📦 Hermes Tracking

About Hermes Package Tracking Service

Hermes (now operating as Evri in the UK) is one of the United Kingdom's leading parcel delivery companies, providing comprehensive domestic and international shipping solutions. Originally launched in 1976, Hermes has grown to become a major logistics provider for e-commerce businesses and individual customers across the UK, handling millions of parcels every day.

Our free Hermes tracking service allows you to monitor your shipments in real-time, from the moment they're collected until they reach their final destination. Whether you're tracking a Hermes Next Day package, a Tracked 48 delivery, a ParcelShop drop-off, or an international shipment, our tracking tool provides detailed status updates and estimated delivery dates for all Hermes services.

Track your Hermes packages easily by entering your tracking number in the search box above. Hermes tracking numbers are typically 16 digits long and may be provided through email, SMS, or on your shipping receipt. Once your package ships, you'll receive real-time updates showing each scan location, transit progress, and delivery confirmation.

Hermes (Evri) Shipping Services

Special Services & Features

Hermes offers several value-added services to enhance your shipping experience. Safeplace allows you to nominate a safe location for your package if you're not home to receive it. Neighbour service enables delivery to a nominated neighbour when you're unavailable. Leave in Outbuilding ensures packages are left in sheds, garages, or other secure outbuildings.

Hermes Pickup provides home collection services at your convenience. Signature Options include signature required, no signature needed, or adult signature only. Cash on Delivery (COD) enables businesses to collect payment upon delivery. Hermes Pro offers dedicated account management and preferential rates for high-volume business customers. All Hermes services include automatic email and SMS notifications to keep customers informed.

Hermes Service Comparison

Choose the right Hermes service for your shipping needs. Below is a comprehensive comparison of delivery speeds, features, and guarantees for each service level.

Understanding Hermes Delivery Guarantees

Hermes Next Day: Hermes' premium domestic service with money-back guarantee. Packages sent Next Day are guaranteed for next-business-day delivery to most UK addresses. If Hermes Next Day doesn't meet this commitment, customers can request a full refund of shipping costs.

Hermes Tracked 24: Enhanced tracked service with delivery within 1 working day. While not officially guaranteed with money-back promises like some private carriers, Tracked 24 offers priority handling and higher coverage limits (£250 vs £100 for standard services). This service is ideal for valuable or time-sensitive items.

Non-Guaranteed Services: Hermes Tracked 48, ParcelShop, Click & Drop, and International services do not include delivery guarantees but provide reliable service with typical delivery times. These services are perfect for non-urgent shipments where cost savings are more important than guaranteed delivery dates.

Complete Guide to Hermes Tracking

Understanding Hermes Tracking Numbers

Hermes tracking numbers are unique identifiers assigned to each trackable shipment. Domestic tracking numbers are typically 16 digits long and follow specific formats depending on the service used. Understanding your tracking number format helps you identify the service type and expected delivery speed.

Domestic Tracking Number Formats: Most domestic tracked services use numeric-only formats with exactly 16 digits. Examples include 1234567890123456, 9876543210987654, or 5432167890123456. For business accounts and Click & Drop services, tracking numbers may include additional prefixes or account numbers in the shipment reference field.

International Tracking Numbers: International shipments typically use formats starting with "EV" followed by digits. Examples include EV123456789012, EV987654321098, or EV543216789012. Some international shipments may use Universal Postal Union (UPU) S10 format with prefixes like CP, RB, or other international standards, especially for packages that transfer between multiple carriers.

Legacy and Alternative Formats: Some older shipments or specific business accounts may use alternative tracking number formats. If your tracking number doesn't match these patterns, verify with the sender that you have the complete tracking number.

How Hermes Tracking Works

Hermes' tracking system uses barcode scanning technology at every stage of the shipping journey. When a package is created and collected, the tracking number's barcode is scanned, creating the first "shipment booked" or "item collected" scan in the system. This initial scan confirms Hermes has custody of the package.

As the package moves through Hermes' network, it's scanned at each processing facility, during sorting, when loaded onto transport vehicles, upon arrival at destination facilities, and finally during delivery. Each scan generates a tracking update with a timestamp and location, allowing customers to monitor the package's progress in real-time.

