
Tracking cargo containers is crucial for ensuring the safe and timely delivery of goods.
Using GPS tracking devices can provide real-time updates on the location and movement of cargo containers.
This technology has been shown to reduce cargo loss by up to 70% and increase delivery efficiency by 30%.
Implementing a robust tracking system requires careful planning and coordination among all stakeholders involved.
See what others are reading: High Value Cargo Transportation
Why Choose a Tracking Service?
Choosing a reliable tracking service is crucial for monitoring your cargo container. You can learn how cargo monitoring and tracking works by experiencing real-time tracking and monitoring platforms.
Real-time tracking provides peace of mind, allowing you to stay updated on your cargo's location at all times. This is especially useful for international shipments, where delays can be costly and frustrating.
You might like: Pet Cargo Air Canada
Why Choose a Tracking Service?
Choosing a tracking service can be a game-changer for your business. By selecting a reliable provider, you can stay on top of your shipments in real-time.
You can learn how cargo monitoring and tracking works by exploring the features of a tracking service. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect and how to make the most of the technology.
Real-time tracking and monitoring platforms are essential for staying connected to your shipments. They allow you to track the location, condition, and status of your cargo in real-time, giving you peace of mind and enabling you to make informed decisions.
A good tracking service will provide you with accurate and up-to-date information about your shipments. This can help you avoid delays, reduce costs, and improve customer satisfaction.
On a similar theme: Air Canada Cargo
Enter Your Information
To track your container's location, you can enter the container number, Bill of Lading number, or booking number on a tracking platform.
You can use container number, Bill of Lading (BOL), or tracking ID to locate your shipment. Some platforms allow you to track multiple containers at once.
With just one click, you'll get all your container updates on a single screen, whether you're tracking shipments across North America, Asia, or Europe.
These platforms provide real-time updates on your container's journey, including its current location, estimated arrival time, and any status changes.
For your interest: Track Us Mail to Canada
Tracking Features
You can track your container's location by entering its number, Bill of Lading number, or booking number on a tracking platform. These platforms provide real-time updates on your container's journey, including its current location, estimated arrival time, and any status changes.
A consolidated tracking platform allows you to monitor shipments from multiple shipping lines in one place, saving you time and effort. You can track containers from major carriers like Maersk, MSC, and COSCO all in one dashboard.
Real-time updates on your shipments can be received through emails, text messages, or in-app notifications, ensuring you're always informed. This way, you'll never miss an important update on your cargo.
You can view departure and arrival times, port status, and potential delays in real-time, giving you a clear picture of your shipment's progress. GPS tracking maps also allow you to check the current location of your cargo.
Arviem's cargo monitoring services track the location of air, sea, road, and rail shipments, lowering security risks and enabling organisations to reduce lead times.
On a similar theme: Auspost Tracking Online
Tracking Technology
Container tracking has become a crucial aspect of logistics, and various technologies have emerged to make it easier and more efficient. With RFID tags attached to containers, quick scanning and location tracking become possible, enabling faster inventory processing and customs clearance.
RFID technology is used at ports, warehouses, and customs checkpoints to record movements, providing real-time updates on container locations. This is especially useful for freight forwarders and shipping companies, who can use MarineTraffic and container tracking websites for general shipment tracking.
GPS and satellite tracking are also widely used, providing real-time location updates and helping prevent cargo theft and misplaced shipments. Each container is equipped with GPS sensors, which track movements across oceans, ports, and rail networks.
Here are some key tracking technologies used in cargo container tracking:
GPS & Satellite
GPS sensors on each container provide real-time location updates. This allows logistics companies to track shipments and prevent cargo theft and misplaced shipments.
Satellites track movements across oceans, ports, and rail networks, making it possible to monitor container movements in real time. This is particularly useful for perishable food shipments, where delays or temperature-related spoilage can be costly.
Here are some ways GPS and satellite tracking can benefit your business:
By using GPS and satellite tracking, you can stay on top of your shipments and ensure they arrive safely and on time.
RFID Technology
RFID Technology is a game-changer for tracking containers. With RFID tags attached to containers, you can quickly scan and track their location.
RFID technology is used at ports, warehouses, and customs checkpoints to record movements. This makes the tracking process much faster and more efficient.
RFID scanning can instantly verify which containers have arrived, which are still in transit, and which need clearance. This is especially useful for port operators who need to keep track of a large number of containers.
By using RFID technology, you can also speed up inventory processing and customs clearance. This saves time and reduces the risk of errors or lost containers.
