How Do You Track An Ocean Container?

July 21, 2022
Photo by Dominik Lückmann on Unsplash

Have you ever wondered what it is like to track a container that is making its journey through the ocean? Do you wish to know how you can, in the comfort of your very home, track an ocean container?

If your answer to these questions is yes, then you have found yourself coming to the right article. Here we will be taking a look at several ways you could track an ocean container, so without further ado, let’s dive right into it.

Understanding container tracking

Before we begin discussing some of the ways you could track a container, it is crucial for us to understand what container tracking really is. Well, to put it simply, there are many online website tools that enable an individual to safely track the exact whereabouts of their container.

Although most of the time, companies operate on a policy that notifies the person of the status of their shipment, in case it does not, online container tracking can be a great tool.

Some of the most important status changes are when the vessel containing the container departs, stops at a mid location, and finally arrives at the desired spot.

Use of container tracking acronyms

It does not matter which online tracking website tool you use, as essentially, you would need to understand the acronyms.

For instance, An ETA stands for estimated arrival time which can be viewed to see when the container will arrive in your country.

POL stands for port of loading, which is used to indicate the exact location where the container departed from. Another important term is the POD which stands for port of discharge, which is essentially used to indicate the port of destination where the container is unloaded.

Special tracking feature

Many people out there are not aware of this, but when it comes to ocean container tracking, especially the ones traveling through the ocean, one can use the tracking number which is given to track the exact whereabouts of the container as well as figure out the estimated time of arrival.

Although the tracking number differs by country and company, it is important that you use them when in need as it will help you save loads of time.

With the help of a tracking number, you would not need to enter your booking number, shipment contacts, and other personal details to get an insight into the whereabouts of the container.

GPS tracker

Lastly, another important way you could track the location and condition of your container is through a GPS tracker. There are many websites and apps where it allows an individual to safely input the details of their package and know where their shipment is headed.

As its name suggests, a GPS tracker uses the help of GPS to connect your servers, such as a laptop or mobile phone, with the shipment, such as large tanks or ships.

In order to know the location of the container through a GPS tracker, it is important that you have all the useful information in your hands, such as the phone number, reference number, company name and details, place of origin, and much more.

The takeaway

So that concludes the end of this article, folks! Hopefully, you have been able to understand and know a few ways how you could track your ocean container. It may seem like a difficult task, but with the right details and tracking knowledge, you will easily be able to locate the whereabouts of your shipment.

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