Ecommerce Order Tracking: Essential Tools for Customer Satisfaction

Ecommerce order tracking is important for both shoppers and sellers. It helps shoppers plan for when the package will arrive. For sellers, it cuts down on customer service calls about order status. It also builds trust between buyers and sellers in the world of online shopping.

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of ecommerce order tracking, the technologies behind it, how to implement it on your online store, and its impact on customer satisfaction and business efficiency.

FAQ

Understanding ecommerce order tracking

Order tracking lets online shoppers see where their packages are and when they’ll arrive. It gives customers peace of mind and helps stores run more smoothly.

The importance of order tracking

Order tracking is key for online stores. It lets customers check their order status any time. This cuts down on customer service calls and emails. Stores can also spot shipping problems early and fix them fast.

Order tracking builds trust with customers. When they can see their package moving, they feel more confident about buying online. This can lead to more sales and happier customers who come back.

For stores, tracking data shows how well shipping partners are doing. This helps them pick the best shipping options and improve delivery times.

How order tracking enhances customer experience

Order tracking makes online shopping better for customers. They don’t have to wonder where their items are or when they’ll show up. Instead, they can check the status whenever they want.

This easy access to info cuts down on worry. Customers feel more in control of their purchase. They can plan better, knowing when to expect their package.

Clear tracking updates also help if there are delays. Customers can see what’s happening and adjust their plans. This open communication builds goodwill, even when things don’t go perfectly.

Tracking can also add excitement. As the package gets closer, customers get more eager to receive it. This positive feeling can make them want to shop with you again.

Order tracking technologies

Order tracking has come a long way thanks to new tools. These systems help online stores keep tabs on packages and share updates with customers. Let’s look at some key technologies used for ecommerce order tracking.

Barcode systems

Barcode systems use printed labels with lines and spaces to identify packages. Scanners read these codes at different points in the shipping process. This creates a digital record of where an item is and where it’s going.

Many shipping companies put barcodes on packages when they pick them up. They scan the codes again at sorting centers and delivery trucks. This lets them update the tracking info in real-time.

Barcodes are cheap to make and easy to use. That’s why they’re so common in order tracking. But they do have some limits. Someone has to manually scan each barcode to log its location.

GPS and RFID tracking

GPS tracking uses satellites to pinpoint a package’s exact location. This works well for tracking delivery trucks. RFID tags use radio waves to ID items from a distance. Both give more detailed info than barcodes.

GPS lets customers see their package moving on a map in real-time. RFID tags can track items inside warehouses without scanning each one by hand. These systems cost more than barcodes, but they’re getting cheaper.

Some companies now put GPS trackers right on valuable packages. This lets customers watch their orders move from start to finish. It’s great for peace of mind with expensive items.

Integration with ecommerce platforms

Modern order tracking systems link up with online store software. This makes it easy to share updates with customers. When you buy something, the store can email you a tracking number right away.

Many platforms show tracking info right on their website or app. You can log in and see where your stuff is without leaving the store’s site. Some even send text updates when your package moves.

This tight link between stores and shipping data helps in other ways too. Stores can spot trends in delivery times and plan better. They can also quickly fix issues if something goes wrong with an order.

Setting up order tracking

Order tracking helps online stores keep customers happy and manage shipments better. It gives shoppers updates on their packages and helps businesses spot problems early.

Choosing an order tracking solution

Look for a tracking system that fits your store’s needs and budget. Some popular options are ShipStation, AfterShip, or built-in tracking options. Compare features like real-time updates, custom branding, and integration with your shipping carriers.

Pick a solution that’s easy to use and works with your current systems. Make sure it can handle your order volume and won’t slow down your site. Good customer support is also key in case you need help.

Implementing tracking on your ecommerce site

Once you’ve picked a tracking system, add it to your store. Most solutions have step-by-step guides to help you set things up. You’ll usually need to connect your store to the tracking software and add some code to your site.