Hermes operates major processing hubs in strategic locations across the UK including Leeds, Rugby, London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. Packages are typically scanned when entering and exiting these facilities. For remote or rural deliveries, there may be longer gaps between scans as packages travel greater distances between facilities.

The tracking system integrates with Hermes' delivery network to provide estimated delivery dates based on service type, origin, destination, and current package location. While Next Day and Tracked 24 offer guaranteed delivery timeframes, other services provide estimated delivery windows that may vary based on distance, weather, and seasonal volume.

Hermes Delivery Guarantees and Timelines

Hermes Next Day Delivery Guarantee: Hermes Next Day is the premium domestic service with a money-back guarantee. Packages sent Next Day between most UK addresses are guaranteed for next-business-day delivery. If Hermes Next Day fails to meet this commitment, customers can request a full refund of shipping costs by filing a claim within 30 days.

Hermes Tracked 48 Delivery Timeline: Hermes Tracked 48 delivers within 2 working days depending on origin and destination postcodes. Shipments between major cities (London-Manchester, London-Birmingham) typically arrive next business day. Deliveries to suburban or rural areas may take 2 working days. While not guaranteed, Tracked 48 has a high success rate for on-time delivery.

Standard Services Timeline: Hermes ParcelShop delivers in 2-3 working days, Click & Drop in 2-5 working days, and International services in 3-7 working days. These services don't include delivery guarantees, and timelines are estimates that may vary based on distance, weather, and seasonal volume. During peak periods like holidays, delivery may take longer than usual.

International Delivery Timelines: Hermes International delivers to major global destinations in 3-7 working days. Delivery times vary based on destination country, customs clearance requirements, and local postal systems. International timelines are subject to customs clearance delays and foreign postal system processing times, which Hermes cannot control or guarantee.

Factors Affecting Delivery Times: Weather events, particularly winter storms, can delay deliveries. Bank holidays mean no delivery service. Remote and rural addresses naturally take longer due to distance from processing centers. Address accuracy is critical - incorrect or incomplete addresses cause significant delays. During Hermes service disruptions or peak seasons, all timelines and guarantees may be suspended.

International Shipping with Hermes

Hermes offers comprehensive international shipping solutions for sending packages worldwide. The most popular service is Hermes International, which provides door-to-door delivery with comprehensive tracking, customs clearance assistance, and delivery to over 200 countries.

Customs Documentation: All international shipments require proper customs documentation. The Commercial Invoice (CI) form must be completed with accurate description of contents, quantity, and value in GBP or local currency. Falsifying customs documents can result in seizure, fines, or criminal charges. Hermes provides customs brokerage services to assist with documentation and clearance.

Customs Clearance Process: When packages arrive in the destination country, they must clear customs before final delivery. The customs authority inspects the package, verifies the documentation, and assesses duties and taxes if applicable. This process can take anywhere from 1-5 working days depending on the country and package contents. Tracking will show "Customs Processing" or similar status during this time.

Duties and Taxes: Recipients are responsible for paying any applicable duties, taxes, or customs fees in their country. These charges are not included in Hermes shipping costs and vary by country, item type, and value. Some countries have de minimis thresholds below which most items aren't charged duties. Research destination country requirements before shipping.

Prohibited and Restricted Items: Each country has different regulations on what can be imported. Commonly restricted items include food, plants, seeds, medications, cosmetics, electronics with lithium batteries, and anything containing alcohol. Always check export restrictions and destination country import restrictions before shipping internationally.

International Tracking Limitations: While Hermes provides end-to-end tracking for international services, tracking updates may be less frequent once packages leave the UK. Foreign postal systems have varying capabilities - some provide detailed tracking while others only confirm arrival and delivery. Track your international packages using both Hermes' system and the destination country's postal service website for complete visibility.

Common Hermes Tracking Statuses Explained

"Shipment Booked": This is the first status you'll see when a shipping label is created. It means the sender has created the shipment and Hermes has received the electronic shipping information, but the physical package hasn't been collected yet. This is normal for the first 24-48 hours. If this status persists for 3+ days, the package may not have been scheduled for collection yet.

