Tracking a package or a large freight shipment should be a straightforward process that provides peace of mind. CEVA Logistics is one of the world’s leading supply chain management companies, providing end-to-end solutions for both small businesses and large corporations. Whether you are waiting for an international air freight delivery or a domestic ground shipment, knowing exactly where your items are located is essential for planning and security.
Using the Online Tracking Tool
The most efficient way to monitor your shipment is through the official online tracking portal. This tool is designed to provide real-time updates on the status and location of your goods. To get started, you will need your unique tracking or reference number provided at the time of booking.
Once you have your number, simply navigate to the tracking section of the logistics provider’s website. Enter the number into the search field and click the track button. The system will then display the most recent scans, showing you when the shipment left the warehouse, its current transit point, and the estimated delivery date.
Understanding Your Tracking Numbers
Different types of shipments use different identification formats. Depending on how your goods are being moved, you might be looking for a specific type of reference number. Understanding these can help you find the right information more quickly.
Air Waybill (AWB)
If your shipment is traveling via air, it will be assigned an Air Waybill. This is a non-negotiable document that serves as a receipt of goods by an airline and a contract of carriage between the shipper and the carrier. It typically consists of an 11-digit number that you can use to track the flight progress.
Bill of Lading (BOL)
For ocean freight or ground transportation, the Bill of Lading is the primary document used. It acts as a detailed list of a ship’s cargo in the form of a receipt given by the master of the ship to the person consigning the goods. You can often use the BOL number to track the container’s journey across the sea or through port terminals.
Container Numbers
In large-scale ocean shipping, you may be provided with a container number. This is a unique alpha-numeric code consisting of four letters and seven numbers. This code allows you to track the specific metal box your goods are stored in, regardless of which vessel is currently carrying it.
CEVA Logistics Supply Chain Services
Beyond simple tracking, many users interact with logistics providers to manage complex supply chain needs. Understanding the range of services available can help you better utilize the tools at your disposal.
Air Freight Solutions
Air freight is the fastest way to move goods globally. Services often include consolidated flights, deferred services for cost savings, and specialized handling for temperature-sensitive or high-value items. Tracking for air freight is usually updated every time the cargo passes through a major airport hub.
Ocean Freight Services
For larger volumes where speed is less critical than cost, ocean freight is the standard choice. Providers offer Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) options. Because ocean travel takes longer, tracking updates may occur less frequently, often only when the ship departs or arrives at a port.
Ground Transportation
Ground shipping covers road and rail transport. This is commonly used for domestic deliveries or for the “final mile” of an international shipment. Ground tracking is often very detailed, providing updates as the truck moves through various distribution centers and local terminals.
Contract Logistics
Contract logistics involves more than just moving items from point A to point B. It includes warehousing, packaging, and inventory management. Businesses using these services often have access to a more advanced dashboard that shows stock levels and order fulfillment status in addition to basic tracking.
Common Tracking Statuses Explained
When you check your shipment status, you will encounter several different terms. Knowing what these mean can help you understand exactly what is happening with your delivery.
- In Transit: Your shipment is currently moving between locations. It is on a truck, plane, or ship and is heading toward the next destination.
- Arrived at Facility: The shipment has reached a sorting center or a port. It will be processed here before moving to the next leg of its journey.
- Customs Clearance: For international shipments, this status means the goods are being inspected by government authorities. This process can sometimes cause delays that are outside the carrier’s control.
- Out for Delivery: This usually applies to ground shipping and means your package is on the local delivery vehicle and should arrive by the end of the day.
- Delivered: The shipment has reached its final destination and has been signed for or left in a secure location.
What to Do If Your Shipment Is Delayed
Delays can happen for a variety of reasons, including weather conditions, mechanical issues, or customs hold-ups. If your tracking status hasn’t updated in several days, the first step is to check for any service alerts on the provider’s website. These alerts often detail major disruptions like storms or strikes.
If there are no alerts and your shipment is past its estimated delivery date, you should contact the sender first. If you are the sender, you can reach out to customer service with your reference number ready. They can provide more internal details that might not be visible on the public tracking page.
Contacting Customer Support
Sometimes, technology isn’t enough, and you need to speak with a human. Most global logistics companies offer localized support. This means you can call a service center in your specific country or region to get help in your preferred language.
When calling, ensure you have your account number, tracking number, and the origin/destination addresses ready. This will help the representative find your file quickly and provide the most accurate assistance possible. Many providers also offer live chat or email support for non-urgent inquiries.
Conclusion
Managing your shipments and understanding the logistics process doesn’t have to be complicated. By using the right tracking numbers and knowing what each status update means, you can stay informed about your goods every step of the way. Whether you are shipping a single package or managing a global supply chain, these tools are designed to make the process transparent and reliable.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on international shipping regulations, how to calculate freight costs, and tips for secure packaging to ensure your items arrive safely and on time.