How to Get a Tracking Number: A Comprehensive Guide
Knowing how to get a tracking number is essential in today’s world of online shopping and shipping. Whether you’re sending a package to a loved one or awaiting a crucial delivery, tracking numbers offer peace of mind and valuable insights into your shipment’s journey. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of obtaining a tracking number from various shipping carriers and online retailers, covering everything from common scenarios to troubleshooting tips.
## What is a Tracking Number?
A tracking number is a unique identifier assigned to a package or shipment, allowing you to monitor its progress from origin to destination. This alphanumeric code provides real-time updates on the package’s location, estimated delivery date, and any potential delays. Think of it as a digital roadmap for your parcel.
## Why is a Tracking Number Important?
* **Real-time Visibility:** Tracking numbers enable you to monitor your package’s location at any given time, providing transparency and control.
* **Peace of Mind:** Knowing where your package is located can alleviate anxiety and ensure you’re prepared for its arrival.
* **Delivery Confirmation:** Tracking numbers offer proof of delivery, which is crucial for resolving disputes or claiming insurance in case of loss or damage.
* **Proactive Problem Solving:** Tracking updates can alert you to potential issues, such as delays or address errors, allowing you to take corrective action promptly.
* **Improved Customer Service:** For businesses, providing tracking numbers to customers enhances their experience and fosters trust.
## How to Get a Tracking Number: Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a breakdown of how to obtain a tracking number in various scenarios:
### 1. When You’re Shipping a Package
If you’re the one sending the package, you’ll receive a tracking number from the shipping carrier you use. Here’s how it works with some of the most popular carriers:
**A. USPS (United States Postal Service)**
1. **Choose a Shipping Service:** USPS offers various shipping options, including Priority Mail, Priority Mail Express, First-Class Package Service, and USPS Retail Ground. The availability of tracking depends on the specific service chosen. Generally, most of the mentioned services include tracking.
2. **Prepare Your Package:** Properly pack your item, ensuring it’s securely sealed and labeled with the recipient’s address and your return address.
3. **Purchase Postage:** You can purchase postage online through the USPS website or at a physical USPS post office. Online postage often comes with discounts.
4. **Print Your Label:** If you purchased postage online, print the shipping label containing the tracking number. If you purchased postage at the post office, the clerk will provide you with a receipt that includes the tracking number.
5. **Locate the Tracking Number:** The tracking number, also known as the USPS Tracking number or label number, is typically a 20-22 digit number. It might be printed on the shipping label beneath the barcode, or on the receipt provided by the postal clerk. An example tracking number looks like `9400100000000000000000` or `LN123456789US`
6. **Enter the Tracking Number:** Go to the USPS website (www.usps.com) and locate the tracking tool. Enter your tracking number in the designated field and click “Track.”
7. **View Tracking Information:** The USPS website will display the current status of your package, including its location, estimated delivery date, and any relevant updates.
**B. UPS (United Parcel Service)**
1. **Choose a Shipping Service:** UPS offers a range of services, including UPS Ground, UPS Next Day Air, UPS 2nd Day Air, and UPS 3 Day Select. All UPS services typically include tracking.
2. **Prepare Your Package:** Pack your item securely and label it with the recipient’s address and your return address.
3. **Create a Shipping Label:** You can create a shipping label online through the UPS website or at a UPS store. Online label creation offers various features, such as address verification and package insurance options.
4. **Locate the Tracking Number:** The tracking number, also known as the tracking ID or reference number, is a 1Z alphanumeric code consisting of 18 characters (e.g., 1Z12345E1234567890). It’s printed on the shipping label below the barcode.
5. **Enter the Tracking Number:** Visit the UPS website (www.ups.com) and locate the tracking tool. Enter your tracking number in the provided field and click “Track.”
6. **View Tracking Information:** The UPS website will display the current status of your package, including its location, estimated delivery date, and any delivery exceptions.
**C. FedEx (Federal Express)**
1. **Choose a Shipping Service:** FedEx provides various shipping options, including FedEx Ground, FedEx Express, FedEx Home Delivery, and FedEx International. All FedEx services include tracking.
2. **Prepare Your Package:** Properly pack and label your package with the recipient’s address and your return address.
3. **Create a Shipping Label:** You can create a shipping label online through the FedEx website or at a FedEx location. Online label creation allows you to schedule a pickup or drop off your package at a FedEx location.
