The excitement of a new purchase, especially with the convenience of online shopping, has had many of us anxiously looking forward to receiving a package at the door. However, what happens if your packages are late or do not get delivered, and now instead of excitement, there is frustration and wondering what went wrong?
Unfortunately, you are not alone. Mishaps can easily happen for various reasons. With online shopping or even regular courier services becoming a trend, so have delivery issues.
Anything from logistics issues and challenges or even external factors such as theft and hijacking is something unavoidable.
When your package gets lost in transit, you must know what to do if a package gets lost, and how to manage courier package tracking.
Courier Package Tracking: Understanding the Basics
Courier service providers make use of technology, such as real-time tracking, to keep tabs on the whereabouts of their packages. They also send notifications to the sender and recipients regarding the tracking status and estimated delivery dates of packages.
Couriers allocate a tracking number as a unique code to every package to monitor its movement. Often, such tracking numbers are international country-specific, such as Australia’s post-tracking numbers. The format of the tracking number usually has the first few letters that indicate the type of package and the last numbers indicating the country of origin.
These tracking numbers are essential to track the whereabouts of a package until delivery. You will find the tracking number on the order confirmation invoice when shopping online, or sending a package via a courier company.
Tracking Your Package
It is easy to track your package as a customer by using the courier or online service’s website or mobile application. Just enter the tracking number into the website or mobile app page to monitor the movement of your package and to get a confirmation date for delivery.
Some courier services allow you to do package tracking without having to log in, while others require a tracking number. There are the services of a third-party logistics company that can automatically track packages from various postal, courier, and logistics companies on your behalf. This is especially beneficial if you have a lost package.
Estimated Delivery Date and Time
Courier companies use a delivery time estimation algorithm to establish more accurate estimated dates of arrival for their packages. They use technology and extensive delivery time statistics for every package, taking into consideration the country and city of delivery as well as delivery logistics.
Similarly, the package tracking services offered ensure that you receive regular updates on delivery times so that you can plan accordingly. If a package gets lost or does not arrive on the estimated date, you may receive an update on the delay.
However, when your package takes much longer than expected, it is important to consider a few factors before starting a full investigation:
- In the case of an online order, the package may not be in stock or may be on backorder.
- Customs clearance for international packages could often cause delays.
- There may be delays in flights or shipments.
- External factors, such as traffic congestion, poor weather conditions, and vehicle issues such as breakdowns, could cause delays.
- Logistics and warehouse issues may also cause delays in packing your package.
Resolving Package Tracking Issues
If you find that your package is delayed and you are struggling with package traffic, try not to panic. There are often just small issues causing the delay, or postal and courier companies may have taken a bit longer to prepare and forward your package.
It is best to start by contacting your seller if you are unable to track your package. If the issue is beyond their control, such as a lost parcel in transit, allow them to provide a solution. Businesses will usually compensate their customers if an item is lost or damaged in transit. However, you must check with the courier service to determine your eligibility.
How Courier Service Options Affect Package Tracking
Most courier services provide package tracking details for packages which are updated as soon as package delivery takes place. Some courier services provide tracking systems for shipments that allow you to track the shipment and delivery without the need to log into a mobile app or website.
There are also package tracking options that allow customers to track packages and shipments by setting up notifications that send you updates on your shipment status.
Best Practices for Package Management
If you are a business or customer, you can effectively track and manage your packages using the following procedure:
- Log into your account or the seller’s website to track your package and manage all enquiries.
- Use the customer support option or portal to manage deliveries and enquiries safely.
- Keep your tracking number close at hand and safe to ensure it enters correctly when tracking a package.
- Always opt for reliable courier services that give you the choice of accurate package tracking information services and updates.
As a Final Thought:
As a business or customer, it is essential to master package tracking to stay on top of your deliveries and to ensure that there are no issues in the process. When you understand package tracking basics, tracking your package and resolving any delay issues will help to avoid frustration and ensure that you have full control over deliveries.
It is, however, important to choose a reliable courier service that provides you with accurate tracking information and updates. By following the best practices for package management, businesses and customers can enjoy a more successful and hassle-free delivery experience overall.
