How tracking works
When you create a shipping label:- Tracking number is generated by the carrier
- Tracking link is created for real-time package tracking
- Information is stored in the WooCommerce order
- Customer notifications can be sent automatically
Tracking notification options
You have several options for providing tracking information to customers:Option 1: WooCommerce Shipment Tracking plugin (Recommended)
The WooCommerce Shipment Tracking plugin provides the best customer experience:- Integrates with existing emails - Adds tracking links to your current WooCommerce email templates
- Order tracking page - Customers can track orders directly on your site
- Order view page - Tracking information displays in customer account
- No duplicate emails - Uses your existing email system instead of sending separate tracking emails
This is our recommended approach because it provides a seamless experience without spamming customers with multiple emails.
Option 2: Smart Send automatic emails
Enable automatic tracking emails from your Smart Send account:- Log in to Smart Send at app.smartsend.io
- Go to Settings > Notifications
- Enable tracking emails for customers
- Customize email templates as needed
This option sends separate emails from Smart Send, which might result in customers receiving multiple emails about their order.
Option 3: Carrier notifications
Most carriers automatically send tracking notifications:- Email/SMS notifications sent by the carrier
- Timing varies - Some send immediately after booking, others when the carrier receives the package
- Cannot be disabled in most cases
- Carrier-specific - Each carrier has different notification policies
Setting up WooCommerce Shipment Tracking
To use the recommended tracking solution:- Install the plugin from the WooCommerce marketplace
- Activate the plugin in your WordPress admin
- Configure settings to match your preferences
- Test with a sample order to ensure everything works
Benefits of WooCommerce Shipment Tracking
- Unified email system - All notifications come from your store
- Brand consistency - Emails match your store’s branding
- Better customer experience - Single source for all order communications
- Reduced email fatigue - Customers don’t receive multiple tracking emails
Tracking information display
Tracking information appears in several places:Customer account
- Order history - Past orders with tracking links
- Order details - Current order status and tracking information
- Email notifications - Tracking links in order update emails
Admin interface
- Order details - Tracking numbers and links in order management
- Order list - Quick access to tracking information
- Bulk actions - Manage tracking for multiple orders
Tracking status updates
The system automatically updates tracking status when:- Package is picked up by the carrier
- Package is in transit with location updates
- Package is out for delivery
- Package is delivered or available for pickup
- Delivery exceptions occur (failed delivery, etc.)
Customizing tracking notifications
Email templates
- Customize email content - Add your branding and messaging
- Include tracking links - Ensure tracking information is prominently displayed
- Set notification timing - Control when customers receive updates
Tracking page
- Customize tracking page - Match your store’s design
- Add additional information - Include delivery instructions or contact details
- Mobile optimization - Ensure tracking works well on mobile devices
Troubleshooting tracking
Customers not receiving tracking information
Common issues:- Email settings - Check that customer email addresses are valid
- Notification settings - Verify tracking notifications are enabled
- Spam filters - Tracking emails might be filtered by email providers
- Plugin conflicts - Other plugins might interfere with email delivery
Tracking links not working
Solutions:- Check carrier connection - Verify the carrier is properly connected
- Test tracking numbers - Ensure tracking numbers are valid
- Update plugin - Make sure you’re using the latest version
- Contact support - Reach out if issues persist
Tracking status not updating
Possible causes:- Carrier delays - Some carriers update tracking information slowly
- System synchronization - Tracking updates might take time to sync
- Carrier issues - The carrier might be experiencing technical problems
Best practices
Customer communication
- Set expectations - Let customers know when they’ll receive tracking information
- Provide multiple ways to track - Email, website, and direct carrier links
- Include delivery estimates - Help customers plan for package arrival
- Offer support - Provide contact information for tracking questions
Technical setup
- Test thoroughly - Verify tracking works with different carriers and order types
- Monitor performance - Check that tracking updates are working correctly
- Keep plugins updated - Ensure compatibility with the latest WooCommerce version
- Backup before changes - Always backup before making configuration changes
Next steps
After setting up tracking:- Configure supported plugins for enhanced functionality
- Test the complete order flow from checkout to delivery
- Monitor customer feedback on tracking experience