Your shipment tracking number can be one of the most important tools in the shipping process. It’s what allows you to see where your package is when it’s been delivered, and how long it took to reach its destination. If you’re having problems with your tracking number, there are ways to resolve them before it causes delays or issues with the delivery of your package.
However, if you are working with one of the best movers near me, you shouldn’t be worried about your shipment being delayed or getting lost in transit. Still, it is important to understand the tracking process to be able to track your shipment if need be. Here are five tips for tracking your shipment that will help you out in any situation.
1) Track it Every Step of the Way
Following is the list of steps that you must follow to keep yourself updated about your shipment.
- Email or call the carrier – The carrier should be able to tell you if your package has been delayed due to weather, traffic, mechanical error, or other unforeseen circumstance.
- Call FedEx – Reach a customer service representative by calling 800-463-3339.
- Visit the USPS site and click Track Package at the top of the page – Use My Sent Mail or enter in your tracking number to see when it was sent and where it is now located. 4. Wait patiently – At this point, there’s not much more you can do until it reaches its destination. 5. Follow up with the carrier if needed – It would help a lot if they are reachable so that they can provide updates about your package every time they find out something new about it.
2) Use a Third Party to Track It
Luckily, you don’t have to track your shipment by hand. Thanks to services like FedEx’s Track My Package, UPS’s Track Packages, and USPS’ Click ‘N Ship, keeping tabs on your package is just a click away. Be sure to enter your tracking number or code into the appropriate site before checking out so that you can monitor the status of your parcel in real time.
The downside of this convenience is that it may not be 100% accurate (especially if the carrier isn’t reliable). But if you’re feeling adventurous and want to see how far off the delivery person might be, go ahead and find out.
3) Stay in Touch with Them
If you’re going to use a reputed international shipment service, you’ll have to deal with customs. The folks over at FedEx shared a few tips on how to track your shipment when you don’t speak the language:
- Get in touch with the person or business that sent the package so they can let you know when they expect it to arrive. They might be able to give you a rough estimate of what day they think it’ll arrive. You could also try calling the local office where they ship from and see if they can help you out.
- When they call, find out if there are any delays along the way and ask them to text or email you updates as things progress through customs.
4) Be Aware of the Dates
A great way to track your shipment is by paying attention to the delivery date. You should also be aware of when it was shipped and what shipping company you’re using. The sooner you know about a missed deadline, the faster you can start fixing the problem.
5) Try to Prepare for Delays
FedEx is reputed for delays. So, be mentally prepared that these things to happen. However, in case of uncertainty you can follow these steps:
- Track your package from the retailer until it leaves the warehouse. Use this information to double-check that it’s on the way and see if you have a window when you should expect it to arrive.
- Sign up for text message alerts with UPS, FedEx, and USPS so you’ll know when they’re scanning your package and moving it closer to your home!
- Create a shipment alert through FedEx’s website or app, which will notify you of any changes in shipping status (delays, rerouting).
- Follow your tracking number in the track & trace bar at the top of USPS’ homepage to get an idea of where your shipment is and what its status is.
- It can take up to five days for packages under 13 oz. to show their location after leaving the sender’s facility—if you still don’t see anything by then, contact customer service!
Tracking your shipment gives you information about the exact location of your package. Make sure you understand these points well to ensure easy and accurate tracking.