Ever found yourself eagerly waiting for an Amazon package and wondering exactly where it is? You’re not alone—knowing how to track your Amazon order using its tracking number is a common need for online shoppers, offering peace of mind and better planning.
Understanding the tracking process is crucial for avoiding missed deliveries or package confusion. In this article, we’ll break down how to locate your tracking number, track your order, and share helpful tips for a smoother shopping experience.
Related Video
How to Track Your Amazon Order Using the Order Number
When you purchase something from Amazon, the excitement of waiting for your package is nearly as thrilling as choosing it in the first place! Thankfully, Amazon offers convenient tracking so you know exactly where your order is, all by using your order number. If you’re new to this process, or just want to understand it better, you’re in the right place.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about tracking an Amazon order using your order number—step by step.
What Is an Amazon Order Number and Why Is It Important?
Your Amazon order number is a unique string of digits and letters tied to each purchase you make. Think of it as your package’s personal ID card. This number unlocks all the details about your order—when it was placed, the shipping status, estimated delivery date, and more.
Key reasons your order number matters:
- Tracking: It lets you see exactly where your order is in the shipping process.
- Customer Service: You’ll need it if you contact Amazon about any issues.
- Returns/Exchanges: It’s necessary for initiating returns or replacements.
- Record Keeping: It helps you quickly reference past purchases.
Ways to Track Your Amazon Order Number
Amazon makes it easy to track your orders, but the process can look a bit different depending on whether you use their website, mobile app, or third-party services. Let’s explore the main methods:
1. Tracking Directly from Amazon’s Website
This is the most straightforward way to track your Amazon orders, and it doesn’t require any extra tools.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Log In to Your Amazon Account: Go to the main Amazon website and sign in with your username and password.
- Go to ‘Your Orders’: Hover over “Accounts & Lists” at the top, then select “Your Orders.”
- Find the Order: Look for the specific order you want to track. You’ll see the order number listed with the order details.
- Select ‘Track Package’: Click on the “Track Package” button next to your order. This will show you:
- Shipping carrier (like Amazon Logistics, FedEx, UPS)
- Tracking number
- Current package location
- Delivery status and estimated time
Tip: If you have several orders, you can use the search feature to type in your order number and find your order quickly.
2. Using the Amazon Mobile App
The Amazon app offers all the features of the full website in a palm-sized format.
To Track Your Order on the App:
- Open the Amazon app and log in.
- Tap the menu icon (☰) and choose “Your Orders.”
- Scroll or search for your order.
- Tap the “Track Package” button for detailed status updates.
The app often gives you real-time notifications—such as “Your package is out for delivery”—so you’re always in the loop.
3. Third-Party Tracking Services
Sometimes, you might want more detailed tracking, especially for international packages or orders fulfilled by external sellers. Services like Parcels and 17TRACK let you input Amazon tracking numbers (which you’ll find under your order’s details) to see extra information.
- Copy the tracking number from Amazon’s order details.
- Paste it into your chosen tracking service.
- Get updates about your package’s journey.
Note: These services require the specific carrier tracking number—not just the Amazon order number.
Step-by-Step: Finding and Using Your Amazon Order Number
Let’s walk through a practical sequence for using your Amazon order number to track your order, whether you’re shopping from Amazon.com, Amazon.co.uk, Amazon.in, or elsewhere.
Step 1: Locate Your Order Number
- After purchasing, find your order number in:
- Your confirmation email (“Order Confirmation”)
- Your Amazon account in “Your Orders” section
- The order number usually looks like: 123-1234567-1234567
Step 2: Access Your Orders
- On the Amazon website or app, go to “Your Orders.”
- You’ll see a list of your recent purchases, each with its order number and summary.
Step 3: Click “Track Package”
- Next to your order details, click or tap “Track Package.”
- You’ll be shown:
- Package status (shipped, in transit, out for delivery, delivered)
- Tracking updates (where your package is currently)
- The carrier and potentially the tracking code used by the shipping company
Step 4: Check for Delivery Updates
- Amazon updates your tracking page as soon as they receive new information from couriers.
- Keep checking back, or let the app send you notifications.