IoT Sensors
IoT sensors are a game-changer in tracking technology, and here's why: they track not only the location of your cargo but also its conditions, such as temperature, humidity, and shock levels.
Smart IoT sensors are ideal for shipping high-value or sensitive items, like pharmaceuticals, perishable goods, and electronics. This is because they can prevent product damage and compliance violations.
For instance, a pharmaceutical company shipping vaccines overseas can use IoT sensors to ensure temperature stability during transit. This is crucial for maintaining the potency and safety of the vaccines.
IoT sensors can also help prevent cargo theft and misplaced shipments by providing real-time location updates. This is especially important for logistics companies tracking shipments across oceans, ports, and rail networks.
With IoT sensors, you can get a quick picture of the cargo in transit and in-depth analyses and visualization of the supply chain. This helps uncover inefficiencies and logistics blind spots, making it easier to make informed decisions.
Automatic Identification System
Automatic Identification System (AIS) is a game-changer for maritime tracking. AIS technology allows ships carrying containers to broadcast their location data, making it easier for businesses to track vessel movements and estimated docking times.
This technology is used by port authorities, shipping lines, and logistics companies to stay on top of their cargo. AIS helps businesses like freight forwarders estimate arrival times and schedule customs processing accordingly.
Container vessels broadcasting location data via AIS technology is a standard practice. This data is used to provide real-time updates on vessel movements and estimated docking times.
Businesses can use AIS data to make informed decisions about their cargo. For example, a freight forwarder monitoring a container vessel from Europe to the U.S. can estimate arrival times and schedule customs processing accordingly.
AIS updates are typically used to provide more frequent updates on container tracking information. However, the frequency of updates can vary depending on the shipping line and the tracking platform being used.
How Often Is Information Updated?

Container tracking information is typically updated every 24-48 hours. However, some advanced tracking systems use real-time AIS and port data to provide more frequent updates.
The frequency of updates can vary depending on the shipping line and the tracking platform you're using. This means that you may not always get real-time updates, but you can still expect regular updates to keep you informed about your container's journey.
Some tracking platforms, like MarineTraffic, offer live vessel tracking and port analytics, which can provide more frequent updates. But even with these advanced systems, updates may not be available in real-time.
Here's a rough guide to what you can expect from different types of tracking systems:
Keep in mind that update frequencies can vary depending on the shipping line and tracking platform. It's always a good idea to check with your shipping line or tracking platform to see what kind of updates you can expect.
Benefits of Tracking
Tracking your cargo containers can be a game-changer for your business. With a single click, you can get all your container updates on a single screen, no matter where your shipments are headed.
Real-time GPS tracking is a huge advantage, as it prevents theft and misplaced shipments. This can be especially helpful if you're shipping valuable goods.
Reducing the risk of cargo theft and loss is crucial, and that's where real-time GPS tracking comes in. It triggers notifications if a container is moved unexpectedly, thanks to RFID and geofencing alerts.
By tracking your containers, you can have complete visibility into their whereabouts, reducing the risk of cargo theft and loss. This is especially important for businesses that ship high-value goods.
Tracking Process
Tracking your cargo container can be a straightforward process. To start, you'll need to gather some basic information, such as your container number, which looks like a phone number with letters (e.g. XXXU1234567).
If this caught your attention, see: Canada Post Xpresspost Tracking Number
Your Bill of Lading number, on the other hand, is less standardized, but can be found on various documents. You can also locate your booking number on the first reservation slip you received.
To track your container, you can use online tools like MarineTraffic, Container Tracking Websites, or Carrier Portals. These platforms provide real-time updates on your container's journey, including its current location and estimated arrival time.
Here's a simple step-by-step guide to get you started:
- Get your container number or Bill of Lading number from your carrier or forwarder.
- Use a one-stop tool or carrier website to search and track them.
- Subscribe for updates on delays.
By following these steps, you'll be able to stay on top of your container's location and any potential issues that may arise during transit.
Best Practices
To ensure accurate tracking, it's essential to have a clear understanding of the cargo's origin, destination, and contents. This information should be documented and easily accessible.
Use a standardized tracking system to minimize errors and ensure seamless communication between parties. This system should include a unique identifier for each container, making it easier to locate and track.
Regularly update the tracking system to reflect any changes in the cargo's status or location. This will help prevent delays and ensure timely delivery.
Consider implementing a real-time tracking system to provide stakeholders with up-to-date information on the cargo's whereabouts. This can be especially useful for high-value or time-sensitive shipments.
