Ordering from online stores has become hugely popular in recent decades, but customers are increasingly uncertain about the status of their orders.
This is especially true when the online store does not provide active updates on the progress of the order, in which case order tracking becomes the customer’s only source of information about the delivery status.
Order tracking – what does it actually mean?
A tracking number or tracking code is a unique identifier that allows the customer to track the movement of a package from its point of departure (usually the store’s warehouse) to its destination, i.e., the customer’s home or a pickup point.
Once the order has been picked up by the shipping company and is being processed, the tracking code usually starts updating right away. This lets you check:
- Where is the package going?
- Is the shipment being processed by the shipping company?
- Is the delivery on its way or waiting to be picked up?
- When is the estimated delivery time?
Problem with online store not providing information
Unfortunately, there are still many online stores on the market – especially foreign operators – that do not provide any active order information to customers about the progress of their orders. In these cases, the customer does not receive any notification about:
- Whether the order has been received
- When it will be processed or packaged
- Whether the products have been handed over for transport
In such a situation, order tracking is the only way to stay up to date on where the package is going or whether it has even been processed yet.
A high-quality shipping service will provide a tracking code as soon as possible after receiving the shipping order, and tracking will start updating when the shipment is first read at a logistics facility.
If tracking information is not updated
Without tracking information, the customer is left completely in the dark. This can cause uncertainty and stress, especially for more expensive purchases or slow deliveries.
If the tracking information has not been updated for a long time, check with the store to see if the order has even been packed. If you have received a packing confirmation, check which shipping method you have selected. With certain shipping methods, tracking information may be delayed, for example, until the shipment arrives in the country.
If the tracking information stops during transit, it is likely that the shipment has been damaged. Monitor the situation for a few days and if there is no change, contact your shipping service!