DEP — Departed

DEP (Departed) is an IATA standard tracking status code indicating that a cargo shipment has physically departed from its origin airport or intermediate station on a specific flight. This status is typically updated through Freight Status Update (FSU) messages sent by carriers or ground handlers, usually within 60 minutes after the Actual Time of Departure (ATD) for the flight. DEP status provides critical visibility to shippers and freight forwarders that their cargo has moved beyond the departure station and is en route to its next destination or final delivery point.

A Lufthansa Cargo shipment with AWB number 020-12345678 shows DEP status at 14:30 UTC after departing Frankfurt (FRA) on flight LH8123, indicating the cargo has left the origin airport for its destination. An Emirates SkyCargo shipment carrying AWB 176-87654321 receives DEP status at Dubai (DXB) at 02:15 local time, confirming the cargo departed on flight EK9876 bound for New York JFK.

• DEP
• cargo departed
• flight departed

How long after flight departure should I expect to see DEP status on my cargo shipment?

Most carriers update DEP status within 60 minutes after the Actual Time of Departure (ATD) of the flight, though some airlines may provide updates faster or slower depending on their automated messaging systems and operational procedures.

What is the difference between DEP departed status and PRE prepared for loading status?

PRE status indicates cargo is prepared and ready for loading onto the aircraft but has not yet departed, while DEP status confirms the shipment has actually departed the airport on a specific flight. DEP always follows PRE in the tracking sequence and represents physical movement of the cargo.