Trackers contain shipment tracking information and are updated continuously throughout the package lifecycle. Each tracker includes status updates, carrier messages, and scan location data. Tracker reports provide insight into package movement, delivery performance, and carrier reliability.
This article explains how trackers are created, how to generate a tracker report in the EasyPost Dashboard, and how to use tracker data to optimize operations.
How Trackers are created
Trackers are created in two ways:
- Automatically, when a shipment is purchased via EasyPost API or the EasyPost Dashboard.
- Manually, by creating a standalone tracker using a tracking code (and optionally a carrier) for shipments not purchased through EasyPost.
When a standalone tracker is created using only a tracking code, EasyPost attempts to detect the carrier. For best results, include both the carrier and tracking_code values.
A separate fee may apply for tracking shipments that were not created through EasyPost.
How to generate a Tracker Report in the Dashboard
- Navigate to the Trackers page in the EasyPost Dashboard.
- Use the Date Range and Status filters to define the desired results (maximum 32-day range).
- (Optional) Select the Environment filter to choose between Production or Test data.
- Click Request CSV in the upper right corner.
- In the modal, select the columns to include or exclude from the report.
- (Optional) Enable Send Email to receive the file by email.
- Click EXPORT to download the file. If email was selected, a copy will also be sent to the configured address.
Common use cases for Tracker Reports
Tracker reports support a variety of operational use cases, including:
- Identifying packages lost in transit, stuck in customs, or returned to sender
- Monitoring carrier transit performance
- Measuring average delivery time by carrier and service level
Note: When creating a standalone tracker using only a tracking code, EasyPost attempts to identify the best-fit carrier. However, specifying both the carrier and the tracking code is considered best practice to ensure accurate tracking results.
Retrieving previously generated reports
- Navigate to the Reports page in the Dashboard.
- Set the Object Type filter to the desired report type (e.g., Shipment Invoices, Payment Logs)
- Locate the previously generated report in the results table.
- Use the Download button to redownload the file.
Additional resources