UPS tracking: 1Z numbers, statuses and common problems

UPS is a global courier with its own network of drivers and of UPS Access Point pickup locations. Many UPS parcel tracking numbers share one recognisable format, though not all.

Where to find the tracking number

• •
  In the shipping confirmation email from the shop.
• •
  On the label, next to the large barcode.
• •
  In a delivery notification from UPS, if the sender gave UPS your email or phone.

What UPS numbers look like

Most UPS tracking numbers start with 1Z and have 18 characters in all, letters and digits, for example 1Z followed by 16 more characters. Freight shipments and some economy services use other formats. Some economy services hand the package to the postal service for the final delivery; the UPS tracking then shows the handover, and the postal service delivers it, sometimes with a postal tracking number of its own.

Common statuses

• •
  Label Created / Shipper created a label: UPS has the data but not the package yet; see what that stage means.
• •
  On the Way / In Transit: UPS has the package and it is progressing through its network.
• •
  Out for Delivery: on a vehicle for delivery today.
• •
  Delivered: often with the place where it was left, and sometimes a photo, depending on the service and the destination.
• •
  Delivery Attempted: nobody could receive it; UPS usually tries again or explains the next step in the event.
• •
  Delivered to / Held at UPS Access Point: ready for pickup at a local shop or locker; bring the details the notice asks for, and collect it within the time shown.
• •
  Exception: something interrupted the delivery: an address problem, weather, a missing customs payment or a damaged label. The event text says which.

Typical problems

• •
  Exceptions that need you: an incomplete address or import charges to pay. Follow the instructions on the UPS website, reached by typing its address yourself rather than through a link in an unexpected message.
• •
  A changed delivery date: UPS updates the estimate as the package moves; weather and peak seasons push it back.
• •
  Delivered but not found: see the delivered but not received checklist.