4. **Locate the Tracking Number:** The tracking number, also known as the FedEx tracking number or reference number, is a 12-digit number (e.g., 123456789012). It’s printed on the shipping label below the barcode. Sometimes FedEx uses 15 or 20 digit numbers. It may also use alphanumeric identifiers, based on the specific service type.
5. **Enter the Tracking Number:** Go to the FedEx website (www.fedex.com) and locate the tracking tool. Enter your tracking number in the specified field and click “Track.”
6. **View Tracking Information:** The FedEx website will display the current status of your package, including its location, estimated delivery date, and any delivery exceptions.
**D. DHL (Dalsey, Hillblom and Lynn)**
1. **Choose a Shipping Service:** DHL provides international shipping services.
2. **Prepare Your Package:** Properly pack and label your package with the recipient’s address and your return address.
3. **Create a Shipping Label:** You can create a shipping label online through the DHL website or at a DHL location. Online label creation allows you to schedule a pickup or drop off your package at a DHL location.
4. **Locate the Tracking Number:** DHL tracking numbers usually start with 3S, JVGL, or JJD and are followed by numbers. Express tracking numbers are 10 digits long. You can find it printed on the shipping label.
5. **Enter the Tracking Number:** Go to the DHL website (www.dhl.com) and locate the tracking tool. Enter your tracking number in the specified field and click “Track.”
6. **View Tracking Information:** The DHL website will display the current status of your package.
### 2. When You’re Receiving a Package
If you’re expecting a package, the sender should provide you with the tracking number. Here’s how to get it if they haven’t:
**A. Ask the Sender:** The most straightforward way is to simply ask the sender for the tracking number. They should have received it when they shipped the package.
**B. Check Your Email:** Many online retailers and shipping platforms automatically send email notifications with the tracking number when the package is shipped. Check your inbox and spam folder for emails from the sender or the shipping carrier.
**C. Check Your Order History:** If you ordered the item online, log in to your account on the retailer’s website and check your order history. The tracking number is often displayed alongside the order details.
**D. Contact Customer Support:** If you can’t find the tracking number through any of the above methods, contact the sender’s customer support. Provide them with your order details and they should be able to provide you with the tracking number.
**E. Use Your Reference Number (if applicable):** Some carriers allow you to track a package using a reference number, such as an order number or customer ID. Check the carrier’s website for instructions on how to use this feature.
### 3. Tracking Packages from Online Retailers
Most major online retailers provide tracking numbers for their shipments. Here’s how to find them:
**A. Amazon:**
1. **Log in to Your Account:** Go to the Amazon website and log in to your account.
2. **Go to Your Orders:** Click on “Returns & Orders” in the top right corner of the page.
3. **Find Your Order:** Locate the order you want to track.
4. **Click “Track Package”:** If the order has shipped, you’ll see a “Track Package” button next to the order details. Click on it to view the tracking information.
**B. eBay:**
1. **Log in to Your Account:** Go to the eBay website and log in to your account.
2. **Go to Your Purchase History:** Click on “My eBay” and then “Purchase History.”
3. **Find Your Order:** Locate the order you want to track.
4. **Check the Shipping Details:** Look for the tracking number in the shipping details section of the order. You may need to click on “View order details” to see the tracking number.
**C. Other Online Retailers:**
The process for finding tracking numbers on other online retailers is generally similar to Amazon and eBay. Look for the tracking number in your order history or in the shipping confirmation email.
### 4. Using Third-Party Tracking Websites and Apps
Several third-party websites and apps can help you track packages from multiple carriers in one place. These tools can be particularly useful if you’re expecting shipments from different carriers.
**Popular Options:**
* **17Track:** A popular website and app that supports tracking for hundreds of carriers worldwide.
* **ParcelTrack:** A mobile app that automatically identifies the carrier based on the tracking number.
* **AfterShip:** A comprehensive tracking platform for businesses and individuals.
* **Shipway:** A versatile tracking tool for eCommerce.
**How to Use Them:**
1. **Visit the Website or Download the App:** Go to the website or download the app of your chosen tracking platform.
2. **Enter Your Tracking Number:** Enter your tracking number in the designated field.
3. **View Tracking Information:** The platform will display the current status of your package, including its location, estimated delivery date, and any relevant updates.
