Shipping Glossary

Tracking Number

What a tracking number is, how to find yours, and how tracking works across carriers.

Definition

A tracking number is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to a package when a shipping label is created. It allows the sender and recipient to monitor the package's journey from origin to destination through the carrier's tracking system.

What Is Tracking Number?

When you create a shipping label, the carrier assigns a unique tracking number that is encoded in the label's barcode. As the package moves through the carrier's network, it is scanned at each facility, and those scans update the tracking information in real time. USPS tracking numbers are typically 20-22 digits long, FedEx tracking numbers are 12-15 digits, and UPS tracking numbers start with '1Z' followed by 16 alphanumeric characters. Tracking provides statuses like 'Picked Up,' 'In Transit,' 'Out for Delivery,' and 'Delivered.' Most carriers retain tracking information for 120 days to 1 year after delivery.

Why It Matters

Tracking numbers are essential for both senders and recipients to monitor package location, confirm delivery, resolve delivery issues, and file insurance claims. For e-commerce sellers, providing tracking numbers reduces customer service inquiries and builds buyer confidence.

How Each Carrier Handles Tracking Number

USPS

USPS tracking numbers are 20-22 digits long (e.g., 9400111899223100001234). Free tracking is included with all USPS shipping services. Track at usps.com or via the USPS Mobile app. USPS Tracking provides scans at major processing facilities.

FedEx

FedEx tracking numbers are 12-15 digits long (e.g., 123456789012). FedEx provides detailed tracking with more frequent scans than USPS, including estimated delivery time windows. Track at fedex.com or via the FedEx app.

UPS

UPS tracking numbers begin with '1Z' followed by 16 characters (e.g., 1Z999AA10123456784). UPS provides detailed tracking with real-time map views and delivery time estimates. Track at ups.com or via the UPS Mobile app.

Tips

Always share tracking numbers with your customers immediately after creating the label

Save tracking numbers in a spreadsheet or shipping platform for easy reference and dispute resolution

If tracking hasn't updated in 48+ hours, contact the carrier -- the package may be stuck or lost

Use I'd Ship That to manage all your tracking numbers in one place, regardless of carrier

Related Terms

Package Tracking • Shipping Label • Signature Confirmation

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my tracking number?

Your tracking number is provided when you create a shipping label. It appears on the label itself, in your shipping confirmation email, and in your shipping platform's dashboard. If you received a package, check the sender's confirmation email or the label on the box.

Why isn't my tracking number updating?

Tracking may not update for several reasons: the label was created but the package hasn't been scanned yet, the package is in transit between facilities with no scan points, or there's a system delay. If there are no updates for 48+ hours, contact the carrier.

Can two packages have the same tracking number?

No. Each tracking number is unique to a single package. However, carriers may recycle tracking numbers after a long period (typically 1+ year). If you see unexpected tracking results, make sure you're using the most recent tracking number.

How long does tracking information stay available?

USPS retains tracking data for up to 1 year. FedEx keeps tracking information available for about 2 years. UPS maintains tracking records for approximately 18 months. It's a good practice to screenshot or save tracking details for your records.

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