A tracking number is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned to a shipment that allows businesses, logistics providers, and customers to monitor the movement of a package from origin to final delivery.
Tracking numbers provide real-time visibility into a shipment’s status, location, and estimated delivery timeline, improving transparency, communication, and overall supply chain reliability.
Every major carrier issues its own tracking formats, but all serve the same purpose: to create a traceable digital record of a shipment’s journey.
How Tracking Numbers Work
Tracking numbers connect to a carrier’s digital tracking system. As the shipment passes through different logistics checkpoints, the tracking number is scanned, updating the shipment’s status.
Common tracking events include:
Shipment Created – The label is generated and assigned a number.
Picked Up – The carrier physically receives the package.
In Transit – The shipment moves through hubs, terminals, or transfer stations.
Out for Delivery – The package is on the local delivery vehicle or route.
Delivered – Final delivery is confirmed, often with a timestamp, photo, or signature.
Exceptions – Issues such as delays, customs holds, or incorrect addresses.
Modern systems integrate tracking numbers with barcode scanning, RFID technology, GPS, and IoT sensors to ensure accuracy and real-time updates.
Why Tracking Numbers Are Important
Tracking numbers play a critical role in supply chain visibility for businesses and consumers.
Real-Time Visibility Track location, movement, and delays across the entire shipping journey.
Reduced Customer Service Load Self-service tracking minimizes “Where is my order?” inquiries for retailers and 3PLs.
Shipment Accuracy & Accountability Tracking numbers document each handoff, reducing lost or misrouted shipments.
Proof of Delivery (POD) Final scan events provide confirmation for billing, claims, and customer communication.
Improved Exception Management Early alerts allow businesses and logistics teams to address issues proactively.
Tracking Number Formats by Carrier
Carrier
Typical Format
Example Format (Non-Live)
UPS
Starts with “1Z” + 16 characters
1Z999AA10123456784
FedEx
12–14 digits
612999999999
USPS
20–22 digits; varies by service
9400 1000 0000 0000 0000 00
DHL
10 digits, sometimes starting with “JJD”
JJD0002256789
Freight Carriers
PRO numbers, BOL numbers, or SCAC-linked IDs
PRO: 123456789, BOL: ABCD12345678
Tracking Number Usage Examples in Logistics
E-commerce – Retailers provide customers with tracking numbers to monitor orders, reducing inbound customer service volume.
B2B Shipments – Businesses track palletized or LTL freight to coordinate receiving and production schedules.
3PL Visibility – Logistics partners use tracking numbers to confirm pickup, transit milestones, and delivery for client shipments.
Proactive Notifications – Automated systems use tracking IDs to push delivery alerts, delay notices, or proof of delivery.
GPS-Enabled Tracking – Some carriers provide real-time location mapping tied to the tracking number.
An online retailer ships an order through UPS. When the shipping label is created, a tracking number is generated. As the package moves through UPS facilities, each scan updates the delivery status—allowing both the customer and the retailer to monitor progress and receive automated alerts if delays occur.
