At a Glance
- Tracking basis
- Unique tracking number per consignment
- ETA
- Estimated time of arrival
- POD
- Proof of delivery (receipt with signature)
- Technology
- TMS, GPS telematics, barcode/QR scan
- Update frequency, freight
- 4–8 status events per consignment
How does consignment tracking work?
The basis of every tracking system is the tracking number – a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned at the time of booking. At every handling point the consignment is scanned and a status event is recorded. These events are transmitted in real time to the TMS (transport management system) and made visible to the customer through web portals or APIs.
Tracking number, POD and ETA
The tracking number is the key to consignment tracking. ETA (estimated time of arrival) is the expected arrival time, calculated dynamically from the vehicle position, the remaining route and traffic conditions. POD (proof of delivery) is the digital delivery receipt with date, time and the consignee's signature.
The difference: parcel vs freight tracking
Parcel services (DHL, UPS, FedEx) offer high-frequency, automated tracking with scan events at every handover point. In freight forwarding (general cargo, LTL, FTL) tracking is less granular: status events at collection, depot arrival, departure and delivery are standard. For FTL transports, modern forwarders offer live GPS tracking of the vehicle.
Proactive notifications and exception management
Advanced tracking systems send automatic email or SMS notifications on relevant status changes. Proactive exception management detects delays (caused by traffic or customs problems, for instance) and informs everyone involved automatically.
