FedEx Master Tracking Number (what it is, how it works + more)
If you regularly deliver packages via FedEx, you’re probably used to checking the status of your packages using the tracking number.
However, you may not see the Master Tracking number – but what is it? Well, we’re going to take a deeper look at Master Tracking numbering in this article, so be sure to keep reading!
What is the FedEx Master Tracking Number in 2022?
Once the first box is expedited from FedEx, multiple shipments are assigned a Master Tracking number. Subsequent packages in the shipment will be assigned the same tracking number, but their location and delivery status can be viewed individually. Packages with a shared Master Tracking number must have the same delivery address in 2022.
Understanding Master Tracking numbers can be tricky, especially if you’ve never encountered them before. So keep reading this article for more useful facts!
What is a FedEx Tracking Number?
Before discussing the master tracking number, it is helpful to understand what a tracking number is and how to use it.
Every time a package enters the FedEx network, it is assigned a unique tracking number and barcode.
Every time a package arrives or leaves a FedEx facility, the barcode is scanned and the item’s location is updated.
Customers can view this updated location information by entering their tracking number online.
Typically, FedEx tracking numbers consist of 12 digits in the following format (for example, 9999 9999 9999). In some cases, FedEx uses a 15-digit tracking number.
What is a FedEx Master Tracking Number?
Now that you have a better understanding of what a tracking number is, you can understand what a master tracking number is and how to use it.
Whenever an order is sent through FedEx, whether it is one box or 5 boxes, a Master Tracking number is assigned to the entire shipment.
If the shipment is a box, the box has a master tracking number. If the order contains multiple boxes, a Master Tracking number is assigned to the entire shipment.
This master tracking number will show all packages associated with the shipment.
How does the FedEx Master Tracking Number work?
When you place an order through an online retailer, the company will determine how many boxes will be needed for shipment.
This can be based on the availability of a particular product (i.e. a company can choose to split an order into two shipments so that some items get to customers earlier than others).
Split shipments can also occur if the shipment is too large to fit in one box.
For whatever reason, the first package expedited via FedEx will receive a Master Tracking number.
Subsequent boxes will have the same tracking number, but customers will be able to see the different locations of the boxes in the shipment.
Packages with a shared Master Tracking number must all meet the following criteria:
- Use the same service (eg, home delivery, priority, etc.)
- have the same destination and billing address
- Have the same shipping instructions (e.g. signature option, Saturday delivery, or cash on delivery)
- Meets all dimensions, weights and acceptance guidelines for the selected service, although individual packages may have different weights, dimensions and declared values
What is the significance of the master tracking number?
From a customer’s perspective, Master Tracking numbers simplify FedEx’s tracking and delivery process.
With the Master Tracking numbering system, customers can keep an eye on all the parts in their cargo without being drowning in a sea of numbers.
Additionally, businesses may receive better multi-piece shipping rates.
Additionally, Master Tracking Numbers are helpful for businesses as they provide more visibility into FedEx shipment tracking.
Can Master Tracking Numbers have different tracking updates?
While you will only receive one master tracking number when expecting multiple shipments, you will be able to view the status and location of individual packages in your order.
So one package might show it’s in transit, while another package might show as Departed FedEx Location.
This is completely normal and just means that your package goes through the FedEx system at a different cadence.
Will packages with the same master tracking number arrive at different times?
Packages with the same Master Tracking number may or may not arrive at the same time.
Some FedEx customers reported receiving all packages on the same day, while others received all packages within a few days.
In rare cases, it may take up to a week for all packages in a multi-shipment to arrive.
Packages are separated for various reasons. In some cases, items may be dispatched at different times.
In other cases, packages may come apart when loaded into delivery trucks.
While it can be annoying to collect your orders piece by piece, trust that everything will arrive in time.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on FedEx Tracking Not Updating, FedEx Tracking Number Expired, and FedEx Updating Tracking.
in conclusion
If you ever see the Master Tracking number when checking the location of your FedEx package, it means your order was split into multiple packages and they were sent separately.
While all of these boxes share the same tracking number, you can still see their respective tracking updates and locations.
