How to Obtain a Tracking Number for Your Mail or Package

Proactively obtaining a tracking number is crucial whether you are sending a package, receiving one, or dealing with an e-commerce platform like AliExpress. This guide will help you understand the necessary steps and provide you with the best practices for tracking your mail or package from various shipping providers.

Understanding Tracking Numbers

A tracking number is a unique identifier provided by shipping carriers to monitor the status and location of a package. It allows you to keep track of its journey from the sender to the recipient. Tracking numbers are usually required for international shipments, high-value items, or any item where accurate and detailed visibility is essential.

USPS Tracking Numbers

The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers several methods to obtain a tracking number for your mail. Here's how you can do it:

At the Post Office Counter: Request a tracking number when mailing an item. The clerk will scan the barcode and provide you with a receipt that includes the tracking number. There may be a small additional fee for this service. Online USPS Click-n-Send: When using the USPS online service to print postage, you can also add tracking options. Once you purchase and print the label, the tracking number will be automatically generated. USPS Commercial Service Representatives: For large bulk mail send outs, commercial service representatives can help you request and assign tracking numbers to batches of mail items. This is particularly useful for high-volume businesses.

Other Shipping Providers

While USPS is a reliable option, it's important to note that other shipping providers may have their own methods of providing tracking numbers:

UPS and FedEx: If you are sending or receiving packages from these carriers, they will provide their own tracking numbers. It's advisable to use the tracking systems provided by these companies for accurate and detailed tracking information.

AliExpress Tracking

When you purchase items from AliExpress, the seller is responsible for providing a tracking number once the item has been shipped. However, not all shipping methods offered by AliExpress come with tracking systems, so it's always best to check with the seller if you want to ensure that you have a tracking number.

Proactively Requesting Tracking Details

To avoid any confusion or delays, it's recommended to request tracking details at the point of mailing or shipment. Proactively obtaining a tracking number ensures that you can monitor the status of your package or mail throughout the journey. Here are some additional tips:

Ask the Seller for Tracking: If you are ordering from an online platform like AliExpress, contact the seller to request the tracking number shortly after your order is shipped. Check the Seller’s Website: Some platforms provide tracking information directly on their website. Make sure to check for any available tracking links after placing your order.

Alternative Tracking Services

For those looking to save on shipping costs or find the best deals, here is a website that offers the latest coupons, promos, and deals to help you get your order at the lowest price:

Coupon Websites: Websites like RetailMeNot, , and Ibotta offer exclusive deals and discounts to customers. Using these resources can help you save money on shipping or get additional items for free.

Remember, obtaining a tracking number is a simple yet crucial step in ensuring that you can monitor the progress of your mail or package. Always be proactive in requesting this information to avoid any potential misunderstandings or delays.