If your package starts with "1Z," chances are it's from UPS.
They give each package a tracking number, and most of them start with "1Z" (although some might be a bit different).
This tracking number is like a secret code you type in to see where your package is, either on the UPS website or with a free tracking app.
Want to know more about how UPS tracking numbers work and how to keep tabs on your deliveries? Keep reading!
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A tracking number is a special code or barcode that consists of numbers or letters. Shipping companies like UPS assign it to each package or group of packages they handle.
You usually find this number on the shipping label or in emails or receipts confirming your order.
Tracking numbers are mainly used to follow where your packages are as they move through the shipping process.
Different delivery companies have their styles of tracking numbers. Couriers might use different formats to distinguish between the various services they offer.
When you look up a tracking number, you usually get different details like where the package is currently, where it has been, and when it's expected to be delivered.
Tracking numbers vary across the shipping industry.
Below are the basic formats for tracking numbers used by major delivery companies:
UPS is the main shipping company using tracking numbers that start with 1Z.
If you see another number starting with 1Z, it's likely a scam.
No other big delivery companies use tracking numbers starting with 1Z.
UPS tracking numbers come in different formats, including the 1Z format. Here are a few real examples of old, inactive UPS tracking numbers that start with 1Z:
In each of these examples, there's a two-digit service code in the middle of the tracking number. For instance, in the first tracking number listed, the code "20" means "UPS Canada Standard (Ground)."
Most UPS ground packages have 18-digit 1Z tracking numbers.
These numbers start with 1Z, followed by a six-digit alphanumeric carrier code. Then a two-digit code showing the specific UPS service level for the package, followed by a seven-digit package identifier, and finally, a one-character checksum variable.
The easiest way to track a UPS shipment is to visit the UPS online tracker. Simply enter your UPS tracking number.
If you don't have the tracking number, you can also input an order number, package ID number, reference number, or the UPS Delivery Notice Number found on any delivery notice left by a UPS driver.
You can locate UPS tracking numbers in several places, including your order confirmation email or text, your UPS My Choice account, on the package label itself, or a physical receipt from a UPS location.
Alternative Methods to Check the Tracking Status of a UPS Package
UPS is known to offer its customers guaranteed day-definite and time-definite worldwide delivery services, based mainly on the shipment’s destination. Tracking is available for all services in most cases.
Here are some of the most commonly used services for eCommerce shipping:
When tracking a package with UPS, it's essential to be familiar with the different statuses you might encounter. Whether you employ the UPS Ground service or another shipping option, these statuses provide key insights into your shipment's progress.
Common UPS Tracking Statuses:
Understanding these statuses helps you stay informed about your package's journey and anticipate any potential delays.
UPS generally updates tracking information each time your package reaches a new facility or checkpoint. As the package is scanned at these points, the tracking data is uploaded, usually in near real-time. This allows you to closely monitor your shipment’s progress.
However, there may be occasional delays in these updates. For example, if a driver doesn't scan the barcode immediately due to a busy schedule, the tracking information might not reflect the package’s current status right away. Additionally, technical issues or other unforeseen circumstances can also cause delays in updating the tracking information.
If you notice significant delays or have specific concerns about your shipment, contacting UPS customer service is the best course of action. They can provide the most accurate information and assist in resolving any issues.
If your UPS tracking number isn't working or updating, there are several possible reasons:
Package Not Yet Picked Up: The tracking number may not be active because the courier hasn’t collected the package yet. Tracking numbers only become active after the package has been picked up and processed.
Delayed Scanning: There might be a delay between when the package is handed over and when it is scanned into the system. This is more common during high-volume periods like holidays.
Technical Issues: Temporary technical glitches in UPS’s system can sometimes prevent tracking information from updating as expected.
Incorrect Tracking Number: Double-check the tracking number you've entered. A simple typo can cause issues with tracking.
Service Delays: Occasionally, service interruptions or delays may impact the timely updating of tracking information. Be sure to check for any notifications or alerts from UPS.
Wait for 24 Hours: Allow up to 24 hours for the tracking number to be logged into the UPS system, especially if it was recently generated.
Check with the Sender: If the tracking hasn't updated after 24 hours, consider contacting the sender to confirm that there were no delays in dispatching your package.
Contact UPS Support: If the tracking information still hasn’t updated after 24 hours, reach out to UPS customer service with your tracking number and any other relevant details for further assistance.
We provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about UPS delivery services.
A UPS InfoNotice is the paper slip UPS drivers leave at your door if you miss a parcel delivery or pickup.
It informs you about the attempted delivery or pickup and provides instructions for the next steps.
Each InfoNotice contains a unique UPS Delivery Notice Number, which you can use online to manage your package.
When your UPS tracking status updates to "out for delivery today," it indicates that your package has left the local distribution center and is currently on a delivery vehicle, en route to your specified address.
UPS My Choice provides access to UPS's online services, catering to both personal and business needs, each with tailored features.
UPS SurePost is an economical shipping choice that involves USPS mail carriers completing the final stages of delivery instead of UPS drivers.
The process begins with a UPS store managing and transporting your SurePost package until it reaches the designated USPS facility closest to the recipient's address. Subsequently, the recipient's regular USPS mail carrier takes charge of the last leg of the delivery journey.
UPS Access Points are nearby businesses serving as pickup and dropoff locations for UPS customers. They also serve as alternative mailing addresses.
When traveling, you can send packages to a UPS Access Point for safekeeping until your return. Or, if you're a busy professional needing to collect a UPS delivery, you can schedule a pickup at a nearby Access Point, saving you a trip across town.
UPS Freight is now known as TForce Freight.
UPS sold its less-than-truckload (LTL) division, UPS Freight, to TFI International Inc. for $800 million.
Following the acquisition, TFI rebranded the division as TForce Freight.
Despite the change in ownership and branding, UPS and TFI still collaborate. TForce provides limited LTL services to UPS, while UPS offers last-mile delivery services for TForce.
The UPS website provides a form for shippers to schedule freight pickups, which are then directed to TForce.
Additionally, TForce offers UPS Ground with Freight Pricing, a comprehensive solution merging their freight service with UPS's last-mile delivery service.
For tracking information on freight shipments sent through UPS/TFI, you can enter your tracking number into the TForce Tracking page or the free Circuit Package Tracker
UPS tracking is included at no additional charge. When you purchase a shipping service from UPS, the tracking feature is bundled into the overall shipping cost.
Key Points:
By integrating tracking into the shipping price, UPS ensures a straightforward, hassle-free experience.
Shipping companies strive to assist us in tracking our packages and staying updated on deliveries. Yet, package tracking can occasionally become intricate.
While package tracking might encounter complexities, using available resources and remaining patient can help ensure a smoother delivery experience.
For instance, the UPS tracking number contains 18 digits in total. It usually starts with "1Z" and ends with a check digit. This provides a reliable way to track your package from start to finish. Understanding this structure can help you decipher the tracking information more effectively and ensure your package is on the right path.
Ultimately, staying engaged with tracking updates and maintaining open communication with the shipping company can contribute to a more seamless package delivery experience.