Getting a new iPhone is always an exciting experience. After ordering your new device online or in store, one of the next big questions is how long will it take to arrive after being shipped out. The shipping timeframe can vary depending on different factors, so let’s take a look at what impacts delivery times and what you can expect for your iPhone shipment.
How long does shipping an iPhone typically take?
The average shipping time for an iPhone is between 3-5 business days for deliveries within the United States once the order has been dispatched from the warehouse. This doesn’t include the time it takes to process and prepare the order before shipment. Processing time varies, but is usually 1-2 days.
So in total, from the time you place the order to delivery at your doorstep, it can take anywhere from 4-7 business days for iPhone orders shipped within the US. This is the case for both preorders of new iPhone models, as well as orders of in-stock iPhone configurations.
Factors that impact iPhone shipping times
While 3-5 business days is the average delivery window, there are a number of factors that can result in shorter or longer shipping durations for your iPhone:
- Shipping method – Standard shipping is the default and takes 3-5 business days. Express or priority shipping will be faster at 1-2 days.
- Shipping origin and destination – Where the iPhone is shipping from and to will impact transit time.
- Availability – New iPhone models that are on backorder or sold out may have longer shipping times.
- Order processing time – The preparation time before shipment can vary.
- Weekends and holidays – Business days don’t include weekends or holidays which can add time.
- Shipping delays – Severe weather, high order volumes, or carrier issues can delay shipments.
Understanding these key factors that affect delivery times can help provide more accurate expectations for when your new iPhone will arrive.
iPhone shipping times by provider
Shipping times can also differ depending on where you purchase your iPhone from. Here’s a look at estimated shipping times from some of the major iPhone providers:
| iPhone Provider | Shipping Time (in business days) |
|---|---|
| Apple | 3-5 days |
| AT&T | 3-5 days |
| Verizon | 3-5 days |
| T-Mobile | 3-5 days |
| Sprint | 3-5 days |
| Best Buy | 3-5 days |
Most major carriers and retailers will ship new iPhones within the standard 3-5 day delivery window once the device has been dispatched. However, there can still be variances depending on stock availability and processing times.
Does iPhone shipping time differ by model?
Shipping times are typically consistent across different iPhone models when they are readily in stock. Whether you purchase an iPhone 14, iPhone 13, or older models like iPhone 12 or iPhone 11, the shipping duration from order to doorstep is usually 3-5 business days within the US.
The main exception is with brand new iPhone releases, such as the latest iPhone 14. When a new iPhone model first becomes available for pre-order and initial launch, delivery times are often extended due to limited supply and high demand. It is common for new iPhones to have shipping estimates of 2-4 weeks at launch.
iPhone 14 Shipping Timeline
The iPhone 14 was announced on September 7, 2022 and became available for pre-order on September 9. Due to very high demand, many iPhone 14 pre-order deliveries were delayed 4-6 weeks beyond the original September 16 release date.
Even after the initial launch period, iPhone 14 shipping times continued to be extended through October and November in the 2-4 week range before improving to normal 1 week delivery by late November 2022.
This extended shipping timeline is typical with new iPhones at launch as supply struggles to keep up with demand. In comparison, older generation iPhones like the iPhone 13 delivered within the usual 3-5 days once Apple and carriers had inventory in stock.
Preparing for Your iPhone Delivery
Once you’ve placed your iPhone order, there are a few things you can do to prepare for the arrival of your new device:
- Make sure your shipping address is correct – Double check the address you’ve included with your order for accuracy.
- Track your shipment status – Use the carrier tracking number to monitor the expected delivery date and progress.
- Ensure someone is available to accept delivery – Have someone at home on the expected delivery day.
- Set up notifications – Opt-in for text or email updates from the carrier when your iPhone is out for delivery.
- Know signature requirements – Some carriers may require a signature upon delivery.
- Have an alternate pickup location – Use an office, neighbor, or pickup point in case you won’t be home.
- Provide special instructions – Leave instructions for the carrier if you have pets, need a gate code, etc.
Taking these steps allows you to stay informed on your order and ensures you’ll be able to receive your new iPhone promptly once delivered.
What to Do if Your iPhone Shipment is Delayed
Shipping delays can occasionally happen when ordering an iPhone. If your shipment is delayed past the estimated delivery timeframe, here are some steps you can take:
- Contact the seller – Reach out to the Apple Store, carrier, or retailer to inquire about the delay reason and updated timeframe.
- Check tracking updates – Carrier tracking information will provide the latest on expected delivery status.
- Be patient – Carriers are working hard to get packages delivered quickly and safely.
- Consider pickup – See if the carrier can hold your order at a pickup point for retrieval if the wait is extensive.
- Refund shipping charges – You may be able to get shipping fees refunded if the delay is excessive.
- Request overnight shipping – If it’s taking too long you can pay extra for faster overnight delivery.
- Cancel and reorder – As a last resort, you can cancel and reorder if stock and speed improve.
If your iPhone shipment encounters major delays, communicating with the seller is key. Most reputable sources will make it right with solutions such as refunds or expedited shipping.
Conclusion
The standard shipping time for iPhone deliveries from major Apple retailers and carriers is between 3-5 business days in the United States once the package has been dispatched. Deliveries outside the US may take longer depending on customs and other factors.
New iPhone models like the iPhone 14 often have extended shipping times up to 4-6 weeks at launch due to massive demand and limited supply. As availability improves, delivery times typically shorten to the normal 1 week timeframe.
To recap, here are some of the key points to keep in mind regarding iPhone shipping:
- Average shipping time is 3-5 business days in the US after dispatch.
- Total order processing and shipping takes 4-7 days.
- Faster shipping options can reduce transit time.
- New iPhones have longer delivery times initially at launch.
- Shipping delays can occur and require patience or contacting the seller.
- Track your order and be available to accept delivery.
Understanding the iPhone delivery process will help set proper expectations. With some preparation and proactive tracking, you’ll be ready to receive your eagerly awaited new iPhone right on time.