"Item Collected" or "Picked Up": Hermes has scheduled a collection or physically received your package. "Item Collected" confirms the carrier has custody of the package. The package will now enter the sorting and transportation network. This scan typically occurs within 24 hours of collection scheduling.

"Processed at Origin Facility": Your package has arrived at a Hermes processing hub and been sorted for routing to the destination. Packages typically pass through 1-3 processing facilities depending on distance. Major processing hubs include Hermes Gateways in Leeds, Rugby, London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. International packages route through specific international gateways.

"In Transit to Destination": The package is moving between facilities or to the destination delivery unit. You may see multiple "in transit" scans as the package moves through the network. This is normal and indicates the package is progressing toward delivery. Each scan includes the location and timestamp.

"Out for Delivery": Your package is loaded on a Hermes delivery vehicle and scheduled for delivery today during normal delivery hours (typically 8 AM - 6 PM, varying by location). Most items showing this status are delivered the same day. If weather or other issues prevent delivery, it will be attempted again the next working day.

"Item Delivered": Your package was delivered. The detailed tracking shows the exact delivery time, date, and location description such as "Left in safe place", "Left with neighbour", "Handed to resident", or "Delivered to ParcelShop". For signature-required items, the recipient's name or "Signature obtained" is shown.

"Delivery Attempted - Notice Left": The delivery carrier attempted delivery but couldn't complete it. Common reasons include no one home to receive the package, signature required but no one available, access issues to property, or the recipient wasn't at the safe place. A notice card was left with instructions for redelivery or pickup at the local Hermes depot. Items are held for 7 days.

"Held at Facility - Awaiting Customer Instructions": Your package is ready to collect at the local Hermes depot shown in the tracking details. This status appears when delivery attempts fail or when the recipient requests pickup instead of delivery. Bring valid government-issued photo ID to collect your package during business hours. Items are held for 7 calendar days before being returned.

"Item Delayed": An exception has occurred causing a delay. This could be due to weather, customs issues, incorrect address, damaged packaging, or operational issues. Check tracking details for specific delay reasons. Contact Hermes customer service at 0330 333 6556 for more information about significant delays.

"Customs Processing" (International): For international inbound shipments, this means the package has arrived in the destination country and is undergoing customs clearance. This process typically takes 1-5 working days but can take longer for items requiring inspection or additional documentation. You cannot expedite customs clearance.

"Return to Sender": The package is being returned to the original sender. Reasons include failed delivery attempts with no pickup within 7 days, incorrect or incomplete address with no way to correct it, refused by recipient, or customs clearance failure. The tracking will show return journey details.

Hermes ParcelShops and Collection Points

Hermes ParcelShops Overview: Hermes ParcelShops are convenient retail locations where you can drop off and collect packages. There are over 5,000 ParcelShops across the UK, typically located in convenience stores, newsagents, and other high-street retailers. ParcelShops offer extended hours compared to standard depots, with many open early mornings, evenings, and weekends.

How to Find ParcelShops: Use the Hermes website's ParcelShop locator tool or the Hermes mobile app to find the nearest locations. You can search by postcode, town, or address. Each listing shows the exact location, opening hours, and any special services offered. Most ParcelShops have dedicated parcel drop-off and collection areas.

Services at ParcelShops: At Hermes ParcelShops, you can drop off prepaid packages, collect undelivered items, request proof of delivery documents, and get assistance with tracking inquiries. Some larger ParcelShops also offer packaging materials for purchase and Click & Drop services for online sellers.

Collection Requirements: To collect a package from a ParcelShop, bring the collection code (sent via SMS and email) and valid government-issued photo ID. The ID must match the name on the parcel's delivery address. If someone else is collecting on your behalf, they'll need your collection code and their own valid ID, plus written authorization from you.

Cash on Delivery (COD) Collection: For businesses using Hermes' COD service, payments can be collected at ParcelShops. Hermes processes COD payments and transfers them to the seller's account after deducting service charges and applicable taxes. COD settlement typically occurs within 3-5 working days after delivery confirmation.