Put a Track Order button in a clear spot on your site, like the header or footer. Make sure customers can easily find and use it. You can also add tracking info to order confirmation emails.

Test the system before going live. Place test orders and track them to make sure everything works right. Train your team on how to use the new ecommerce order tracking system so they can help customers.

The order fulfillment process

Ecommerce order tracking helps online stores deliver products to customers. The process involves several key steps from when a customer places an order to when they receive it.

Order reception and confirmation

When a customer buys something from your online store, your system gets the order details. This includes:

• What the customer bought
• How many items they ordered
• Where to ship the products
• How the customer wants to pay

Your system then checks if the items are in stock. If they are, it sends an email to the customer. This email says their order was received and gives them an order number.

Some stores use software that does this automatically. Others may have staff who review orders before confirming them.

Inventory management and order preparation

After confirming an order, your team needs to get it ready. This step involves:

1. Finding the items in your warehouse
2. Picking them from shelves
3. Packing them safely

Good inventory management is key. You need to know what’s in stock and where it is. This helps you fill orders fast and avoid problems.

Many stores use barcode scanners to track items. This makes sure the right products go in each box. It also updates your stock levels automatically.

Shipping and handling procedures

Once an order is packed, it’s time to ship it. Here’s what happens:

1. Choose a shipping method based on the customer’s choice
2. Print a shipping label with the address
3. Give the package to the shipping company

You can use ecommerce order tracking to keep customers updated. This lets them see where their package is and when it will arrive.

Some stores pack and ship orders themselves. Others use fulfillment centers that do this work for them. Either way, the goal is to get orders to customers quickly and safely.

Communicating with customers

Keeping customers informed about their orders is key to a good shopping experience. Regular updates help build trust and reduce support requests.

Order confirmation emails

After a purchase, send an email right away. Include the order number, items bought, and total cost. Add expected shipping dates and a link to track the order. This email reassures customers their order went through. It also gives them a record of what they bought.

Some stores add product care tips or suggest related items. Keep the email simple and easy to read. Use a clear subject line like “Your order #12345 is confirmed.” Make sure the sender name is your store, not a generic email address.

Real-time tracking updates

Give customers a way to check their order status anytime. Many people like to know where their package is. You can send texts or emails when the order ships. Let them know when it’s out for delivery too.

Use a tracking page on your website. Show each step of the process, from packing to shipping. Add an estimated delivery date if you can. Some stores use maps to show where the package is. This helps customers plan for delivery.

Handling customer inquiries

Even with good ecommerce order tracking, customers may still have questions. Make it easy for them to get help. Offer multiple ways to contact you, like email, chat, or phone.

Train your team to answer common questions about orders. They should know how to look up order status and shipping info. Create a FAQ page about orders and shipping. This can cut down on simple questions.

When customers do reach out, respond quickly. Give clear, helpful answers. If there’s a problem, explain how you’ll fix it. Good service can turn a worried customer into a loyal one.

Ecommerce platforms and order tracking

Many online stores offer ways to track orders. These tracking features can be built into the platform itself or added through extra tools.

Native order tracking features

Popular ecommerce platforms like WooCommerce have order tracking options built in. These let customers see where their package is after they buy something.

Shopify has a page that shows order status updates. Customers can check if their order is processing, shipped, or delivered. WooCommerce works with shipping companies to give real-time tracking info.

Some platforms let you customize the tracking page. You can add your store’s logo and colors. This helps customers feel like they’re still on your site when checking their order.

Third-party tracking apps and plugins

If you need more tracking features, you can use apps made by other companies. These plug into your store to give better tracking.

AfterShip is a popular choice. It works with over 700 shipping carriers worldwide. AfterShip can send emails and text messages with tracking updates.

Parcel Panel is another option. It’s made for Shopify and WooCommerce stores. Parcel Panel shows a map of where the package is and when it might arrive.

These apps often have more features than what comes with your store platform. They can give estimated delivery dates and let customers track returns too.

