TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Understanding Tracking Statuses in UFH
• Most Common 'Exception' Shipment Delays 

Understanding Tracking Statuses in UFH

Shipping can sometimes feel overwhelming, but clear and accurate tracking updates can alleviate much of the stress and provide peace of mind. This article offers a straightforward breakdown of common freight tracking statuses to help you stay informed throughout your shipment’s journey.  

From the moment a shipment is booked, through its pickup, transit, and eventual delivery, understanding each tracking status ensures you can anticipate the next steps and address any potential issues swiftly. Key phases, such as "Shipment Booked," "Picked Up," "In Transit," "Arrived," and "Delivered," outline the shipment’s progress, while statuses like "Departed" reflect its ongoing movement through various checkpoints. For cases involving delays or issues, the "Exception" status highlights potential problems like weather disruptions, customs hold, or missing documentation, accompanied by codes to help pinpoint the cause.  

Let's explore the common reasons for shipment delays, ranging from port congestion to customs inspections or missing paperwork. 

Shipment Booked  

This status confirms your shipment has been scheduled and reserved with the carrier. All necessary shipping details have been processed, and the next steps are underway.  

Picked Up  

The carrier has collected the shipment from a designated location, marking the start of its physical movement through the shipping journey.  

In Transit  

Your shipment is currently on its way to the next destination. This means it is actively transported, either via trucks, ships, or airplanes, depending on the arrangement.  

Arrived/Arrival 

The shipment has reached an interim stop, its final destination or terminal. This status typically indicates it is in a storage facility or prepared for the next stage of delivery.  

Departed 

After arriving at a location, the shipment has been sent out again to continue its transit. You’ll often see this status repeated as the freight passes through various checkpoints.

Delivered  

The shipment has reached the recipient. Delivery confirmation is generally recorded to close the shipping process.  

Exception

This status indicates an unexpected issue, such as a delay, loss, or damage to the shipment. If this happens, it’s best to connect with one of our UFH live agents via the help icon for more information and support. An internal delay code is normally associated with the exception status, to help identify the specific issue with your freight.  

Most Common 'Exception' Shipment Delays 

We understand that shipment delays are frustrating, and there are multiple reasons that can affect moving cargo around the globe. When freight is delayed due to unforeseen circumstances, you will see 'Exception' as a tracking status.  Here are a list of common reasons why your shipment is delayed. 

• Port congestion
• Airline cancellations
• Weather delays
• Global and/or national natural disasters
• Missing/inaccurate/need additional shipping documentation
• Customs holds and inspection
• Credit hold, no credit on file, cash/check not available at pick up
• Missing hazardous material information
• Shipment stuck at port requiring brokerage services

Sometimes when shipment delays occur due to documentation issues or no credit on file, your broker or UPS service center handling the freight will attempt to contact you via email or phone. Therefore, be sure to monitor these methods of communication when you have cargo being transported.

Need more information about your freight's shipment status?

• Check out our Service Alert page, or
• Log into the UPS Forwarding Hub, and chat with one of our live agents