International Shipping, Understanding Transit Time and When It BeginsUpdated 4 days ago
For our international community, we want to give you full clarity on how shipping works with our partners Global E and DHL. These timelines reflect the carrier transit time only. Processing time at our warehouse is separate and happens before your package enters the DHL network.
To avoid any confusion, the transit days listed at checkout do not begin at the time your order is placed. Transit time begins only when your package enters the correct stage with DHL based on the service you selected.
Below is a breakdown of how each service works and when the timeline officially starts.
Express Courier Air Service
Express Courier is the fastest method available. Once your order has been packed and your label has been scanned, DHL begins the expedited journey right away.
This service bypasses standard movements and is handed directly from our warehouse to a DHL truck for immediate transport to the assigned DHL hub. From there, the parcel moves through dedicated express routing to your destination.
The transit estimate shown at checkout applies from the moment DHL performs the first scan on your label.
Standard Courier
Standard Courier offers a great balance of value and reliability. At Paper Planes, we secured strong DDP rates through our partnership with Global E and DHL, which allows duties and taxes to be handled upfront for a smoother experience.
The posted 9 to 10 business day transit time begins once your order has fully dispatched from the assigned DHL hub.
This means the transit window does not include the time needed for processing at our warehouse or the batching period required for standard overseas shipments.
For standard international orders, please allow an additional 2 to 5 business days from the moment your label is created for your package to reach the DHL hub and begin its official transit journey.
We want you to choose the best option for your needs, so please keep these timing details in mind when selecting your service at checkout.