Order Tracking
Each artist in your order ships independently, providing their own tracking. This guide explains how to track multiple shipments and what each status means.
How Tracking Works
Per-Artist Tracking
Key Concept: One tracking number per artist
Example:
Order #G-123456 (3 items from 2 artists)
Package 1: Sarah Chen Studio
Carrier: USPS Priority Mail
Tracking: 9400111111111111111111
Status: In Transit
Package 2: Bob's Pottery
Carrier: UPS Ground
Tracking: 1Z999AA10123456784
Status: Label Created
Each package tracks independently from order placement to delivery.
Receiving Tracking Information
Shipment Notification Email
When each artist ships, you receive an email:
Email Includes:
- Artist name
- Items shipped
- Carrier name
- Tracking number (clickable link)
- Estimated delivery date
Example:
Subject: Your order from Sarah Chen Studio has shipped
Your painting and ceramic vase have been shipped via
USPS Priority Mail.
Tracking: 9400111111111111111111
Estimated Delivery: December 15, 2024
Track Your Package: [Track Now]
Order Status Page
View all tracking in one place:
Access: Account → Orders → Select order
Page Shows:
- All packages in order
- Current status per package
- Tracking numbers (clickable)
- Delivery estimates
- Shipping carrier logos
Tracking Statuses
USPS Statuses
| Status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Label Created | Shipping label printed | Artist preparing package |
| Accepted | USPS has package | In transit to you |
| In Transit | Moving through network | No action needed |
| Out for Delivery | On delivery vehicle | Arrives today |
| Delivered | Package delivered | Check your door/mailbox |
| Available for Pickup | At post office | Bring ID to collect |
UPS Statuses
| Status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Order Processed | Label created | Wait for pickup |
| Picked Up | UPS has package | In transit |
| In Transit | Moving to you | No action needed |
| Out for Delivery | Arriving today | Be available |
| Delivered | Package left | Check door/porch |
| Delivery Exception | Issue occurred | Check details |
FedEx Statuses
| Status | Meaning | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Shipment Information Sent | Label created | Awaiting pickup |
| Picked Up | FedEx has it | In transit |
| In Transit | On the way | No action |
| On FedEx Vehicle | Out for delivery | Arrives today |
| Delivered | Package left | Check location |
Tracking Methods
Click Email Link
Fastest method:
- Open shipment email
- Click tracking number or "Track Now"
- Opens carrier website
- View real-time updates
Order Page Tracking
All tracking in one place:
- Log in to account
- Go to Orders
- Select your order
- Click any tracking number
- Opens carrier site in new tab
Carrier Websites
Track directly on carrier sites:
USPS: tools.usps.com/go/TrackConfirmAction UPS: ups.com/track FedEx: fedex.com/fedextrack
Enter tracking number and view updates.
Carrier Apps
Download carrier apps:
USPS Mobile (iOS/Android):
- Track packages
- Informed Delivery preview
- Manage delivery preferences
UPS Mobile (iOS/Android):
- Track shipments
- UPS My Choice settings
- Reroute packages
FedEx Mobile (iOS/Android):
- Track packages
- Delivery manager
- Hold at location
Delivery Estimates
Understanding Estimates
Estimates Are Not Guarantees:
- Based on typical transit times
- Weather can cause delays
- Carrier delays possible
- Holidays slow delivery
Estimate Factors:
- Shipping method selected
- Distance from artist
- Current carrier volume
- Time of year
Tracking Updates
Update Frequency:
- USPS: Every scan (variable)
- UPS: Daily + major milestones
- FedEx: Real-time updates
No Updates for Days?:
- Common during transit
- Packages move between facilities
- Updates resume at major hubs
- Contact carrier after 7+ days
Multiple Package Coordination
Different Delivery Dates
Normal and Expected:
Dec 15: Package 1 arrives (Sarah - California)
Dec 18: Package 2 arrives (Bob - Oregon)
Dec 20: Package 3 arrives (Jane - New York)
Why Different Dates:
- Artists ship from different locations
- Different carriers and methods
- Different processing times
- Weather/delays vary by region
Tracking All Packages
Stay Organized:
- Bookmark order page
- Check daily for updates
- Set carrier app notifications
- Save tracking emails
Order Not Complete Until: All artists have shipped and all packages delivered.
Delivery Locations
Standard Delivery
Where Packages Go:
- Front door/porch
- Mailbox (small items)
- Building lobby/mailroom
- Concierge/office (if specified)
Signature Required?:
- Rarely for art
- High-value items may require signature
- Tracking will note if required
Delivery Preferences
Set With Carriers:
USPS Informed Delivery:
- Preview packages coming
- Set delivery instructions
- Hold at post office
UPS My Choice:
- Delivery alerts
- Reschedule delivery
- Hold at UPS Access Point
FedEx Delivery Manager:
- Customize delivery
- Hold at FedEx location
- Vacation hold
Issues and Problems
Package Delays
Common Delay Reasons:
- Weather events
- High carrier volume (holidays)
- Incorrect address
- Customs (international)
- Missed scans
What to Do:
- Check tracking for updates
- Wait 2-3 days past estimate
- Contact carrier after 7+ days
- Contact artist if concerns persist
Package Not Moving
"Label Created" for Days:
- Artist hasn't dropped off yet
- Awaiting carrier pickup
- Contact artist after 3-5 days
"In Transit" with No Updates:
- Package between facilities
- Missing scans (common)
- Moving through network
- Updates resume at next hub
Delivery Exceptions
What Exceptions Mean:
- Address issue
- Weather delay
- Failed delivery attempt
- Package damaged
Action:
- Read exception details
- Follow carrier instructions
- Contact artist if unclear
- Update delivery preferences if needed
Lost Packages
When to Consider Lost:
- USPS: 7+ days past estimate, no updates
- UPS/FedEx: 5+ days past estimate, no movement
Steps:
- Contact carrier first
- Open search request/claim
- Contact artist
- Artist files insurance claim
- Refund or replacement provided
Damaged Packages
Upon Delivery:
- Photo/video package condition
- Open carefully
- Photo any damage
- Contact artist immediately
- Keep all packaging
Artist Will:
- Request damage photos
- File carrier claim
- Offer refund or replacement
- Provide return label if needed
International Tracking
Customs Processing
International Orders:
- Package stops at customs
- Status: "In Customs" or "Clearance in Progress"
- Can take 3-15+ days
- No control over timing
Customs Charges:
- May owe duties/taxes upon delivery
- Carrier notifies you of amount
- Pay before receiving package
- Not included in order total
International Carriers
Common for International:
- USPS → Local postal service
- UPS/FedEx international
- DHL Express
Tracking Transfers:
- Use original tracking number
- May need to track on local carrier site
- Updates continue through delivery
Next Steps
Tracking issues? Contact the artist via your order page or gallery support at support@artbase.studio.