Monitor shipping updates in email

Monitoring shipping updates in your email can help you stay on top of package deliveries. Here’s how to efficiently track them using different methods:

1. Use Email Search and Filters

Most shipping updates come with common keywords. Use these to search and organize:

• Search Terms: Try terms like “tracking number,” “shipped,” “your order,” “out for delivery,” or specific carriers like “UPS,” “FedEx,” “DHL,” or “USPS.”

• Create Filters/Rules:

  • In Gmail: Go to Settings > Filters and Blocked Addresses > Create a new filter. Set it to look for those keywords and apply a label like “Shipping Updates.”

  • In Outlook: Use Rules to automatically move matching emails to a “Shipping” folder.

2. Use a Package Tracking Service

Many services connect to your email and extract tracking numbers:

• Apps like:

  • Parcel (iOS/macOS)

  • 17TRACK

  • Shop (by Shopify)

  • AfterShip
    These automatically scan your email for tracking numbers and update you with the delivery status.

3. Use a Script or Automation (Advanced)

For Gmail users, a Google Apps Script can monitor your inbox for shipping-related emails and extract tracking details. Tools like Zapier or IFTTT can also automate this process by connecting your email to tracking services or spreadsheets.

4. Regular Manual Check

If you prefer manual checks:

• Sort emails by sender (Amazon, eBay, shipping carriers).

• Use labels or folders for different stages (Ordered, Shipped, Delivered).

• Create a simple spreadsheet to log tracking numbers and estimated delivery dates.

Would you like a sample Gmail filter setup or script to automate tracking number extraction?