How to Track a Parcel Using a Tracking Number

Tracking a parcel with a tracking number is the fastest way to know where your package is and when it will arrive. This guide covers simple, reliable methods you can use on desktop or mobile — for domestic and international shipments. Perfect for beginners and power users alike.

Why track a parcel?

• Know the current location and delivery status.
• Get estimated delivery times and updates.
• Spot delays early (customs, weather, carrier issues).
• Provide proof of delivery or share updates with others.

What you need before you start

• The tracking number (from seller, receipt, email, or SMS).
• The carrier name (USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Royal Mail, etc.) — helpful but not always required.
• A phone or computer with internet access.

Step-by-step: Track a parcel (quick universal method)

1. Find the tracking number
   • Check your order confirmation email, SMS, seller dashboard, or receipt.
   • Tracking numbers are usually 10–40 characters (letters + numbers).
2. Identify the carrier (if known)
   • Common carriers: USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Amazon Logistics, local post.
   • If you don’t know, copy the tracking number — many carrier sites will auto-recognize it.
3. Use the carrier’s website or app (most accurate)
   • Open the carrier’s tracking page (e.g., FedEx, UPS, USPS, DHL).
   • Paste the tracking number into the search box and press Track.
   • View status, location history, and estimated delivery.
4. Use a universal tracker or search engine
   • Paste the tracking number into Google — it often recognizes the carrier and shows basic status.
   • Or use a multi-carrier tracker (search for “track parcel” — many free tools exist) to check multiple carriers at once.
5. Check your email or seller account
   • Sellers often host a direct tracking link in the order details. Click that link to view the carrier’s tracking page.
6. Enable notifications
   • On carrier apps you can enable push/SMS/email updates for real-time changes.
7. If delivery is delayed or missing
   • Note the latest status and timestamp.
   • Contact the carrier’s support with the tracking number.
   • Contact the seller if carrier support can’t resolve it.

Quick carrier-specific tips

• USPS: Use USPS.com → Tracking; for international, allow extra days for customs.
• UPS: UPS.com gives detailed scans and delivery attempts. Use My Choice for delivery options.
• FedEx: FedEx Tracking shows scan history and delivery window.
• DHL Express: Good for international — displays customs clearance updates.
• Local postal services: Sometimes show only final scans; check seller’s local courier info.

Tips & Warnings

• Copy/paste carefully: One wrong character will return “tracking not found.”
• Allow time after shipment: Carriers need a few hours to upload the first scan.
• International shipments: Expect customs delays and extra scans; tracking granularity varies by country.
• If you see “Delivered” but no package: Check around the property (porch, garage, with neighbor), then contact the carrier immediately.
• Keep proof: Save emails and screenshots of tracking—useful if you need a refund or claim.
• Privacy: Don’t share tracking links publicly if you want to keep delivery details private.
• AI helpers: Ask ChatGPT, Gemini, or Copilot to format messages for carrier support or to draft a claim.

FAQs

1. How long does tracking take to update?

Usually scans appear within a few hours, but sometimes overnight. International moves and weekends may add delay.

2. What if tracking says “No information available”?

Wait a few hours and try again. If it persists, contact the seller or the carrier — the label may have been created but pickup not scanned yet.

3. Can I change delivery address after shipment?

Some carriers let you request reroute/delivery hold (often via account sign-in). Fees or restrictions may apply.

4. How do I track multiple parcels easily?

Use the carrier’s app or a universal tracker and add multiple tracking numbers. Many let you save recent shipments.

5. What if my package is marked Delivered but I didn't receive it?

Check delivery location and neighbors, then contact the carrier. If lost, open a claim with the carrier and inform the seller.

Tracking a parcel is easy: find the tracking number, use the carrier’s website or app (or Google), and enable notifications for live updates. For international or complex shipments, expect extra scans and customs steps. Keep records and contact the carrier/seller quickly for problems.