Tracking order status on Shopify is essential for delivering a smooth customer experience. Customers expect clear visibility from checkout to delivery, and Shopify already provides built-in tools to support this without installing extra apps.
This guide explains only the main steps to enable order tracking using Shopify’s native features.
Order Tracking on Shopify Overview
Shopify includes built-in order tracking features that allow customers to:
View order progress after checkout
Receive order and shipping notifications
Track shipments using carrier tracking numbers
These tools help reduce customer inquiries and improve transparency.
How to Enable Order Tracking for Customers on Shopify
Use the Shopify Order Status Page
The Order Status Page is the core of Shopify’s order tracking system.
How it works:
Customers are redirected to this page immediately after checkout
The page shows order details and current fulfillment status
Customers can revisit it later via their account or email links
What to check:
Go to Settings → Notifications → Order Confirmation
Preview the email and confirm the “View your order” link is included
Configure Order Tracking Notifications
Shopify automatically sends notifications at different order stages.
Key notifications include:
Order confirmation – sent after checkout
Shipping confirmation – sent when the order is fulfilled
Shipping update – sent when a tracking number is added
Out for delivery – sent when the carrier marks the shipment
Delivered – sent after successful delivery
These emails help customers track order status without contacting support.
Add a Tracking Number to Orders
Tracking updates only work when a tracking number is added.
Steps:
Go to Orders in Shopify Admin
Open the order
Mark it as Fulfilled
Click Add tracking number
Save the order
Once added, Shopify automatically updates the order status page.
Customize the Order Status Page
You can adjust the order status page to match your store branding.
Steps:
Go to Settings → Checkout → Configurations
Select the active configuration
Click Customize
Choose Order status page from the dropdown
This helps maintain a consistent customer experience.
Understand Shopify Order Statuses
Shopify uses standard order statuses, including:
Confirmed – order created but not shipped
On its way – order is in transit
Out for delivery – shipment arriving soon
Delivered – order completed
Attempted delivery – delivery attempt failed
Supported carriers can also display real-time location updates.
Common Challenges When Tracking Orders
Carrier Limitations
Not all carriers support real-time updates. Shopify-supported carriers provide the best tracking experience.
Tracking Delays
Carrier updates may be delayed. It’s recommended to set clear expectations in tracking emails.
Missing Tracking Numbers
Orders without tracking numbers cannot show shipment progress. Always add tracking details when fulfilling orders.
Best Practices for Order Tracking on Shopify
Always include order status links in emails
Add tracking numbers as soon as orders ship
Keep notifications clear and concise
Test the order tracking flow regularly
FAQs
Can customers track orders without an account?
Yes. Customers can access the order status page using the link sent in their confirmation email.
Does Shopify send SMS tracking updates?
Shopify sends SMS for order confirmation only. Shipping updates are sent via email.
Is order tracking free on Shopify?
Yes. Shopify’s native order tracking features are included at no extra cost.
What happens if a carrier is not supported?
The order status page will show a tracking number that links to the carrier’s website.
Conclusion
Enabling customers to track order status on Shopify is simple using Shopify’s built-in tools. By setting up the order status page, configuring notifications, and adding tracking numbers correctly, you can provide clear and reliable order updates without relying on third-party apps.
A well-configured order tracking system improves customer trust, reduces support requests, and creates a better post-purchase experience.
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