How to Track a Shipment
How to track a shipment
Whether you're anxiously awaiting an urgent pallet your production line is depending on or monitoring the movement of standard business cargo, having real-time visibility into your shipment's whereabouts can provide peace of mind and enable better planning. In this informative article, we'll explore three effective methods to track your shipments.
Transportation Management System
If you're using TLI's TMS (Transportation Management System), the process is straightforward. Simply log into the TMS and use a reference number associated with your shipment, such as the Pro#, BOL#, Order#, or PO#. Enter this reference number into the integrated search function, and the system will retrieve comprehensive tracking information for your shipment. The TMS offers a centralized platform to monitor the status of your freight, providing real-time updates on its location and estimated delivery date.
Carrier Webpages
f you prefer to use individual carrier websites manually, the process varies slightly. For LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipments within the LTL network, you'll need to use the Pro# from the pro sticker affixed to the bill of lading at the origin. FTL (Full Truckload) shipments often use the BOL# (Bill of Lading number) as the reference point for tracking. In the case of parcel shipments, you'll typically use the tracking number provided by the carrier to check the status of your package. By accessing the carrier's website and entering the appropriate reference number, you can monitor the progress of your shipment.
Dial or Email TLI
If you're unsure which reference number to use or prefer a more hands-on approach, the third option is to contact TLI directly. TLI can track shipments manually using zip code pairing. Simply send an email or give Translogistics a call, and our knowledgeable staff will assist you in tracking down your freight, if it was routed through TLI. This personalized service ensures that you receive accurate and up-to-date information about your shipment's status, and gives you the chance to express urgency behind any critical orders. TLI's managed transportation services entail much more than just shipment tracking, as we can rescue an urgent shipment or offer alternative modes to increase speed if necessary. If it is still locked in-transit and urgent, we can keep a close eye on its status to alert you with any further updates.
ERP to TMS Shipment Tracking Integration
For shippers who have integrated their Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system with TLI's TMS, tracking shipments becomes even more seamless. Through the power of API (Application Programming Interface) integration, TLI's TMS can push real-time tracking updates directly into the shipper's internal ERP system. This eliminates the need to log into separate platforms or manually check for updates.
With this integration, shippers can monitor the status of their shipments without ever leaving their familiar ERP environment. As soon as there's a new update from the carrier, such as a change in location or delivery status, the TMS automatically transmits this information through the API, ensuring that the shipper's ERP system reflects the latest tracking details.
This level of integration streamlines the tracking process, enabling shippers to gain complete visibility into their supply chain operations from within their existing software ecosystem. By consolidating shipment data into their ERP system, shippers can effortlessly incorporate tracking information into their broader logistics workflows, enhancing efficiency and decision-making capabilities throughout their organization.
Whether you're a small business or a large publicly traded enterprise, the ability to receive automated tracking updates directly in your ERP system can be a game-changer. It simplifies the tracking process, reduces manual effort, and ensures that critical shipment information is always at your fingertips, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction and supply chain optimization.
Shipment Tracking Summary
Whichever method you choose, staying informed about your shipment's progress is essential for efficient logistics management and customer satisfaction. By leveraging the tools and resources available, you can gain valuable insights into your shipment's journey, enabling you to make informed decisions and plan accordingly.
Shipment Tracking FAQ
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How do I track my shipment?
To monitor a shipment, simply access the ViewPoint TMS system, input your internal reference number (Pro#, BOL#, Order#, or PO#), and click on search. If that doesn't yield results, you can alternatively search using the consignee or shipper business name, or even search by zip code.
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How do I track my delivery?
If you're not utilizing TLI's convenient ViewPoint TMS system, head over to the carrier's website. Navigate to the official website of the shipping carrier. Typically, carriers offer a dedicated tracking page. Input your tracking number into the designated field and click on the "Track" button or a similar prompt to proceed.
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How can you tell what carrier a tracking number is?
If you possess a tracking number but are uncertain about its corresponding carrier, you can search for the carrier prefix online or reach out to the carrier's customer service for guidance. This will enable you to monitor the delivery progress of your package and receive timely updates on its status. If you're utilizing TLI's ViewPoint TMS and input the tracking number to integrated search, it will promptly identify the carrier responsible for routing the shipment, along with the mode of transportation used.
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What do USPS tracking numbers start with?
The majority of domestic USPS tracking numbers consist of 22 digits and begin with the number 9. However, it's important to note that international packages may have slight variations.
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What does a DHL tracking number look like?
For DHL Express shipments, tracking numbers typically start with a 10-digit numeric sequence beginning with 000, JJD01, JJD00, or a similar variation.
DHL Parcel tracking numbers consist of a 10-digit numeric sequence starting with 3S, JJD, or JVGL.
Meanwhile, DHL eCommerce tracking numbers vary in length from 10 to 39 characters and start with LX, GM, RX, or up to five letters.
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How do I track something shipped?
To track a shipment, log in to the ViewPoint TMS system and input your internal reference number (Pro#, BOL#, Order#, or PO#), then hit search. If this method doesn't yield results, you can also search using the consignee or shipper business name, or even by zip code. Additionally, it's helpful to know the mode of transportation the shipment was routed under if possible.
TLI Insights
For the latest insights, tips and commentary surrounding the logistics industry, look no further. Shippers will find thoughts from the award-winning team at Translogistics covering everything related to your transportation processes and plans. If you have a question we are readily available at insidesales@tli.email
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