How Can Customers Track Their Order on Shopify

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Order Status Page on Shopify
3. Adding Tracking Numbers to Orders
4. Benefits of Effective Order Tracking
5. Popular Order Tracking Apps for Shopify
6. Conclusion
7. FAQ

Introduction

Imagine eagerly waiting for a package to arrive, refreshing your email, and checking tracking numbers anxiously. We've all felt that anticipation, the desire to know exactly where our order is and when it will reach us. For Shopify storeowners, tracking orders is a crucial feature to streamline the customer experience, reduce inquiry volumes, and build trust. In this blog post, we will explore how customers can track their orders on Shopify, and why this feature is essential for enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

In this post, you will learn about the various methods customers can use to track their orders on Shopify, the importance of having a robust order tracking system, and how to optimize it for the best customer experience. Whether you're a Shopify merchant or a customer wanting to understand the process better, this comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know.

The Order Status Page on Shopify

What is the Order Status Page?

The order status page on Shopify is a dedicated page where customers can track the progress of their orders once they've made a purchase. This page provides real-time updates and is accessible through the order confirmation email or SMS sent to the customer. Depending on the contact information provided at checkout, customers receive notifications via email or SMS.

Accessing the Order Status Page

Customers can access the order status page through multiple avenues:

1. Email Confirmation: Upon purchasing, customers receive an email including a link to the order status page.
2. SMS Confirmation: If a phone number is entered at checkout, customers receive an SMS with the order status link.
3. Customer Account: For customers with a Shopify account, logging into their account will also provide access to their order status.

Real-Time Shipping Updates

For shipments sent via supported carriers, the order status updates in real-time, showing the current location of the package on a map. However, for unsupported carriers, only the tracking number is visible, and customers need to visit the carrier’s website for detailed tracking information.

Security and Privacy

Shopify ensures that customer information is secure even though the order confirmation might appear publicly accessible. Customers need to either log in using their account or verify their identity through email or phone to view detailed order information. This includes:

• Limiting access to essential order details like items purchased and total cost.
• Requiring login or verification for sensitive details like payment methods and shipping addresses.

Customizing the Order Status Page

Shopify allows merchants to customize the order status page to include special notes or messages, making the experience more personalized. Merchants can also integrate their brand’s unique elements into the page, enhancing the overall customer experience.

Adding Tracking Numbers to Orders

How to Add Tracking Numbers

Adding tracking numbers helps customers keep tabs on their shipments directly from the order status page. Here’s how you can add tracking numbers on Shopify:

1. Navigate to the Orders section in your Shopify admin.
2. Select the order you wish to update.
3. Click on Add tracking in the fulfillment section.
4. Enter the tracking number and choose the shipping carrier from the dropdown.
5. Save the update, and Shopify will automatically send a shipping confirmation email to the customer, including the tracking link.

Email Notifications

Shopify’s built-in features ensure that customers receive timely notifications about their shipment. Each status change triggers an automatic email, keeping customers informed and reducing the volume of order-related inquiries.

Benefits of Effective Order Tracking

Enhancing Customer Experience

A well-designed order tracking system boosts customer satisfaction by providing transparency and reducing anxiety about their shipment. Knowing the exact status of an order reassures customers and encourages repeat purchases.

Reducing Customer Service Inquiries

Order tracking pages significantly reduce the number of customer service inquiries regarding shipment status, allowing support teams to focus on more complex issues and improving overall efficiency.

Building Trust and Loyalty

Providing a seamless tracking experience builds trust and loyalty. Customers feel more confident in their decision to purchase when they can track their order conveniently, leading to higher retention rates.

Popular Order Tracking Apps for Shopify

Trackr

Trackr is a highly recommended app that offers real-time tracking for more than 900 carriers worldwide. It allows customers to track their orders directly on your Shopify store through a branded tracking page.

ShipStation

ShipStation integrates with major carriers like UPS, USPS, DHL, or FedEx, and sends automated tracking updates to customers. It also offers advanced features like batch label printing and detailed analytics.

ParcelPanel

ParcelPanel provides a branded post-purchase experience by integrating with over 1000 carriers. Its real-time tracking and customizable notification systems help enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Conclusion

Tracking orders is a fundamental feature for any Shopify store aiming to provide an excellent customer experience. By setting up an efficient order tracking system, merchants can enhance transparency, reduce customer anxiety, and build long-lasting trust. From understanding the order status page to utilizing advanced tracking apps, these tools are indispensable for modern e-commerce success.

FAQ

Q: How can customers check the status of their order without an account? A: Customers can use the order confirmation email or SMS that contains a link to the order status page. They might need to verify their identity via email or phone number.

Q: Can the order status page be customized? A: Yes, Shopify allows merchants to customize the order status page to include special notes, branding elements, and personalized messages.

Q: What happens if a shipment is handled by an unsupported carrier? A: The order status page will include a tracking number that links to the carrier's website for more detailed tracking information, although real-time updates will not be displayed.

Q: How does adding tracking numbers benefit both the customer and the merchant? A: It keeps customers informed about their shipment status, reducing anxiety and inquiries while allowing the support team to handle more complex issues efficiently.

By leveraging Shopify’s powerful order tracking features, both customers and merchants can enjoy a hassle-free and transparent shopping experience.