Real-time package tracking is now standard across all major courier services. Every parcel that moves through a professional courier network generates scan events at multiple points — pickup, depot processing, transit hubs, and delivery vehicles — and these events are visible to both sender and recipient almost immediately. Here is everything you need to know to track effectively.
Finding Your Tracking Number
Your tracking number is issued at the time of booking. On Cargosender, it appears in your booking confirmation email and in your order dashboard. The format varies by carrier: FedEx uses 12-digit numbers, DHL uses 10-digit numbers beginning with JD or 00, UPS uses 18-character codes beginning with 1Z, GLS uses 11-digit numbers, and DPD uses 14-digit numbers.
Where to Track
You can track on the Cargosender order dashboard, which shows the current status in a simplified timeline. For more detailed scan events, use the carrier's own tracking page directly — paste the tracking number without spaces or hyphens. Most carrier tracking pages work without an account.
Several third-party tracking aggregators (such as Parcel Monitor, 17TRACK, and Aftership) support multiple carriers and are useful for tracking shipments from carriers whose own websites are not available in English.
What Each Status Means
Shipment created or label printed means the booking is confirmed but the carrier has not yet scanned the parcel. Pickup confirmed or collected means the driver has the parcel. In transit or on the way means the parcel is moving between depots. Arrived at facility means it is at a depot being sorted. Out for delivery means it is on a delivery vehicle that day. Delivered means delivery is complete.
When Tracking Does Not Update
Tracking gaps of 24 to 48 hours are normal for parcels in long-distance transit, particularly over weekends and public holidays when depots operate with reduced staff. International parcels often show no updates for one to two days while moving between countries.
If tracking has not updated for more than 72 hours on a domestic route, or 96 hours on an international one, contact Cargosender with your order number. We will raise a trace with the carrier, which typically produces a status update within 24 hours.
Delivery Notifications
Most carriers send automated SMS or email notifications when a parcel is out for delivery and again when it is delivered. Make sure the recipient's phone number and email are correct on the booking. Incorrect contact details mean the recipient misses these alerts and may not be home for delivery.
Proof of Delivery
Once a parcel is marked delivered, carriers provide a Proof of Delivery (POD) record — a timestamp, the name of the person who signed, and in many cases a photograph of the delivered parcel. PODs are accessible from the tracking page or by contacting Cargosender support.