Step 5 (Optional): Use the Tracking Number on External Sites
- If Amazon’s information seems delayed or unclear, copy the carrier tracking number (not the Amazon order number).
- Go to a universal tracking site or directly to the courier’s website for possibly more detailed updates.
Benefits of Tracking Orders by Order Number
Tracking your Amazon package with your order number comes with several perks:
- Peace of Mind: You always know where your package is and when to expect it.
- Quick Issue Resolution: If something goes wrong, you have all the info support needs.
- Plan Ahead: Anticipate your delivery and make sure someone is home to receive it.
- Efficient Returns: Should you need to return something, referencing the order is a breeze.
Challenges and Limitations
Despite Amazon’s advanced system, you might run into some challenges:
- Delayed Tracking Updates: Occasionally, the shipping carrier’s system may not update immediately, causing tracking info to lag.
- Third-Party Sellers: Some sellers may use carriers that do not provide detailed tracking.
- International Shipping: Packages moving between countries may change carriers, making tracking less consistent.
- Order Number vs. Tracking Number Confusion: Remember, the Amazon order number helps you locate your order within Amazon, but the actual shipping carrier might have a different tracking number you’ll need for external sites.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
To make sure the tracking process is smooth and stress-free, try these tips:
- Save Confirmation Emails: Your order number is always in your confirmation email. Don’t delete it until your item arrives safely.
- Check Your Address Carefully: Correcting address issues before your order ships prevents delivery delays.
- Use the Mobile App: Enable notifications for real-time tracking updates and delivery alerts.
- Sign Up for Amazon Prime: Prime deliveries usually get priority tracking and faster shipping.
- Track High-Value Items Closely: For expensive or sensitive packages, check tracking daily, and consider being home on delivery day.
Cost Tips Related to Shipping
Tracking your Amazon order by order number is FREE. There are no fees involved with checking your order’s status on Amazon’s site or app.
However, consider these tips to manage shipping costs:
- Amazon Prime: Members often enjoy free two-day or next-day shipping on many items.
- Combine Orders: Group items together to qualify for free shipping or reduce the number of deliveries.
- Choose Standard Shipping for Less Urgent Orders: If you’re not in a hurry, this may save money.
- Watch for Shipping Promotions: During holidays, Amazon may offer free shipping for non-Prime members over a certain amount.
For international orders, be aware of possible import duties or taxes. These are not included in Amazon’s shipping fees, so review your total costs before confirming your order.
Common Questions About Tracking Amazon Orders
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I find my Amazon order number?
You’ll find your Amazon order number in the confirmation email sent after your purchase or in the “Your Orders” section of your Amazon account. Look for a string of numbers and dashes grouped like this: 123-1234567-1234567.
2. What’s the difference between an order number and a tracking number?
The order number is a unique code for YOUR transaction on Amazon. The tracking number is issued by the shipping carrier (like UPS or FedEx) and tracks your package’s physical movement. You use the order number to find order details and the tracking number for courier-specific tracking.
3. What should I do if tracking information isn’t updating?
Occasionally, tracking info can lag while packages move between carriers or before a courier scans the item. If there is no update for more than 48 hours, contact Amazon customer service for assistance. In most cases, updates appear closer to the expected delivery date.
4. Can I track third-party seller orders with my order number?
Yes and no. You can see order status in your Amazon account using your order number. However, detailed tracking may only be available if the seller uses a traceable shipping option. Sometimes, you’ll need the separate tracking number provided by the seller for further details.
5. Is it possible to track Amazon orders without logging in?
For your security, Amazon requires you to log in to see individual order and tracking details. If someone else purchased the item for you, ask them to share the tracking link or status. Some email notifications have “Track your package” links, but these usually require authentication.
In Summary
Tracking your Amazon order using your order number is simple and efficient. Whether on the website, mobile app, or using tracking numbers with external services, you stay informed about your package’s journey every step of the way. Remember the difference between order and tracking numbers, keep your account details handy, and enjoy the anticipation—because your next package is just around the corner!
With these insights, you’ll never have to wonder “Where’s my stuff?” again. Happy shopping—and even happier tracking!