Drop-Off Procedures: When dropping off packages at a ParcelShop, ensure they're properly packaged and labeled. Most ParcelShops have scales for weighing packages, and you can purchase additional packaging if needed. For Click & Drop users, simply present your QR code or barcode label for scanning.

What to Do If Hermes Tracking Isn't Updating

First 48 Hours - Normal Delays: If you just received a tracking number and it shows "Shipment Booked" or no information at all, wait 24-48 hours. Tracking numbers activate when packages are physically scanned, not when labels are printed. The sender may have booked the shipment but not scheduled collection yet. This is the most common reason for "no tracking updates."

Stuck in Transit - Check Timeline: Review the expected delivery timeline for your service level. Hermes Tracked 48 can take up to 2 working days, and rural deliveries naturally have fewer scans. If tracking hasn't updated in 1-2 days for Next Day/Tracked 24 services or 3-4 days for other services, there may be an issue. Long-distance shipments or packages traveling to remote areas may legitimately have longer gaps between scans.

Verify Tracking Number Accuracy: Confirm you have the complete, correct tracking number with no missing digits. Hermes tracking numbers are numeric in most systems. Try tracking on both hermes.co.uk and third-party tracking sites. If the tracking number format doesn't match Hermes' standard formats, verify with the sender.

Weekend and Holiday Considerations: Hermes doesn't operate regular delivery services on Sundays and most bank holidays. If your last scan was on Friday, the next update will likely be Monday (or Tuesday after long weekends). Processing facilities have reduced operations on weekends, which can cause tracking update gaps.

Weather and Service Disruptions: Severe weather, particularly winter storms, floods, or extreme heat, can delay shipments and scanning operations. Hermes posts service alerts on their website when weather significantly impacts operations. During labor disputes or strikes, tracking may not update regularly and delivery timelines are unpredictable.

Contact Hermes Customer Service: If tracking hasn't updated beyond expected timeframes or shows unusual patterns, call Hermes customer service at 0330 333 6556 (available 8 AM - 8 PM Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 6 PM Saturday). Have your tracking number ready. They can file a service inquiry to investigate the package's location and status.

File a Service Inquiry Online: Visit hermes.co.uk and navigate to "Track and Manage" > "Contact Us" to submit an online request. Provide the tracking number, shipping and destination addresses, and description of the issue. Hermes typically responds within 2-5 working days with an investigation update. This creates an official record of the delay.

Contact the Sender: If you're the recipient and tracking shows no movement, contact the sender to confirm they actually shipped the package and provided the correct tracking number. The sender has more options and authority to file claims or investigate with Hermes since they purchased the shipping service.

When to File a Lost Package Claim: Domestic packages can be considered lost if tracking shows no updates for 10 days from the shipment date. International packages require 21 days. Don't file lost package claims prematurely - Hermes won't process them until these waiting periods expire. Most "stuck" packages eventually show up.

Filing Claims for Lost or Damaged Items

Eligibility and Coverage: Most Hermes tracked services include automatic coverage up to £100 for loss or damage. This coverage is included in the shipping price at no extra cost. Additional declared value coverage can be purchased up to £2,500 for valuable items. Lettermail without tracking, items improperly packaged, prohibited items, and perishables are not eligible for claims.

When to File a Claim: For lost items, you must wait 10 days from the shipment date for domestic shipments or 21 days for international shipments before filing. For damaged items, file within 21 days of delivery. Claims must be filed within 90 days of the shipment date for all issues. Don't wait too long - time limits are strictly enforced.

Who Can File: Only the sender (person who paid for shipping) can file claims with Hermes. Recipients cannot file claims directly. If you're the recipient of a lost or damaged package, contact the sender and request they file a claim on your behalf. The sender is the Hermes customer and has the contractual relationship.

Required Documentation: To file a successful claim, you'll need: (1) the complete tracking number, (2) original receipt or proof of purchase showing item value, (3) detailed description of contents including brand, model, serial numbers, (4) for damaged items: photos of damage to packaging and contents, and (5) original packaging if damaged - don't throw it away.

How to File Online: Visit hermes.co.uk, log in or create an account, navigate to "Track and Manage" > "Claims" > "Submit a Claim." Complete the online claim form with all required information and upload supporting documentation (receipts, photos, invoices). The online system guides you through each required field and document type.

