How does IB define transit time for IB Non-Con shipments?
Transit time for IB Non-Con shipments is measured from the moment IB physically receives and scans your parcel at one of its facilities through to confirmed delivery at the final destination address.
What is not included in transit time
- Retailer handling time: The time between a retailer creating a shipping label and physically handing the parcel to IB is not included in transit time. Typical retailer handling takes 1-2 business days. For accurate customer-facing delivery estimates, add this window to the IB transit time.
- USPS delivery scan delay: On high-volume delivery days or remote locations with limited connectivity, USPS delivery scans are occasionally recorded slightly after physical delivery. This is a scan lag, not a transit delay. It does not affect the actual transit time but may affect when the 'Delivered' status appears in tracking.
For customer-facing delivery windows
If you're an e-commerce retailer communicating delivery estimates to your customers, the most accurate frame is:
- Retailer handling time: 1-2 business days
- IB Non-Con transit: 2-5 business days to metro areas (Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico)
- Total estimated window: 3-7 business days from order placement to delivery for most metro-area non-continental destinations
For a detailed view of how transit definitions vary across carriers on non-continental lanes and why this matters operationally, see the definitive guide to shipping to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Alaska on the blog.
To discuss transit times for your specific shipping profile and destinations, contact our team.