Why a Cross-Chain Swap Can Stay Pending or Fail

A cross-chain swap can confirm on its source chain while its destination transfer remains pending because the route has separate steps on separate networks. Across’s tracking documentation distinguishes a deposit awaiting a relayer from one filled on the destination chain or expired; a source transaction confirmation alone does not prove delivery.

Why is my cross-chain swap pending?

It may be waiting for the source-chain transaction to confirm, or for a relayer to deliver the destination tokens. LI.FI’s quote documentation describes a transfer as a sequence of steps, while Across’s status guidance tracks deposits through states such as pending, filled and expired. The word “pending” therefore needs context: check which step or chain the status refers to.

For the route-selection detail, read how to choose an Across bridge route. Then compare the source transaction and destination status using the route provider’s tracker or the relevant block explorers; the source hash shows whether the deposit landed, and a destination transaction hash can show whether tokens arrived.

What should I check before retrying?

First, match the wallet’s route details against the transaction: source and destination networks, token, amount and recipient. LI.FI’s quote documentation includes an estimated output and minimum output, which can help explain why the received amount differs from the initial estimate. Check that the destination wallet is the one you intended.

• Confirm the source transaction succeeded on its chain’s explorer.
• Look up the route status with the provider’s tracker or transfer ID.
• Check whether a destination transaction hash or refund status is available.
• Keep the transaction hashes and route details if you contact support.

Do not submit the same swap again just because one screen still says pending. The first transfer may still complete, leaving two separate transfers in flight.

What does a failed or expired swap mean?

A failed source transaction generally means the deposit did not complete; a destination-side failure or an expired deposit has a different status and remedy. Across’s documentation says an unfilled deposit can become eligible for a refund after its fill deadline, and later be marked refunded. The route’s own status and refund instructions determine what to do next.

Use the transaction status to decide: if the source failed, verify that funds remain in your wallet before trying again; if the deposit is pending, wait for a terminal status; if it expired, follow the provider’s refund process. The next step is to monitor the route until it is filled, failed or refunded. The reason for a delay may remain unconfirmed until the provider updates its status or support reviews the transaction.