Have you ever heard of a message stating, “On the Way” through UPS and wondered what that term means? Can you imagine having the power to determine the exact arrival date of your most awaited packages or parcels right on your doorstep?

Tracking and knowing the whereabouts of your shipments at any given moment provides you with peace of mind. Shipment tracking is not just a unique feature; it is also considered a window from the seller’s hand to yours.

UPS’s “On the Way” means your package is en route and on its way closer to you. UPS, known as a top shipping company, proudly introduced this feature. Also, they are the best at sending packages worldwide and have an excellent tracking system.

What Does “On the Way” Mean In UPS Tracking?

One of the crucial stages in a UPS tracking update is the status “On the Way.” This means that your much-awaited package has left the sender’s location or distribution hub and is currently in the active transportation phase.

Shipping “On the Way” Meaning 

Shipping “On the Way” means that the package is physically moving and making its last trip to the address of the person who ordered it. This is a big step from handling, sorting, and getting ready for the actual transportation process. 

During this phase, packages may pass through distribution hubs, sorting facilities, and transportation modes, like trucks and planes, depending on the recipient’s distance and destination.

Why Does Arrival Scan Matter?

When a package arrives at the distribution center or sorting facility, UPS scans the items before sending them to their final destinations.

This step, which UPS calls the “Arrival Scan,” is essential to ensuring the packages get from the sender to the receiver smoothly and correctly. 

Also, an arrival scan reduces uncertainty and the chance of package delays because it lets the shipping company and the recipient know exactly where a package is and when it is due to arrive.

Understanding UPS Tracking Status Updates

UPS tracking status updates play a vital role in the world of package delivery. Understanding these updates provides you with up-to-date status and allows you to plan what to do on a specific parcel.

One of the important statuses in UPS tracking is “On the Way,” which means your package is in transit, whether moving from one UPS facility to another or traveling between transportation hubs. 

Here are the commonly used UPS Tracking Status Updates:

  1. Order Received: UPS has already received your shipment request and is preparing to pick up your package.
  2. In Transit: This means that your package is on its way to its destination. It passes through different UPS facilities and transportation hubs.
  3. Out For Delivery: Your package has been handed over to a UPS driver and should arrive at your doorstep that day.
  4. Delivery Attempted: A UPS driver tried to bring your package but couldn’t because you weren’t at the address you gave them. 
  5. Delivered: The package has been delivered successfully to a specific address.
  6. Exception: Certain packages are experiencing delays due to bad weather conditions or address problems.
  7. Return To Sender: Seeing this status means that your package is on its way back to the sender because of an incorrect address or your refusal to accept the delivery.
  8. Hold For Pickup: Instead of having the package delivered to your doorstep, holding for pick up means picking up the parcel at the nearest UPS location. 

Meanwhile, here are the standard tracking terms and their meanings:

  1. Package: An item, such as a box or envelope, being sent or received. 
  2. Shipment: Collection of different packages sent together under one tracking number. 
  3. Tracking Number: This is a unique code that helps you track the status of your parcel. 
  4. Sender: The person or company who sent the package. 
  5. Recipient: The person or location that receives the package.
  6. Address: The specific area where the package is intended to be sent or delivered. 

Decoding UPS Shipping Terminology

Different UPS shipping terminologies require your attention for seamless communication and efficient logistics. Knowing these terms will help you avoid misunderstandings, delays, and ensure the shipping process is done right.

Given below are the commonly used UPS shipping terminologies:

  1. Origin Address: The shipment’s starting location or point of origin.
  2. Destination Address: Described as the recipient’s intended delivery area. 
  3. Tracking Number: Used as a unique code when monitoring a shipment’s status. 
  4. Bill Of Landing (BOL): A legal document discussing the shipment terms and conditions. 
  5. Shipping Label: A tag detailing the important shipping details is attached to the package. 
  6. Package Weight: The mass or weight of a shipment affects cost and handling. 
  7. Declared Value: Considered the shipped item’s worth for insurance purposes.
  8. Delivery Confirmation: Proof of successful package delivery to a target recipient.
  9. Accessorial Charges: Extra fees corresponding to the availability of a particular service.
  10. Transit Time: Estimated arrival time of the package at its final destination. 

Tracking Your Package Under UPS

You can have a real-time update on your package with UPS by following these simple steps:

Step 1: Obtain Your Tracking Number

Know the tracking number of your package, which is usually provided to you by the sender or written on your shipping receipts. 

Step 2: Visit The UPS Website

Go to the official website of UPS (www.ups.com).

Step 3: Go To Tracking Section

Look for the tracking section on the UPS website. This is usually seen on the main page. 

Step 4: Enter The Tracking Number

Once you found the tracking section, enter your tracking number into the provided field. 

Step 5: Track Package

Click the track button. The UPS system will retrieve all the tracking information intended for your package and will automatically display its current status. 

Step 6: Tracking Details

You will be able to see all the information about your current shipment in detail. This includes the location of your package and its journey through different UPS facilities. 

Final Thoughts

Shipment tracking offers undeniable benefits for both the sender and receiver. It gives you easy access to various pieces of information, like real-time updates on your tracking and an idea of your package’s arrival. 

As the world of ecommerce continues to evolve, it is recommended to take advantage of the different tracking services offered by UPS. That way, you can keep track of your shipment at all times, giving you confidence during the delivery process. 

FAQs

What Does UPS’s “On the Way” And “Preparing For Delivery” Mean?

This status indicates that UPS is preparing your package for delivery and is scheduled to be sent out soon. 

Can You Track Exactly Where Your Package Is?

Yes, you can track the exact location of your package by utilizing the tracking number provided. The said number is unique to your shipment and allows you to monitor its status. 

Can You Call UPS To See Where Your Package Is?

Yes, you can call UPS customer service to inquire about the exact location and status of your current shipment. UPS allows you to talk with a customer representative to get information about your package. 

What Does It Mean When UPS Says “On the Way” But No Delivery Date?

If there is no delivery date stated, UPS has not yet confirmed the precise delivery date and the package is in transit. 

Does UPS Deliver In An Earlier Than Expected Timeframe?

Yes, UPS delivers ahead of the given time, but packages usually arrive within the exact timeframe provided. 

What Happens If UPS Loses Your Package?

UPS follows certain procedures in order to address and resolve lost packages. First, you can contact UPS to report your lost package. UPS will do more research right away, handle the claim process, and then offer possible payment and customer support.