What to do?

  • Check your tracking to find out what happens next (retry, drop-off at a relay point).

  • Contact the carrier to arrange a new delivery or collection.

5. "Customs detention": a special case for international shipments

For parcels sent abroad, the words "Retained in customs" may appear when :

  • Export or import documents are incomplete.

  • Customs duties or taxes must be paid by the consignee.

Solution Contact the carrier for details and formalities.

 

Conclusion

Understanding package tracking information such as "NPAI", "Incomplete address" or "En cours d'acheminement" enables you to react quickly and solve delivery problems more efficiently.

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