Where do missing parcels/packages go?

[jrr74]

So just over a month ago (10/13), I had purchased a couple items off of eBay from a seller in Germany.  One of those items was to me, a HTF soap on a rope for Rosette.  When I check the tracking record, the only thing documented was from back on October 15th stating the Origin Post is preparing shipment and then there is a tracking number.  What does that mean?  That a label has been printed but possibly did not make it to the post office?  I have been in contact with the seller and have not filed anything yet because I keep hoping it will show up.  She has opened an inquiry with the postal services and will follow up with me.  But seriously, how do parcels/packages go missing?  And more importantly, why that one? 

I have heard that some sellers won't ship to Germany because it takes to long to get to the buyer.  Is there any hope that I may still get my soap on the rope or should I be asking for a refund?

[DappledHazel]

I have gotten stuff from Germany off Ebay before. Some things took 2-3 months and the other thing I got only took 3 weeks. I guess it depends on the type of shipping. Your package might be on it's way.

[Skeen]

Your package very likely is not missing.  "Origin post" just means that Germany is preparing to ship it, and depending on how fast it is coming to you, it may not update for quite some time.  Sometimes it doesn't update until it is delivered.  Most likely it is in transit but hasn't yet reached or been scanned at whatever Customs facility will handle it.  I wouldn't open a case yet. 

[jrr74]

I am happy to hear there is still hope for my soap on a rope.     Thanks!

[Ringlets]

  yes there is still time for it to arrive safely so try not to worry just yet.  International shipping times are hit n miss - sometimes you can get an item in a few days, other times it shows up a few weeks or even months later.
(the longest wait I've had was a non -pony parcel from Greece. It was posted in April this year and it arrived safely ....last week!!  )

The post can be a bit slower from Europe at the moment due to the refugee crisis and also now due to the increased border control etc after the events of last weekend

[jrr74]

After 6 weeks, my little parcel from Germany is no longer MIA!!  Yay 

[Ringlets]

That's awesome!¬ thanks for the happy update!    

[flying_narwhal]

Glad you finally got your package!! 

[jrr74]

Thanks Ringlets and flying_narwhal.  I was pretty darn excited when I saw that the package came from Germany.