UPS is one of the world’s largest and most trusted shipping carriers. It delivers millions of packages each day to homes, businesses, and locations around the globe. Whether you are sending a small envelope or a large box, UPS helps move it quickly and safely.
One of the most helpful tools UPS offers is UPS tracking. With tracking, you can see where your package is at every step — from the moment it leaves the sender to the moment it arrives at your door. This gives you peace of mind and helps you plan for delivery.
In this our guide, you’ll learn exactly how UPS tracking works, what tracking updates mean, and how to track your packages the easy way. By the end, you’ll know how to follow any shipment with confidence.
What Is UPS Tracking?
UPS tracking is a free tool that lets you follow the journey of your package from the sender to the final delivery location. When a package is shipped with UPS, it is given a unique UPS tracking number. This number allows both the sender and the recipient to check the status of the shipment.
You can enter your UPS tracking number on the UPS.com website or in the UPS mobile app. This shows you where your package is and what steps it has completed. You’ll see updates such as when the package is picked up, when it reaches a UPS facility, and when it is out for delivery.
UPS tracking helps you know when to expect your package. You can also sign up to receive alerts when the delivery status changes. This makes it easy to stay informed and avoid missed deliveries.
Where to Find Your UPS Tracking Number?
To track a UPS package, you need its UPS tracking number. This number helps you follow the shipment and check delivery updates.
You can find your UPS tracking number in several places, depending on how the item was shipped:
- On the UPS shipping label attached to the package
- In the shipping confirmation email sent by the sender or online store
- In your UPS.com account, if you created an account and placed the order online
- On the seller’s website or in your order history, especially if you ordered from an online store
A UPS tracking number is easy to recognize. It usually begins with “1Z”, followed by 16 characters, for example: 1Z9999999999999999.
If you do not see your tracking number, contact the seller or check your order confirmation email again.
How to Track a UPS Package
Tracking your UPS package is quick and simple. UPS gives you a few different ways to check your package status, so you can pick the one that works best for you.
Here are a few ways to do it:
1. Track a Package on UPS.com
You can easily track your package by visiting UPS.com.
- Go to the UPS home page.
- Find the Tracking section (ups.com/track) — it’s right on the main page.
- Enter your UPS tracking number in the box.
- Click the Track button to view the latest updates on your shipment.
On UPS.com, you’ll see tracking updates such as In Transit, Out for Delivery, and Delivered. You can also see if there are any delivery exceptions or delays.
2. Track a Package Using the UPS Mobile App
The UPS mobile app is a free tool that makes tracking packages easy on your phone or tablet.
- Download the UPS mobile app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Open the app and enter your UPS tracking number.
- You can also scan a barcode using your phone’s camera if you have one.
The app lets you track packages while on the go. You can also turn on push notifications to get alerts about delivery updates.
3. Track a Package with UPS My Choice
UPS My Choice is a free service from UPS that gives you more control over your deliveries. It is very useful if you receive packages often or want extra tracking features.
Here’s how to get started and what you can do with it:
- Go to UPS.com and click on UPS My Choice to sign up.
- Create a free UPS.com account (if you don’t already have one).
- Verify your identity and address — this step helps UPS match you with your deliveries.
- Once enrolled, log in to your UPS My Choice dashboard.
4. Track a Package Through an Online Store
Many online stores make it easy to track your package directly through their websites. After you place an order, you can usually find tracking information in your Order History or My Orders section.
Most stores provide a tracking link next to your order details. Clicking this link either takes you to UPS.com, where you can view full tracking updates, or shows the tracking information right on the store’s website. This way, you can check on your package without having to copy and paste your UPS tracking number into a separate tracking page.
Using the store’s built-in tracking option is a fast and simple way to stay updated on your delivery progress, especially if you frequently shop online.
5. Tracking UPS Packages Internationally
You can also track UPS international shipments. The process is the same as domestic tracking — use your tracking number on UPS.com or the UPS mobile app.
Keep in mind that international packages may face delays at customs. You’ll see updates when your package clears customs and continues its journey. UPS updates tracking information at each step.
UPS Tracking Status Terms Explained
When you track your package, you’ll see different UPS tracking status terms. Here’s what they mean:
- Label Created — The shipping label has been created, but UPS has not yet received the package.
- In Transit — Your package is moving through the UPS network.
- Out for Delivery — Your package is on a UPS truck and will be delivered soon.
- Delivered — Your package was delivered to the final address.
- Delivery Exception — There was a problem, such as weather delays or address issues. UPS will try to deliver again.
How to Get UPS Tracking Alerts
UPS tracking alerts keep you updated about your package’s progress. You can receive alerts by:
- Text message
- The UPS mobile app
Alerts can tell you when your package ships, when it’s out for delivery, and when it has been delivered. You can manage alert settings through UPS My Choice or your UPS.com account.
What to Do if Tracking Is Not Updating?
Sometimes, your tracking information may stop updating. This is common during busy periods or when a package is in transit between facilities.
If your tracking hasn’t updated for more than 48 hours, contact UPS customer service. You can call them or use the contact form on UPS.com. They can help check the status of your shipment.
What to Do if Your UPS Package Is Lost
If you think your UPS package might be lost, here’s what to do:
- Check your tracking status again to make sure it’s not delayed.
- Look around your property — sometimes packages are placed out of sight.
- Contact UPS customer service for help.
- If the package is confirmed lost, you or the sender can file a missing package claim through UPS.com.
UPS usually responds to claims within a few business days.
Conclusion
UPS tracking makes it easy to follow your package’s journey from start to finish. You can track packages online, through the app, or with UPS My Choice. If something goes wrong, UPS customer service is there to help.
Use the tips in this guide to track your next UPS package with confidence. If this article helped you, please share it or leave a comment below.
