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 can ease your worries and help you plan your day.
Whether your purchase is a must-have gadget or a long-awaited gift, staying updated on its journey is essential. In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to track your Amazon tracking number, step by step, and share some handy tips to get the most accurate updates.
How to Track an Amazon Tracking Number: A Complete Guide
Tracking your Amazon package is crucial for peace of mind. You probably want to know exactly where your order is, when it will arrive, and if there are any delays. Fortunately, Amazon has made the tracking process straightforward—but sometimes those “TBA” tracking numbers or third-party shipments can seem a little mysterious. Let’s break it all down clearly, step by step.
Understanding Amazon Tracking Numbers
When you order something from Amazon, you’ll get a tracking number once your package ships. This tracking number allows you to see your package’s progress from the warehouse to your doorstep.
Common Types of Amazon Tracking Numbers
- Amazon Logistics (TBA tracking numbers): These begin with “TBA” and are delivered directly by Amazon’s own delivery network.
- Carrier tracking numbers: Some packages are shipped with carriers like UPS, FedEx, USPS, or DHL. Their numbers have different formats.
- Third-party seller shipments: If you bought from a marketplace seller, they might use other regional couriers.
Each of these tracking numbers works a bit differently, but they all let you follow your order’s journey.
Step-by-Step: How to Track Your Amazon Order
Tracking your Amazon order is usually simple. Here’s how:
1. Log Into Your Amazon Account
- Open the Amazon website or mobile app.
- Sign in with your account credentials.
2. Access “Your Orders”
- On desktop: Hover over “Accounts & Lists” and click on “Your Orders.”
- On mobile: Tap the menu button (three lines), then select “Your Orders.”
3. Find the Order You Want to Track
- Browse your order list.
- Each order will show its current status, like “Shipped,” “Out for Delivery,” or “Delivered.”
4. Click “Track Package”
- Click the “Track Package” button next to the order.
- You’ll see a timeline displaying its progress, current location, and estimated delivery date.
- For some packages, you can even view a real-time map when the driver is nearby.
5. Using Your Tracking Number Elsewhere (for TBA Numbers or Third-Party Carriers)
If your tracking number starts with “TBA,” it’s handled by Amazon Logistics. These tracking numbers can generally only be tracked on Amazon’s platforms.
If your order uses major couriers:
– Copy the tracking number from Amazon.
– Go to the carrier’s official tracking site (UPS, FedEx, USPS, DHL, etc.).
– Paste the tracking number to see detailed updates.
Tip: Packages handled by Amazon Logistics may sometimes be tracked using specialized parcel tracking apps or websites. However, the most accurate information is almost always found directly on Amazon’s own tracking page.
Challenges and Limitations
Although Amazon tracking is excellent, sometimes you may encounter challenges:
Tracking “TBA” Numbers Externally
- “TBA” numbers are exclusive to Amazon Logistics and usually can’t be tracked on third-party shipping websites. Stick with Amazon’s own site or app for updates.
Tracking Third-Party Seller Shipments
- Some third-party sellers use lesser-known regional carriers, making tracking less consistent. The tracking number format may not work on Amazon’s systems but can sometimes be checked on the carrier’s website.
Delayed Tracking Updates
- Sometimes tracking info isn’t updated immediately. This can happen between tracking scans or with international shipments.
Benefits of Tracking Your Amazon Package
Being able to track your Amazon package offers several important advantages:
- Peace of mind: You always know where your package is.
- Accurate delivery estimates: Helps you plan your day around its arrival.
- Quick problem-solving: If a delay or problem occurs, you can spot it early.
- Delivery photos: Many Amazon Logistics deliveries include a photo of your package at the drop-off location.
- Contactless tracking: Real-time updates mean you can avoid being surprised by a delivery.
Practical Tips and Best Practices
Getting the most out of Amazon’s tracking capabilities can make your shopping much smoother.
Double-Check Delivery Address
- Ensure your shipping address is correct before placing your order.
- Edit any mistakes as soon as possible to prevent misdelivery.
