Beyond the Tracking Number: How to Track International Shipments Like a Pro

Your goods have left the factory, and now they've entered the vast, complex world of international logistics. For the next few weeks, your valuable inventory is in a black box, and the anxiety of not knowing its exact status can be stressful. While you might be used to the simple tracking of a domestic courier, tracking an international sea or air freight shipment is a different ball game.

"Pro-level" tracking isn't just about getting a location update; it's about understanding the key documents and milestones of the journey. At Befach.com, we believe in total transparency. This guide will show you how to track your shipments like a professional.

The Key to Tracking: It's Not Your PO Number

The first thing to understand is that you don't track an international shipment with your Purchase Order (PO) or supplier's invoice number. You need the official document issued by the shipping carrier.

• For Sea Freight: You need the Bill of Lading (B/L) number.
• For Air Freight: You need the Air Waybill (AWB) number.

This number is your golden ticket to tracking. You will get it from your freight forwarder or logistics provider once the cargo has been picked up.

The Pro's 4-Step Tracking Method

1. Get the B/L or AWB Number: This is your unique tracking ID for the shipment.
2. Identify the Carrier: The number is useless if you don't know who is carrying the goods. Is it Maersk, MSC, Hapag-Lloyd (for sea) or Emirates, Qatar, Cathay Pacific (for air)? Your logistics partner will provide this.
3. Go to the Carrier's Official Website: The most accurate information will always be on the official tracking portal of the shipping line or airline. Avoid third-party tracking sites, which can have delayed or inaccurate information.
4. Use the Container Number (for Sea Freight): For even more specific tracking, you can use the unique container number (e.g., MSCU1234567) on the carrier's website. This tracks the physical box itself.

Understanding the Milestones: What Are You Actually Tracking?

A pro doesn't just see "In Transit." They look for key milestones:

• Cargo Received: The carrier has accepted the goods from the factory.
• Loaded on Vessel/Aircraft: Your goods are officially on their way.
• Departure from Origin Port: The ship or plane has left.
• Arrival at Destination Port: The shipment has reached India.
• Discharged from Vessel: Your container has been unloaded onto the port.
• Customs Clearance Status: This is the final, critical step. A professional customs clearance agent will monitor this closely with the CBIC to ensure a swift release.

The Befach Advantage: Managed Tracking, Not Just a Number

While you can do this all yourself, it's a reactive and time-consuming process. The true "pro" move is to have a partner who manages this for you.

The Befach logistics service is more than just a booking agent. We provide proactive, managed tracking. We don't just give you a number and a website; we monitor your shipment's milestones, anticipate potential delays, and provide you with clear, consolidated updates. This seamless process starts with our sourcing team ensuring your supplier is reliable and ends with our clearance team getting your goods released.

Stop Chasing Numbers. Start Gaining Visibility.

True supply chain control comes from professional management, not constant manual tracking.

Ready to experience a new level of transparency and peace of mind with your shipments? Contact the Befach team today.