Order Shipment Meaning: What It Is & How It Works in E-Commerce & Logistics

What Does Order Shipment Meaning?

When you shop online or track a package, you often see the term “order shipment” or “order has been shipped.” But what does it actually mean?

Order shipment refers to the process of preparing, packing, and sending an order to a customer.
It marks the transition from order processing to transportation.
This status means the package has left the warehouse and is in transit to the customer.

Understanding order shipment status helps customers track their orders, manage expectations, and resolve any delivery issues.

Understanding the Order Shipment Process

Steps in the Order Shipment Process

Step	What Happens?
Order Received	Customer places an order; the system confirms payment.
Order Processing	Warehouse picks and packs the items.
Order Shipment (Shipped Status)	Carrier picks up the package for delivery.
In Transit	Package moves through logistics networks.
Out for Delivery	Final stage before reaching the customer.
Delivered	Customer receives the package.

“Order shipped” does NOT mean it has arrived yet—it only means it’s on its way!

Order Shipped: The package has left the warehouse and is in transit.
Order Delivered: The package has arrived at the customer’s address.

Common Shipping Status Updates

Shipping Status	Meaning
Shipped	Your package has been handed to the courier.
In Transit	Your package is moving through distribution centers.
Out for Delivery	The package is on its final route to you.
Delivered	Your package has arrived.
Delayed	Unexpected issues have slowed down delivery.

If your package says “shipped,” it means it’s on the way but not yet delivered.

The time between “order shipped” and “order delivered” depends on:

Shipping Method – Standard, expedited, or overnight shipping.
Carrier Service – USPS, FedEx, UPS, DHL, or private couriers.
Distance & Location – Domestic vs. international shipments.
Customs Clearance – Required for international shipping.

Estimated Shipping Times by Method

Check your tracking number for real-time updates on your shipment.

Most companies provide tracking information once an order is shipped.

Tracking Number: Given by the shipping company.
Carrier Website: Enter the tracking number to check updates.
Email or SMS Alerts: Many retailers send automatic notifications.

If you don’t receive a tracking number, check your email or order history on the retailer’s website.

“Order shipment” means your package has left the warehouse and is on its way.
Tracking your package helps you know where it is and when it will arrive.
Delivery time varies based on shipping method, location, and carrier.

Need to track your shipment? Check your email or retailer’s website for your tracking number!

Have questions about shipping? Drop them in the comments below!