Troubleshooting common tracking issues

Ecommerce order tracking can sometimes hit snags. Let’s look at a few common problems and how to fix them.

Delayed or lost shipments

When a package doesn’t show up on time, start by checking the tracking number. Make sure it’s correct and active. If it is, contact the carrier for more info. They can often tell you if there’s a hold-up or if the package is lost.

If the carrier can’t help, reach out to the seller. Many stores have policies for late or missing items. They might send a replacement or give you a refund.

Keep all your order emails and tracking info. This helps if you need to file a claim. Don’t forget to check your building’s mailroom or with neighbors. Sometimes packages end up in odd spots.

Incorrect tracking information

Wrong tracking details can be frustrating. First, double-check that you’re looking at the right order. It’s easy to mix up numbers if you shop a lot.

If the info is still off, contact the seller right away. They can check if there was a mix-up when the label was made. Sometimes, tracking numbers get reused, which can cause confusion.

Give the tracking a day or two to update. Systems don’t always refresh instantly. If nothing changes, ask the seller to look into it. They can often fix the problem or give you the right info.

Address verification problems

Address issues can throw off your whole order. Always double-check your shipping info before you buy. Even small typos can cause big delays.

If you spot a mistake after ordering, contact the seller fast. Many can update the address if the package hasn’t shipped yet. Some carriers also let you change the address online, but there might be a fee.

Use the exact address format the post office prefers. This includes correct abbreviations and zip codes. If you’re not sure, look up your address on the post office website. They’ll show you the best way to write it out.

Impact of tracking on returns and exchanges

Tracking orders can make a big difference in how returns and exchanges work for online stores. When you can see where your package is, you’re less likely to ask for a return. This is because you know when to expect your item.

Good tracking also helps with exchanges. If you need a different size or color, you can see if your first order has arrived. This makes it easier to plan the exchange.

Some benefits of order tracking for returns:

• Fewer unnecessary returns 
• Faster exchange process 
• Less confusion about delivery times

Ecommerce order tracking can cut down on returns caused by slow shipping. When you know your package is on its way, you’re more patient. This means fewer people ask for refunds just because an order seems late.

Tracking also helps stores handle returns better. They can see when items are sent back and plan for restocking. This keeps inventory up-to-date and helps other customers get what they want faster.

For exchanges, tracking is key. It lets you and the store know the best time to send out the new item. This makes the whole process smoother and faster for everyone.

Future trends in ecommerce order tracking

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning will make order tracking smarter. These tools can predict delivery times more accurately and spot issues before they cause delays. You’ll get better estimates of when your package will arrive.

Real-time tracking is becoming more common. Many online stores now let you see exactly where your order is at any moment. This gives you peace of mind and helps you plan for deliveries.

Voice assistants like Alexa or Siri may soon help with ecommerce order tracking. You could ask “Where’s my package?” and get an instant update without touching your phone or computer.

Blockchain technology could make tracking more secure and transparent. It creates a record that can’t be changed, so you always know your tracking info is correct.

Drone and autonomous vehicle deliveries may change how orders are tracked. These new delivery methods will need special tracking systems to keep you informed.

Augmented reality might let you “see” your package’s journey. You could use your phone to view a 3D map showing where your order has been and where it’s going next.

These advances aim to give you more control and information about your online purchases. As ecommerce grows, expect order tracking to become even more user-friendly and precise.

Conclusion 

Ecommerce order tracking has become an indispensable tool for both customers and businesses in the digital marketplace. By offering real-time visibility into the shipping process, it alleviates customer anxieties and reduces inquiries about order statuses. Advanced technologies like barcode systems, GPS, and RFID have significantly enhanced tracking capabilities, providing more accurate and timely updates. 

Effective integration of these systems not only streamlines the fulfillment process but also builds trust and loyalty among customers. As ecommerce continues to evolve, embracing robust order tracking solutions is essential for businesses aiming to improve customer satisfaction, optimize operations, and stay competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.