## Troubleshooting Tracking Number Issues
Sometimes, you may encounter problems with your tracking number. Here are some common issues and how to resolve them:
* **Tracking Number Not Found:**
* **Check the Tracking Number:** Double-check that you’ve entered the tracking number correctly. Even a small typo can prevent the tracking system from finding your package.
* **Allow Time for Activation:** It can take up to 24-48 hours for the tracking number to become active after the package is shipped. Wait a day or two and try again.
* **Contact the Sender:** If the tracking number still isn’t working after a few days, contact the sender to confirm that they shipped the package and that the tracking number is correct.
* **Contact the Carrier:** If the sender confirms that the package has been shipped with the correct tracking number, contact the shipping carrier’s customer support for assistance.
* **Tracking Information Not Updating:**
* **Check the Carrier’s Website:** Verify that the tracking information isn’t updating on the carrier’s website either. If it’s not updating there, it’s likely an issue with the carrier’s system.
* **Allow Time for Updates:** Tracking information may not update in real-time. Allow some time between updates, especially during peak shipping periods.
* **Contact the Carrier:** If the tracking information hasn’t updated for several days, contact the shipping carrier’s customer support for assistance. They may be able to provide more information about the status of your package.
* **Package Stuck in Transit:**
* **Monitor Tracking Updates:** Keep a close eye on the tracking updates for any indications of the cause of the delay, such as weather conditions or logistical issues.
* **Contact the Carrier:** If your package has been stuck in transit for an extended period, contact the shipping carrier’s customer support for assistance. They may be able to investigate the issue and provide a resolution.
* **Package Delivered But Not Received:**
* **Check with Neighbors:** Check with your neighbors to see if the package was accidentally delivered to the wrong address.
* **Check Around Your Property:** Look around your property, including porches, bushes, and garages, to see if the package was hidden.
* **Contact the Carrier:** Contact the shipping carrier to inquire about the delivery. They may be able to provide additional information about where the package was left.
* **File a Claim:** If you still can’t find the package, file a claim with the shipping carrier.
## Tips for Effective Package Tracking
* **Save Your Tracking Numbers:** Keep a record of all your tracking numbers in a safe place, such as a spreadsheet or a note-taking app. This will make it easier to track multiple packages.
* **Enable Notifications:** Many shipping carriers and tracking platforms offer email or SMS notifications to alert you to important updates, such as delivery confirmations or delays. Enable these notifications to stay informed.
* **Be Patient:** Package tracking is not an exact science, and updates may not always be instantaneous. Be patient and allow time for the tracking information to update.
* **Contact Customer Support When Needed:** Don’t hesitate to contact the shipping carrier’s customer support if you have any questions or concerns about your package.
* **Understand Tracking Statuses:** Familiarize yourself with common tracking statuses, such as “In Transit,” “Out for Delivery,” and “Delivered.” This will help you interpret the tracking information more accurately.
## Common Tracking Statuses Explained
Understanding what different tracking statuses mean can help you interpret the progress of your shipment. Here’s a breakdown of some common statuses:
* **In Transit:** This means your package is currently moving through the shipping network. It could be on a truck, plane, or other mode of transportation.
* **Out for Delivery:** This means your package has arrived at the local delivery facility and is on its way to your address. Expect delivery within a few hours.
* **Delivered:** This means your package has been delivered to the address on the shipping label. The tracking information may include the date and time of delivery.
* **Exception:** This means there’s been an unexpected event that may delay delivery, such as weather conditions, a traffic accident, or a customs delay.
* **Notice Left:** This means the delivery driver attempted to deliver the package but was unable to do so. They may have left a notice with instructions on how to retrieve the package or reschedule delivery.
* **Arrival at Unit:** This indicates that the package has arrived at a specific facility, such as a sorting center or distribution hub.
* **Departure Scan:** This means the package has left a specific facility and is on its way to the next destination.
* **Held at Post Office:** This means the package is being held at the post office for pickup. This may occur if the recipient was not home for delivery or if there was an issue with the address.
* **Customs Clearance:** This status is common for international shipments. It indicates that the package is being processed by customs authorities.
## Conclusion
Getting a tracking number is a simple yet essential step in managing your shipments. By following the instructions in this guide, you can easily obtain tracking numbers from various shipping carriers and online retailers, monitor the progress of your packages, and resolve any issues that may arise. Whether you’re sending or receiving a package, tracking numbers provide peace of mind and valuable insights into the journey of your shipment.