Claim Valuation: Hermes reimburses the lesser of: (1) the item's actual purchase price, (2) current market value, or (3) the coverage limit (£100 standard or higher if additional coverage was purchased). Sentimental value, potential earnings, and consequential damages are not covered. For damaged items, repair costs may be covered instead of full replacement if lower.

Processing Timeline: Hermes typically investigates and resolves claims within 30-45 working days. Complex cases or international claims may take longer. You'll receive email updates as the claim progresses through investigation, review, approval/denial stages. If additional information is needed, Hermes will contact you - respond promptly to avoid claim rejection.

Claim Denial and Appeals: Common reasons for claim denial include: insufficient wait period, inadequate packaging, incomplete documentation, prohibited items, missing proofs of value, or filing after the deadline. If your claim is denied and you disagree, you can file an appeal with additional supporting documentation within 30 days of the denial decision.

Packaging Requirements for Claims: Hermes requires specific packaging standards for items to be eligible for damage claims. Fragile items must be bubble-wrapped and placed in rigid boxes with at least 2 inches of cushioning material on all sides. Liquids must be in sealed plastic bags. Electronics need anti-static protection. Inadequate packaging is the #1 reason for damage claim denials.

Tips for Successful Hermes Tracking

Choose the Right Service Level: Select shipping services based on urgency and value. Use Hermes Next Day or Tracked 24 for time-sensitive items that need guaranteed delivery. Use Hermes Tracked 48 or ParcelShop for non-urgent packages where cost is more important than speed. Always add tracking to all services for peace of mind.

Ensure Address Accuracy: Double-check recipient addresses including apartment numbers, flat numbers, and postcodes. Use Hermes' Address Verification tool to validate addresses before shipping. Include phone numbers and email addresses so Hermes can contact recipients about delivery issues. Incorrect addresses are the leading cause of delivery failures and returns.

Package Properly for Protection: Use sturdy corrugated boxes appropriate for item weight and size. Cushion items with bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or crumpled paper - minimum 2 inches on all sides for fragile items. Seal boxes with quality packing tape (not masking tape). Mark fragile items clearly. Proper packaging prevents damage and ensures claim eligibility.

Save Your Receipt and Tracking Number: Always keep your Hermes mailing receipt with the tracking number. Take a photo or write down the tracking number immediately. If the receipt is your only proof of mailing and you lose it, filing claims becomes difficult. For valuable items, consider emailing yourself the tracking number as backup.

Enable Delivery Notifications: Sign up for Hermes' email and SMS tracking notifications through their website or mobile app. You'll receive automatic alerts when packages are collected, in transit, out for delivery, delivered, or delayed. This is free and much more convenient than manually checking tracking.

Insure Valuable Items: For items worth more than £100, purchase additional declared value coverage. It only costs a small percentage of the declared value and protects your valuable shipments. Always keep receipts and documentation proving item value - required for filing claims. Don't skip insurance thinking "it won't happen to me."

Ship Early for Deadlines: Don't wait until the last minute for birthday gifts, holiday packages, or deadline-sensitive documents. Even Hermes Next Day can be delayed by weather or operational issues. Ship at least 2-3 working days before critical deadlines. During holiday seasons (Christmas, New Year), add even more buffer time - December is Hermes' busiest month.

Track Proactively: Check tracking regularly, especially around estimated delivery dates. If you notice unusual delays or tracking hasn't updated in expected timeframes, contact Hermes immediately rather than waiting. Early intervention often resolves issues before they become serious problems. Don't assume "no news is good news."

Understand International Requirements: Research destination country customs requirements, prohibited items, and typical processing times before shipping internationally. Accurately complete customs forms - errors cause delays and can result in package seizure. Inform recipients they may owe duties and taxes. Set realistic expectations for international delivery timelines.

Keep Communication Open: If you're the sender, provide tracking numbers to recipients immediately after shipping. If you're the recipient expecting a package, stay in contact with the sender about tracking updates and any issues. Good communication between sender and recipient resolves most tracking problems quickly.