Essential Guide to Shipment Tracking: Frequently Asked Questions

Online shopping has become a daily activity worldwide. Whether it's jewelry, clothing, or equipment, items are often shipped across continents. While receiving your package quickly is exciting, waiting can be stressful. Shipment tracking plays a crucial role in managing this anticipation, but it's more than just a tracking number.

Can international shipments be tracked?
Absolutely! Each package has a unique tracking number that allows global monitoring of its location and status.

What does a tracking number look like?
Tracking number formats vary by courier. USPS and FedEx use numeric or alphanumeric combinations up to 20 characters. FedEx SmartPost tracking numbers typically start with 92612 or 92748, whereas standard FedEx numbers begin with 612 or 748, which need a '92' prefix for USPS integration. Most UPS tracking IDs start with 1Z.

How can I track my shipment?
Once you make an online purchase, tracking becomes straightforward through the retailer’s platform, often providing estimated delivery dates. When importing goods via cargo, you'll need specific info like the shipment or container number.
For air cargo, inputting the Airway Bill (AWB) number in the courier’s tracking system reveals routing details, estimated arrival, and delivery status.
Can UPS packages be tracked by address?
Yes. Signing up for UPS MyChoice allows you to view upcoming deliveries to your address and access tracking details.
Can shipments be tracked without a tracking number?
Yes, by contacting the seller or logistics provider directly for shipment details. Several logistics firms also offer comprehensive tracking solutions, such as:

Maersk
Maersk, a global shipping leader headquartered in Denmark, operates over 730 vessels and stores millions of cubic meters of cargo. Tracking is available via container or transport document numbers.

AfterShip
Specializing in unified tracking, AfterShip consolidates data from multiple carriers like FedEx, USPS, DHL, and China Post. It offers shipment updates, delivery alerts, and order management tools.

Ordertracker
This platform supports parcel tracking from many international carriers, including Hermes, Dynamex, and eBay. Using your tracking ID, you can easily monitor your shipment status.
Parcels
Parcels app provides tracking for packages from providers including USPS, FedEx, UPS, and Canada Post. Available on Android and iOS, it requires only your tracking number for instant status updates.