Invest in reliable and efficient tracking technology, such as GPS or RFID, to ensure accurate and timely tracking. This will help mitigate the risk of lost or delayed containers.
Regularly review and audit the tracking system to identify areas for improvement and ensure compliance with regulations. This will help maintain a high level of accuracy and accountability.
Understanding Tracking
Tracking your cargo container is easier than ever, and it's all thanks to the power of technology.
You can track your container's location by entering the container number, Bill of Lading number, or booking number on a tracking platform. These platforms provide real-time updates on your container's journey.
Think of container tracking numbers as passports for your cargo – they're unique identifiers that help you keep tabs on your shipment.
A consolidated tracking platform allows you to track containers from multiple shipping lines in one place, saving you time and effort.
For more insights, see: Aaa Cooper Tracking Freight
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting common issues with container tracking can be frustrating, but there's no such thing as a perfect tracking system, so it's essential to tackle those annoying hiccups that pop up when you're chasing your cargo across oceans.
Real-time alerts and notifications can help you identify problems and mitigate arising risks from disruptions before they become critical. Arviem offers comprehensive options to configure e-mail notifications about shipment alarms and events according to the individual information needs of clients.
Unrecognized Phone Number
If your phone number isn't recognized, it's likely due to data validation issues, just like with container numbers, where 80% of tracking failures boil down to this problem.
First, double-check those digits, making sure they match the standard format, just like with container numbers that require four letters and seven numbers to be valid.
Switch to your account or order number – sometimes using a different identifier can get you past the recognition issue.
Outdated Information

Outdated information can be a major headache when trying to troubleshoot issues. Manual tracking data is often 24-48 hours behind real movements.
Manual tracking data is notoriously slow, usually moving at a pace that's slower than a container ship in the Suez Canal. This means that the "last updated" timestamps are your best friend in figuring out if your data is fresh or outdated.
Hitting refresh during business hours can help you get fresher data, as carriers typically update their systems during this time.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Troubleshooting Common Issues requires a clear head and a sharp eye for detail. There's no such thing as a perfect tracking system, so let's tackle those annoying hiccups that pop up when you're chasing your cargo across oceans.
First, let's acknowledge that imperfections are inevitable. You can't have a perfect tracking system.
A common issue is data discrepancies, which can be caused by human error or technical glitches. You can minimize these errors by double-checking your data and using automated systems to detect inconsistencies.

It's essential to stay calm and methodically work through the problem. Take a deep breath and break down the issue into smaller, manageable parts.
In some cases, the issue might be due to a lack of communication between teams or departments. Make sure to establish clear channels of communication and set up regular updates to prevent misunderstandings.
Don't be afraid to ask for help when you're stuck. Reach out to your colleagues or superiors for guidance and support.
What to Do If Package Is Delayed
If your package is delayed, gather all relevant shipment documentation first. This will give you a clear picture of the situation and help you communicate with the carrier.
Contact your carrier directly for the most up-to-date information on the delay. They can provide you with the latest estimated arrival time and any other relevant details.
Many tracking platforms offer automated notification services that alert you to delays. These services can be a big help in keeping you informed and up-to-date.
Delays are often due to factors like terminal congestion or weather conditions.
React to Disruptions

Reacting to disruptions is crucial in troubleshooting. Real-time alerts and notifications can help identify problems and mitigate risks before they become critical.
Having the right tools can make all the difference. Arviem offers comprehensive options to configure e-mail notifications about shipment alarms and events, allowing clients to tailor their information needs.
Identifying problems early on can prevent more severe consequences. Real-time alerts and notifications can help users stay on top of issues before they escalate.
By staying informed, users can take proactive steps to mitigate risks. This can lead to better outcomes and reduced downtime.
Tracking Options
You can track your cargo container's location by entering the container number, Bill of Lading number, or booking number on a tracking platform. These platforms provide real-time updates on your container's journey, including its current location, estimated arrival time, and any status changes.
There are various tracking options available, depending on your needs. You can use a consolidated tracking platform to track containers from multiple shipping lines in one place. This saves you time and effort, as you can monitor shipments from major carriers like Maersk, MSC, and COSCO all in one dashboard.
To track your container, you'll need to know the tracking reference. This can be the Bill of Lading (B/L) number, which is usually found in the top right corner and consists of four letters from your carrier followed by 8-12 digits. Alternatively, you can use the booking number, which is the VIP reservation slip for your cargo.