Use the Amazon App
- The Amazon app sends real-time push notifications about your order status.
- You can see live maps of the final miles as your package approaches for Amazon Logistics deliveries.
Check Your Email
- Amazon often sends shipping notifications with tracking links, so you don’t even have to log in.
- If you miss a delivery, Amazon will email you about the next steps or options.
Delivery Instructions
- Leave specific drop-off instructions for the driver (e.g., “Leave behind the plant on porch”).
- This reduces risk of a missed delivery or misplaced package.
Use Amazon Hub or Locker
- Choose an Amazon Locker or secured pickup point at checkout if you’re worried about porch theft.
- You’ll be notified when the package is ready for pickup.
Tracking Amazon Orders Shipped Internationally
If you’re tracking a package coming from or going to another country:
- Tracking may start with the overseas carrier and then transfer to a local courier once the package reaches your country.
- Updates can sometimes lag during customs clearance or handovers.
- Amazon typically provides a unified tracking timeline so you can follow the entire journey.
Cost Tips for International Shipping
- Amazon often provides estimated import fees and shipping costs upfront. Check these before purchasing.
- Prime members in eligible countries might benefit from free or discounted international shipping on select items.
- Consolidate multiple items in one order to save on shipping costs.
What To Do If Tracking Shows a Problem
If your tracking shows an issue, don’t panic. Try the following:
- Wait a few hours: Sometimes updates can be delayed due to scanning or technical issues.
- Check around your property: Packages may be left at side doors, with neighbors, or in hidden spots for safety.
- Contact Amazon Support: Use the “Help” section on the Amazon site or app to report missing or delayed orders.
- Check for delivery photos: Amazon sometimes provides a proof-of-delivery photo for Logistics shipments.
How Other Tracking Tools Work
You might see parcel tracker tools and apps that claim to track Amazon deliveries. Here’s how they compare:
- Third-party tracking apps: Some can recognize major carrier tracking numbers, but “TBA” Amazon shipments will almost always show no results outside of Amazon’s own tracking.
- Parcel mapping services: Sites that create visual maps from tracking numbers work best with public carriers, not with Amazon Logistics.
- Why choose Amazon’s system? For the most accurate, real-time information about your order, always use Amazon’s built-in tools.
Concluding Summary
Tracking your Amazon package is simple and reliable through the website or app. Remember:
– Use Amazon’s own “Your Orders” section for the most up-to-date information, especially for “TBA” Amazon Logistics numbers.
– For major carrier shipments, the tracking number works on the carrier’s own website, too.
– Don’t be alarmed by brief delays in updates — this is common and often resolves quickly.
– Leverage best practices like delivery instructions, Amazon Lockers, and push notifications to stay on top of your deliveries.
By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy a stress-free online shopping experience and never wonder where your package is again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where do I find my Amazon tracking number?
You can find your Amazon tracking number in the confirmation email sent after your item ships or by checking your “Your Orders” section on the Amazon website or app. Click on your order to see tracking details, including the tracking number.
2. What is a “TBA” tracking number and where can I track it?
A “TBA” tracking number is used by Amazon Logistics for packages delivered by Amazon’s drivers. These numbers can only be tracked on Amazon’s website or app; third-party tracking sites usually will not recognize them.
3. Why does my tracking information seem delayed or missing?
Tracking updates can be delayed if your package hasn’t been scanned yet or is in transit between locations. For international or rural deliveries, updates may appear less frequently. If tracking hasn’t updated for more than 48 hours, contact Amazon Customer Service.
4. How can I track an Amazon order shipped by a third-party seller?
Third-party sellers sometimes use different regional couriers. Your Amazon order page will list the tracking number and sometimes provide a direct tracking link. If not, copy the tracking number and look up the courier’s website for more information.
5. What should I do if my package says “delivered” but I haven’t received it?
First, check around your delivery location and with neighbors. Look for delivery photos inside your tracking page. If you still can’t find your package, contact Amazon Customer Service for assistance—they can help locate the package or arrange a replacement or refund.
