What is UPS Tracking by Reference?
If you have ever shipped a package or received one, you are likely familiar with UPS. It is one of the largest shipping and logistics companies in the world. One of the features offered by UPS is tracking by reference. Let’s look at what UPS tracking by reference is and how it works.
UPS is an American multinational package delivery and supply chain management company. It was founded in 1907 and is headquartered in Sandy Springs, Georgia.
UPS delivers more than 21 million packages and documents every day to more than 220 countries and territories worldwide.
UPS offers a range of shipping options and services to meet the needs of businesses and individuals.
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What is UPS Tracking by Reference?
UPS tracking by reference is a service provided by UPS that allows customers to track packages using a reference number instead of a tracking number.
The reference number is a unique identifier assigned by the shipper to each package. It can be a customer’s order number, purchase order number, or any other unique identifier.
This service is particularly useful for businesses that ship large volumes of packages with unique reference numbers. When a package is shipped using UPS, the shipper assigns a reference number to the package.
The shipper can then provide the reference number to the recipient, who can use it to track the package using the UPS website or mobile app.
UPS will search for the package using the reference number and provide updates on the package’s status, including when it is picked up, in transit, and delivered.
How to Use UPS Tracking by Reference
To use UPS tracking by reference, customers need to have a valid reference number provided by the shipper.
Customers can then visit the UPS website or mobile app and enter the reference number in the tracking field.
UPS will search for the package using the reference number and provide updates on the package’s status.
Customers can also sign up for UPS My Choice, a free service that provides additional package tracking and delivery options.
Merits and Demerits of UPS Tracking by Reference
UPS tracking by reference offers several benefits for businesses and individuals. Firstly, it allows customers to track packages using a reference number instead of a tracking number, making it easier to manage large volumes of packages.
Secondly, it allows customers to use their own reference numbers, such as order numbers or purchase order numbers, to track packages.
This can help businesses to link packages to specific orders or shipments. Finally, UPS tracking by reference provides real-time updates on the package’s status, including when it is picked up, in transit, and delivered.
While UPS tracking by reference offers many benefits, there are some limitations to be aware of. Firstly, not all packages are eligible for tracking by reference.
Packages that are shipped using UPS Mail Innovations, UPS SurePost, or UPS Worldwide Economy are not eligible for tracking by reference.
Secondly, reference numbers must be provided by the shipper and cannot be created by the recipient. Finally, reference numbers must be unique and cannot be used to track multiple packages.
Tips for Using UPS Tracking by Reference
To get the most out of UPS tracking by reference, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Make sure you have a valid reference number provided by the shipper.
2. Check with the shipper to ensure the reference number is unique and not being used for other packages.
3. Use UPS My Choice to receive additional package tracking and delivery options.
4. If your package is not updating on the UPS website, wait a few hours and check again. Sometimes there can be delays in updating the tracking information.
5. If you are experiencing issues with UPS tracking by reference, contact UPS customer service for assistance.
If you are experiencing issues with UPS tracking by reference, such as the package not updating or being unable to find the package using the reference number, there are several steps you can take:
1. Wait a few hours and check again. Sometimes there can be delays in updating the tracking information.
2. Check with the shipper to ensure the reference number is correct and unique.
3. Contact UPS customer service for assistance. They can provide additional information and help resolve any issues.
Conclusion
UPS tracking by reference is a convenient service offered by UPS that allows customers to track packages using a unique reference number provided by the shipper.
This service is particularly useful for businesses that ship large volumes of packages with unique reference numbers.
While there are some limitations to the service, such as not being available for all packages, UPS tracking by reference, provides real-time updates on the package’s status and is a valuable tool for managing shipments.