Here are some popular tracking tools and their key features:
By using a tracking tool, you can stay up-to-date on your cargo's location and estimated arrival time. This can help you plan and prepare for its arrival, reducing the risk of delays and lost shipments.
What Is It Useful For?
Tracking cargo containers is incredibly useful for managing international shipments, particularly when shipping multiple containers at once. This helps ensure everything arrives on time and in one piece.
Shipping internationally can be a complex process, but with container tracking, you can stay on top of your goods' journey and make adjustments as needed.
Time-sensitive or high-value goods require extra attention, and container tracking provides real-time updates, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to take swift action if anything goes awry.
Optimizing supply chain efficiency is a major goal for many businesses, and container tracking is a key tool in achieving this. By monitoring container movement and status, you can identify bottlenecks and make informed decisions to streamline your logistics.
Worth a look: Hamburg Express-class Container Ship
Supply Chain Optimization
Optimized visibility is key to simplifying logistics management, making complex logistics operations a thing of the past with tools like GoComet.
By sharing precise shipment updates with customers and stakeholders, logistics teams can build trust and transparency in their operations, leading to enhanced customer satisfaction.
The secret to container tracking is picking the right tools, staying ahead of issues, and keeping documentation handy, making it easier to plan warehouse and trucking operations accordingly.
Enhanced Customer Satisfaction
Building trust and transparency in your logistics operations is crucial for enhanced customer satisfaction.
Share precise shipment updates with your customers and stakeholders to achieve this.
This simple yet effective approach helps customers stay informed about the status of their shipments, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.
By keeping them in the loop, you demonstrate a commitment to their satisfaction and build long-term relationships.
Sharing shipment updates also allows customers to plan ahead and make necessary arrangements, further increasing their satisfaction.
This approach is a key component of supply chain optimization, enabling you to deliver exceptional customer experiences and drive business growth.
Improved Supply Chain Visibility
Improved Supply Chain Visibility is a game-changer for logistics operations. With real-time status updates, you can know exactly where your shipment is at all times.
Preventing unexpected delays is a major advantage of improved supply chain visibility. By tracking your shipments in real-time, you can stay ahead of issues and keep your customers informed.
Arviem's core service, condition monitoring and location tracking of cargo in transit, reveals what's happening to the cargo while in transit. This helps you plan better and take proactive action in case of delays.
You can track the top ten ocean liners or sign up for a one-stop container tracking solution across 99% of all container liners. This makes it easy to stay on top of your shipments, even when vessels hit remote areas.
Real-time cargo monitoring and dynamic ETA calculation enable you to predict when shipments will arrive. This helps you align warehouse staffing and trucking schedules with container arrival times, optimizing your supply chain operations and avoiding delays.
Data and Notifications
Data and Notifications play a vital role in ensuring that your cargo is tracked and delivered on time. Monitoring devices attached to the cargo collect information in real-time, transmitting data to the analytics platform.
In case of disruptions, notifications with actionable information are provided to clients, helping to uncover inefficiencies and logistics blind spots. This is made possible by Arviem’s data analytics platform, which provides both a quick picture on the cargo in transit and in-depth analyses.
You can receive real-time updates on your shipments through emails, text messages, or in-app notifications. This ensures you’re always informed about the status of your cargo, including departure and arrival times, port status, and potential delays.
Using GPS tracking maps, you can check the current location of your cargo, giving you a clear picture of its journey. This level of transparency and visibility helps to reduce stress and uncertainty, making it easier to manage your supply chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to track an lcl container?
To track an LCL container, select your booking type as "Less-than-container-load (LCL)" and enter your 10-14 character B/L or booking number. This will provide you with full tracking details.
Can I track one container?
Yes, you can track a container using its unique One container number. This number allows for easy identification and tracking of the container.
Can container ships be tracked?
Yes, container ships can be tracked in real-time using GPS devices, providing visibility of their location and status. This enables shippers, carriers, and customers to monitor their shipments and plan accordingly.
How do I track ocean freight?
To track ocean freight, enter your container number, booking number, or bill of lading number for real-time status updates. You can also use Ocean Shipment Tracking for basic visibility without a user ID or password.
Sources
- https://ct.shipmentlink.com/servlet/TDB1_CargoTracking.do
- https://www.gocomet.com/real-time-container-tracking
- https://www.linbis.com/general/shipping-container-tracking/
- https://www.freightos.com/resources/ocean-shipping-container-tracking-real-time-updates/
- https://www.mtcontainer.com/container-tracking/
- https://arviem.com/track-and-trace-container-tracking/
Featured Images: pexels.com