How do I track orders and share tracking links with customers from Shopify?

What order tracking means in Shopify

Tracking orders in Shopify means adding tracking numbers to shipped orders so both you and your customers can follow shipment progress in real time. Once tracking is added, Shopify automatically sends your customer a shipping confirmation email with a live tracking link.

How tracking works after a customer places an order

After you ship an order, you add the tracking number in Shopify. Shopify automatically detects the shipping carrier, creates a tracking link, and emails it to your customer. Customers can then view delivery progress on the order status page and on the carrier’s website.

Why tracking is important for your store

• Reduces “Where is my order” support requests.
• Builds trust by showing clear delivery progress.
• Helps prevent disputes with delivery proof.
• Saves time with automatic notifications.

Adding tracking numbers to orders

1. Go to Orders in your Shopify admin.
2. Open the order you want to update.
3. In the Fulfilled section, click Add tracking.
4. Enter the tracking number from your shipping provider.
5. Confirm the carrier or select it manually if not detected.
6. Choose whether to notify the customer now. By default, customers receive an email. Deselect Send a notification to the customer if you want to add tracking without sending an email yet.
7. Click Save.

Adding multiple tracking numbers to one order

If items are shipped separately, click Add another tracking number and enter each number before saving. All tracking numbers must belong to the same carrier.

Editing or updating tracking information

1. Go to Orders and open the order.
2. In the Fulfilled section, click … (three dots) and choose Edit tracking.
3. Update the tracking number or carrier.
4. Save your changes.

What your customers see

• Current delivery status.
• Estimated delivery date.
• Carrier name and tracking number.
• Live shipment updates.
• Link to track on the carrier’s website.
• Direct access to your store for support.

Where customers can find their tracking links

• Shipping confirmation email.
• Order status page link.
• Customer account login.

Checking shipment progress in your admin

1. Go to Orders.
2. Open the order.
3. Click the tracking number in the Fulfilled section to open the carrier tracking page.

Using the Shop app for better tracking

1. Go to Sales channels → Shop.
2. Open Settings.
3. Under Track with Shop, click Manage in checkout settings.
4. Under Customer contact method, select Show a link to download the Shop app.
5. Click Save.

The Shop app sends push notifications and shows live delivery maps for supported carriers.

Best practices for accurate tracking

• Add tracking as soon as the order ships.
• Confirm the correct carrier is selected.
• Double-check tracking numbers before saving.
• Communicate delivery timelines clearly.
• Use supported carriers for real-time updates such as UPS, FedEx, USPS, DHL, and Canada Post.

Troubleshooting tracking issues

Final advice for smooth post-purchase tracking

Always add tracking within 24 hours of shipping, verify accuracy, and enable the Shop app for better customer updates. Using regional carriers and local fulfillment partners also improves delivery speed and customer satisfaction.