How to Track Your International Shipment Like A Pro

 Due to the fast-moving of the global market, businesses engaged in international trade cannot afford the uncertainty of their shipment. Whether you're importing goods from China or moving a large quantity of cargo internationally, using tools to track international shipments is very important to ensure transparency and smooth delivery of products. 

 
If you've questioned how to effectively track your international shipments; this comprehensive guide will help you to understand how these tools work and provide you with some of the strategies that logistics professionals use to track international shipments efficiently. 

Why International Shipment Tracking Matters 

When shipping freight internationally, you have many players involved in the process. You have your vendor/supplier, freight forwarder, customs broker/consolidators, carrier/line and final delivery provider. If you do not have a way to track your international shipments, you may end up having a delay in the importation of your goods to the India, overnight storage fees, or customs clearance problems with your product, which will negatively affect your business. 

Professional international cargo tracking helps you: 

  • Monitor cargo movement in real time 
  • Plan warehouse operations 
  • Avoid port congestion issues 
  • Stay updated on customs clearance 
  • Improve customer satisfaction 

Working with an experienced international shipping company ensures better visibility and smoother coordination across borders. 

 

Step 1: Gather the Required Tracking Details 

Before you begin tracking, you need specific reference numbers. These include: 

  1. Bill of Lading (BL) Number

For international sea freight, the BL number is used to track container movement (throughout the shipping process) for international freight movement via the sea. 

  1. Airway Bill (AWB) Number

For air shipments, you can use airway bill tracking to monitor cargo transit via airline portals. 

  1. Container Number

For container tracking online, you will need the container number provided by the shipping line and/or freight forwarder. Having these details ready makes it easier to track import shipment status accurately. 

 

Step 2: How to Track Sea Freight Shipment 

If your goods are shipped via international sea freight, here’s how you can track sea freight shipment: 

  1. Visit the shipping line’s official website. 
  1. Enter your BL number or container number. 
  1. Check the Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA). 
  1. Monitor port updates and transshipment details. 

Sea freight tracking helps you plan inventory and prepare documents in advance for customs clearance tracking. 

For businesses shipping bulk international cargo, sea freight remains the most cost-effective solution. 

 

Step 3: How to Track Air Freight Shipment 

Air cargo moves faster but requires close monitoring. To track air freight shipment: 

  1. Use the airline’s tracking portal. 
  1. Enter the AWB number. 
  1. Check flight status and arrival schedules. 

Air shipments are often used by international courier services, especially for urgent or high-value goods. 

If you are working with the best international courier, they typically provide automated notifications and real-time updates. 
 

Step 4: Use a Freight Forwarding Tracking System 

Professional importers rely on a freight forwarding tracking system that consolidates update from shipping lines, airlines, and customs authorities. 

Benefits include: 

  • Real-time global shipment tracking 
  • Single dashboard visibility 
  • Proactive delay alerts 
  • Better coordination with suppliers 

Reputed international freight services providers integrate tracking technology to ensure complete transparency from origin to destination. 

 

Step 5: Monitor Customs Clearance Tracking 

One of the most critical stages in import logistics is customs clearance. Many delays happen due to incomplete documentation or regulatory checks. 

With proper customs clearance tracking, you can: 

  • Verify document submission status 
  • Check duty payment confirmation 
  • Monitor inspection updates 
  • Avoid unnecessary detention charges 

Working with an experienced partner in international cargo services ensures smooth customs processing and faster cargo release. 

 

Step 6: Door to Door Shipment Tracking 

If you opt for complete logistics support, door to door shipment tracking provides end-to-end visibility. 

This includes: 

  • Pickup from supplier warehouse 
  • Export clearance 
  • International transit 
  • Import clearance 
  • Final delivery 

Many international courier services in India now offer integrated tracking systems for seamless movement across the supply chain. 

For small parcels, international courier services are ideal. For bulk shipments, professional international freight shipping solutions are more suitable. 

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Tracking 

Even experienced importers make tracking errors. Avoid these common mistakes: 

  • Entering incorrect BL or AWB numbers 
  • Ignoring ETA updates 
  • Not monitoring port congestion alerts 
  • Failing to coordinate with the freight forwarder 
  • Overlooking documentation during international trade 

Being proactive ensures you stay ahead of potential disruptions. 

 

Pro Tips to Track Like a Logistics Expert 

✔ Always request tracking access from your freight partner 
✔ Keep digital copies of BL and AWB documents 
✔ Monitor both shipping line and freight forwarder portals 
✔ Plan inventory based on updated ETA 
✔ Work with a reliable international shipping company 

If you regularly deal with international cargo, building a relationship with a professional logistics partner improves operational efficiency. 

 

Choosing the Right Logistics Partner 

Tracking becomes easier when you work with a trusted provider offering: 

  • Advanced global shipment tracking tools 
  • Strong network in international freight services 
  • Reliable international cargo services 
  • Transparent communication 
  • Expertise in import compliance 

Whether you require bulk international sea freight or express international courier services, selecting the right partner ensures smoother operations. 

 

Final Thoughts 

Mastering international shipment tracking is not just about checking shipment status — it’s about controlling your supply chain. Knowing how to track international shipment professionally helps you reduce delays, avoid penalties, and improve overall business efficiency. 

From container tracking online to airway bill tracking, modern logistics tools make it easier than ever to monitor cargo movement across borders. 

If you are involved in international trade, investing in reliable international freight shipping and tracking systems will give you a competitive advantage in today’s global market. 

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