UPS Tracking Number Format
This FAQ provides clear, detailed information about UPS tracking numbers, including their formats, service codes, and verification methods. Whether you're tracking a package or troubleshooting an issue, this guide offers practical answers to help you navigate the process with ease.
Table of Contents
- What is a UPS Tracking Number?
- Standard "1Z" Format
- Other UPS Tracking Number Formats
- Other Formats Recognized in 2025
- API & Updates for 2025
- Tracking & Retention Policy
- Real-Time Tracking Today
- Service Codes
- How to Verify a Tracking Number
- Checksum Calculation
- Example Tracking Numbers
- Tips for Effective Tracking
- International Tracking
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Additional Resources
What is a UPS Tracking Number?
A UPS tracking number is a unique code assigned to each package, allowing you to monitor its journey from shipment to delivery. The most common format is an 18-character alphanumeric code starting with "1Z", though other formats are used for specific services or regions.
Standard "1Z" Format
The 18-character "1Z" tracking number is structured as follows:
1Z xxx xxx yy zzzz zzz c
- 1Z: Identifies the number as a UPS tracking code.
- xxx xxx: A 6-character alphanumeric shipper account number (e.g., 662F41).
- yy: A 2-digit service level code (see Service Codes).
- zzzz zzz: An 8-digit package identifier (e.g., 68787878).
- c: A checksum digit to ensure the number’s validity.
Example: 1Z662F416878787827
Other UPS Tracking Number Formats
UPS also uses these tracking number formats:
- 9-digit numeric: e.g.,
234918751
, often for legacy or niche services. - 10-digit alphanumeric: Starting with "H" or "V".
- 12-digit alphanumeric: Variations of the "1Z" format.
- 18-digit numeric: Typically used for freight or international shipments.
Other Formats Recognized in 2025
UPS systems now recognize a broader set of formats:
- 9-digit numeric: e.g.,
123456789
- 10-character alphanumeric: e.g.,
T1234567890
- 12-digit numeric: e.g.,
999999999999
- "1Z" + 16 characters: Total of 18 alphanumeric characters
- 7–20 characters: LTL/TL, air/sea waybills, delivery orders, PRO numbers
- Mail Innovations: 18–34 characters, including USPS confirmation IDs
To verify a "1Z" tracking number’s checksum, use tools like Mike’s checksum calculator.
API & Updates for 2025
- The UPS Track API accepts tracking numbers from 7 to 34 characters including 1Z, InfoNotice, Mail Innovations, FGV, and UPS Freight.
- The UPS Track Alert API provides near real-time event notifications for
1Z
and1R
(Roadie) numbers. Supports up to 100 subscriptions for 14 days.
Tracking & Retention Policy
- Tracking data is stored for up to 120 days after delivery.
- Alert subscriptions remain active for 14 days, unless renewed.
Real-Time Tracking Today
Tracking responses include:
- Current status
- Package activity history
- Estimated delivery
- Optional proof-of-delivery (e.g., signature or photo)
Note: Updates may be delayed during weekends or in remote areas (allow up to 24 hours).
Service Codes
The 2-digit service code in a "1Z" tracking number indicates the delivery service used, such as overnight or ground shipping. Below is a non-exhaustive list of common codes:
Code | Service |
---|---|
01 | UPS United States Next Day Air ("Red") |
02 | UPS United States Second Day Air ("Blue") |
03 | UPS United States Ground |
12 | UPS United States Third Day Select |
13 | UPS United States Next Day Air Saver ("Red Saver") |
15 | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. |
22 | UPS United States Ground - Returns Plus - Three Pickup Attempts |
32 | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. - COD |
33 | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. - Saturday Delivery, COD |
41 | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. - Saturday Delivery |
42 | UPS United States Ground - Signature Required |
44 | UPS United States Next Day Air - Saturday Delivery |
66 | UPS United States Worldwide Express |
72 | UPS United States Ground - Collect on Delivery |
78 | UPS United States Ground - Returns Plus - One Pickup Attempt |
90 | UPS United States Ground - Returns - UPS Prints and Mails Label |
A0 | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. - Adult Signature Required |
A1 | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. - Saturday Delivery, Adult Signature Required |
A2 | UPS United States Next Day Air - Adult Signature Required |
A8 | UPS United States Ground - Adult Signature Required |
A9 | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. - Adult Signature Required, COD |
AA | UPS United States Next Day Air Early A.M. - Saturday Delivery, Adult Signature Required, COD |
How to Verify a Tracking Number
- Check the Format: Should be 9, 10, 12, or 18 characters.
- Identify the Prefix: e.g., "1Z", "H", "V", etc.
- Match the Service Code: For "1Z" numbers, refer to the service codes.
- Validate the Checksum: Use a calculator or the steps in the next section.
- Test It: Enter it on www.ups.com/track or in the UPS Mobile App.
How to Calculate the UPS Checksum Digit (1Z)
To calculate the checksum for a "1Z" number:
- Remove the "1Z" prefix.
- Convert letters using: A=2, B=3, ..., Z=0; digits stay the same.
- Multiply each position by 2 (odd) or 3 (even).
- Add the results, modulo 10.
- Subtract from 10 to get the checksum digit.
Online tools make this easier and faster.
Example Tracking Numbers
Below are examples of valid UPS tracking numbers:
- 9-digit: 234918751
- 18-character "1Z" format:
1Z662F416878787827
1Z001985YW96579840
1Z001985YW99744790
1Z001985YW90838348
1Z001985YW92164287
1ZE8889W0442766202
UPS Tracking Tips to Avoid Errors
- Enter tracking numbers carefully — they are case-sensitive.
- Each package in a multi-package shipment has its own number.
- Services like Signature Required may delay updates until delivered.
- Use the UPS Mobile App for alerts and notifications.
- Sign up for UPS My Choice for tracking updates via email or SMS.
International Tracking
International shipments may:
- Use standard "1Z" or numeric formats
- Experience customs delays or longer scan intervals
- Be tracked via www.ups.com/track/international
For support, contact UPS Global or use the international help portal.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Invalid Tracking Number
- Double-check every character
- Ensure it’s a UPS number
- Allow 24 hours for new numbers to activate
No Tracking Updates
- The package might not be scanned yet
- Contact the shipper for confirmation
Wrong or Missing Info
- Recheck the number
- Call UPS support: 1-800-PICK-UPS
Lost Tracking Number
- Ask the sender or retailer
- Use the “Track by Reference” tool on UPS’s site
UPS Tracking FAQs (Validation, Errors & More)
Q: Can I track without a tracking number?
A: Yes, use the "Track by Reference" feature with an order or invoice number.
Q: What does “Adult Signature Required” mean?
A: Someone aged 21+ must sign for the delivery.
Q: Why hasn't my number updated?
A: It may not be scanned yet, or there may be a delay. Confirm with the shipper.
Q: Can I redirect a package after shipping?
A: Yes, with UPS My Choice or by contacting UPS — note that restrictions may apply.
Additional Resources
- UPS Website
- UPS Mobile App
- UPS My Choice
- Customer Service: 1-800-PICK-UPS
- UPS on X
For further assistance, contact UPS directly or visit their help center.