In the concept of logistics services, real-time shipment tracking represents different concepts for logistics service providers and merchants respectively. Logistics service providers use a series of technologies such as GPS to track goods in real time, while merchants and consumers can monitor the real-time status of the entire shipment.
For Merchants and Shoppers
Real-time shipment tracking involves monitoring the movement and status of a shipment in real-time. It provides up-to-date and accurate information to senders and recipients.
Carriers usually employ shipment tracking systems like AfterShip Tracking that offer instant information about the status of the shipments, including their arrival time. This not only ensures that the recipients receive prompt notifications regarding any issues but also enhances the real-time tracking experience through API integration solutions.
For Carriers
Real-time shipment tracking is an innovative technology that allows you to track products, packages, people, or vehicles in real-time using GPS and logistics databases.
Unlike the traditional method of tracking shipments, which can be unreliable and require human intervention, real-time shipment tracking offers accurate and up-to-date information about the status of your shipment at any given time.
How does Real-Time Shipment Tracking Work?
To begin with, real-time shipment tracking is made possible through the transportation technology employed by the carriers.
Real-time shipment tracking relies on key technological enablers such as GPS technology, sensor technology, and cloud-based tracking systems.
- GPS technology allows shipping companies to track their vehicles and monitor package delivery in real-time. This enables customers to have precise information about the whereabouts of their packages and the expected arrival time.
- Sensor technology involves attaching sensors to packages to gather data throughout the transit process. This data is then sent to a central platform that provides real-time information about the package's location, movement, temperature, and condition.
- Cloud computing plays a crucial role by storing large amounts of data in a centralized system, improving visibility, and facilitating real-time tracking of shipments.
One of the primary approaches for incorporating shipment tracking functionality is through the utilization of an API (Application Programming Interface). By operating behind the scenes, a shipping API retrieves data from external servers and presents it to customers, enabling them to conveniently access and view pertinent shipping information in real time.
What is the Value of Real-Time Shipment Tracking?
Real-time shipment tracking offers several valuable benefits for businesses:
- Improved visibility: You can easily monitor your products at each step of their journey, leading to better control over your supply chain.
- Improved safety and security: Real-time tracking enables you to closely monitor the security and integrity of your shipments, reducing the risk of theft or damage.
- Competitive advantage: Implementing real-time shipment tracking can give you an edge in the industry by offering superior service and responsiveness compared to competitors.
- Enhanced customer service: By providing accurate and up-to-date information about shipments, you can offer exceptional customer experiences and improve satisfaction.
- Better inventory management: With real-time tracking, you can optimize inventory levels, reduce waste, and avoid stockouts or overstocking.
- Faster identification of delays: Real-time information allows you to identify delays or bottlenecks in the shipping process promptly, enabling you to take necessary actions to mitigate them.
What is the Difference between Real-Time Shipment Tracking and Traditional Method of Shipment Tracking?
The traditional method of shipment tracking typically involves assigning tracking numbers to packages and tracing them through websites or customer service representatives, which is often unreliable and doesn't provide accurate, up-to-date information about the package's location.
Updates are only made when a package reaches a specific destination, causing delays in knowing its exact whereabouts during transit. Customers are often left with limited visibility until the package has already arrived.
In contrast, real-time shipment tracking offers continuous updates, allowing you to know the current location, movement, and status of your package at any given time. It provides a more reliable and transparent tracking experience, improving customer satisfaction and operational efficiency.
I’m a Merchant, How Can I Track My Shipment in Real Time?
Tech providers connect with various carriers and tracking systems, acting as a centralized source of tracking information. By utilizing an API connection, you can monitor carrier delivery performance and display the corresponding tracking details on your platform, whether it's an eCommerce tracking module or any other system.
AfterShip offers direct integration with your store. It automatically imports shipment details into the system and provides alerts at each stage of the transit journey, reducing the need for repetitive customer service inquiries.
Additionally, AfterShip offers a tracking widget called Track Button that can be easily added to your website using a few lines of code. By incorporating the Track Button on your site, visitors can simply enter their tracking number to track their shipment.
I’m a Shopper, How Can I Track My Package in Real Time?
Track your package conveniently with our AfterShip Tracking Page. Our shipment tracking service stands out for its simplicity, requiring only a tracking number to get started. Say goodbye to the hassle of guessing which carrier to use or manually tracking with multiple carriers. Here's an easy step-by-step tutorial:
- To find your tracking number, please refer to your email or any confirmation messages you received when placing your order.
- For hassle-free tracking, you can visit our AfterShip Tracking Page. With just one click, you'll be able to effortlessly track packages from multiple shipping carriers.
- Once you're on the AfterShip Tracking Page, you'll see a search bar where you can accurately enter your tracking number. Simply type it in and click on the "Track" button.
- After entering your tracking number, you'll be directed to an updated page displaying the most recent status of your order. You'll find valuable information such as the package's last known location and an estimated delivery date based on the available data.