Tracking Link Issue: Missing Auto-Populated Tracking Numbers

[DarkVictoryArmory]

Hello fellow Etsy sellers,

I’ve encountered an issue with the way Etsy handles tracking links when shipping labels are purchased outside of the platform. Specifically, when I input the tracking number into the order details on Etsy, the platform generates a tracking link that redirects buyers to the courier’s website. However, the tracking number is not auto-populated into the tracking field on the courier’s site.

This can cause confusion for buyers, as they’re directed to the courier’s site but must manually enter the tracking number to see the status of their shipment. It diminishes the smooth experience Etsy typically strives for and may lead to unnecessary inquiries from buyers who think the tracking isn’t working.

Has anyone else experienced this issue? How do you handle it? I’d love to know if there are any workarounds or if Etsy might consider enhancing this feature to improve the user experience.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts!

[NanaLetha]

If you are using Etsy labels, the tracking number auto-fills.

[LeLightFantastique]

the OP said problems experienced 'when shipping labels are purchased outside of the platform'

[BagmakerSupply]

@DarkVictoryArmory: Which courier are you referring to? Some have their websites set up in a way that they do not recognize a tracking number passed in a link and require that the tracking number be manually input making automated verification impossible.

[LeLightFantastique]

Yes, and some which are even recognised by Aftership, the 3rd party tracker Etsy uses, require additional info to be entered, such as destination postcode.

[DarkVictoryArmory]

A recent outbound using easyship.com and Fedex International Connect Plus going to the UK is a good example.  I purchased on EasyShip and then the tracking info transferred to Etsy, no problem.  However the link to tracking info for FedEx pointed to https://www.fedex.com/en-us/home.html

when it should have pointed to https://www.fedex.com/fedextrack/?trknbr=############

where # are numbers.

It's so easy to fix this bug.