Few things bring more peace of mind than knowing exactly where your package is on its journey. Whether you’re eagerly awaiting an online order, shipping a gift to family, or managing multiple business shipments, tracking is your window into the process. Used correctly, it keeps you informed, reduces stress, and helps you act quickly if issues arise.
But while most carriers provide basic tracking tools, there’s more you can do to stay in control from send-off to delivery. With a few smart habits, you’ll track packages like a pro and avoid unpleasant surprises along the way.
Understand How Tracking Works
Every time you ship a package, your carrier assigns it a unique tracking number. As the package moves through various hubs — from pickup to sorting to delivery — that number is scanned at each stop. Tracking updates give you real-time visibility into where your shipment is and when it’s likely to arrive.
Carriers like USPS, UPS, and FedEx all offer online tracking portals, and they typically send status updates via email or text if you opt in. For global shipments, expect updates as your package clears customs or transfers between international carriers.
To better understand how tracking varies by carrier and shipment type, resources like GoParcel provide helpful explanations and best practices for monitoring your packages effectively.
Always Save Your Tracking Number
It might sound obvious, but the first step to reliable tracking is simply keeping your tracking number handy. Save the number in your order confirmation email, write it down, or store it in a digital note. If you’re managing multiple shipments, create a simple spreadsheet with order details and tracking numbers to stay organized.
If you lose your tracking number, contacting the carrier or the seller may help, but it often slows down the process. Being proactive keeps you in control.
Sign Up for Notifications
Carriers now offer customizable notifications that update you at key moments — from pickup confirmation to out-for-delivery alerts. Signing up for these notifications gives you real-time insights and reduces the need to manually check your package’s status.
You can usually opt for text messages, emails, or app notifications depending on your preference. Notifications are especially useful for time-sensitive deliveries, like holiday gifts or customer orders.
Use Carrier Apps for Detailed Updates
Carrier apps often provide more detailed tracking than web portals. Downloading apps from USPS Informed Delivery, UPS Mobile, or FedEx Mobile allows you to see precise scans, delivery windows, and sometimes even driver locations on delivery day.
These apps also give you flexibility, letting you reschedule deliveries or hold packages at carrier locations if your schedule changes.
Watch for Inactivity or Exceptions
If your tracking shows no updates for several days, or you see terms like “Exception” or “Delivery Attempted,” it’s time to take action. Contact the carrier promptly with your tracking number in hand to clarify the status and resolve any delays.
Understanding common tracking terms can help you respond quickly. For example, “In Transit” means the package is moving between locations, while “Out for Delivery” indicates that it should arrive by day’s end.
For a full guide on tracking terminology and what each status means, check out GoParcel. Their resources break down common tracking scenarios so you’re never left guessing.
Track International Packages Proactively
International shipments can be trickier to track, as packages pass through multiple carriers and customs checkpoints. Not every scan will show up immediately, so patience is key.
When shipping internationally, use services that provide end-to-end tracking and consider adding delivery confirmation for extra assurance. Keep an eye on customs clearance updates, as delays can occur if additional information is needed. The CBP Import Tracking page from U.S. Customs and Border Protection can also be helpful for U.S. inbound shipments.
