Last Updated: August 20, 2023
We’ve all experienced the excitement of tracking a package, only to be disappointed by a non-functional UPS tracking number.
Whether you’re a business owner ensuring customer orders are fulfilled, or an excited shopper waiting for a personal package, knowing how to handle such situations is essential.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do if your UPS tracking number isn’t working.
Wait For A Few Hours
It might only be active after you’ve received a tracking number. After a package is shipped, the UPS system might take some time to update and reflect the latest status. Give it a few hours, and then check again.
Double-Check The Number
It might seem obvious, but typos happen! Ensure you’ve entered the correct tracking number without any errors. If copying and pasting the number, be cautious of accidental spaces at the beginning or end.
Confirm With The Sender
If you cannot track your package after a day, contacting the sender is a good idea. They may have provided an incorrect tracking number, or they may not have shipped the package yet.
Try An Alternative Tracking Tool
While the official UPS website is the primary source for tracking shipments, third-party websites, and apps are available that provide tracking services. Sometimes, an alternative tool can yield results if there’s an issue with the official UPS tracking system.
Check Your Email
UPS often sends email updates about package movement. If you provided an email address during the ordering process, search your inbox (and spam folder) for any UPS notifications.
Contact UPS Customer Service
If all else fails, it’s time to contact UPS directly. Their customer service team can provide insights into any issues or provide updates on the shipment.
Remember to have your tracking number and other relevant details to expedite the process.
- Phone: You can call UPS’s customer service hotline.
- Live Chat: UPS website often features a live chat option for quick assistance.
- Social Media: Sometimes, reaching out via platforms like Twitter or Facebook can garner a swift response.
Stay Calm and Patient
Remember that during peak seasons like the holidays, delays or glitches in the tracking system might occur due to the high volume of packages. Stay calm and patient; your parcel will be coming to you more often than not.
Final Thoughts
While it can be stressful when your UPS tracking number isn’t working, following the above steps can provide clarity and peace of mind.
In the age of digital tracking and real-time updates, occasional hiccups are bound to happen. The key is to stay informed, be proactive, and keep in touch with both the sender and the carrier. Your eagerly awaited package will be in your hands before you know it.
FAQs on “What To Do If Your UPS Tracking Number Not Working”
Q: How long should I wait before assuming there’s an issue with my UPS tracking number?
A: If you’ve just received your tracking number, give it a few hours to update in the system. Sometimes it can take up to 24 hours for the status to reflect accurately.
Q: I’ve entered the tracking number multiple times, and it still doesn’t work. What could be wrong?
A: There may be a typo in the tracking number, or it still needs to be activated in the UPS system. Double-check the number and confirm with the sender if necessary.
Q: Can system outages affect UPS tracking services?
A: Yes. Like any online system, UPS tracking services can be affected by technical glitches or system outages. If you suspect this might be the case, you can check the UPS website for any notifications or use an alternative tracking tool.
Q: Are there peak times when tracking might be delayed?
A: During high-volume shipping periods, like the holidays, there might be slight delays in tracking updates due to the sheer number of processed packages.
Q: I received a notification from UPS, but the tracking number still needs to be fixed. What should I do?
A: Sometimes, the tracking system might lag behind email notifications. If you received a notification, it’s a sign that your package is in transit. Wait for a few more hours and check again.
Q: Can third-party sellers provide fake or incorrect UPS tracking numbers?
A: While reputable sellers typically provide accurate information, there are instances where third-party sellers, especially from unofficial platforms, might give inaccurate or fake tracking numbers. Always purchase from trusted sources and, if in doubt, contact the seller directly.
Q: Who should I contact if my tracking number hasn’t worked for several days?
A: If you’ve waited more than 48 hours and your tracking number still needs to be active, contact UPS customer service directly. They can provide insights into any potential issues.
Q: Is there any other way to track my package without a working tracking number?
A: The tracking number is the primary method for tracking shipments. However, if you have account-related queries or issues, you can contact UPS customer service with the relevant shipping details, and they can assist you further.
