Adding shipping tracking to your ecommerce store can be done easily using free or low-cost tools that integrate with major carriers and automatically notify customers. Most popular UK platforms offer built-in options or simple plugins that connect to courier APIs for real-time updates.
This guide explains practical methods for small UK brands, focusing on automation that reduces manual work while improving customer experience. The steps use verifiable approaches available on common platforms and services.
Why Automatic Tracking Updates Matter for Small Brands
Customers expect to know where their orders are. When tracking links are sent automatically, enquiries about delivery status drop. This saves time that would otherwise be spent answering emails or messages.
For small teams, manual updates become unsustainable as order volume grows. Automation pulls data from the carrier and sends it to the customer at key points such as dispatch, out for delivery and delivery confirmation. The process works in the background once set up correctly.
UK carriers including Royal Mail, DPD, Hermes (Evri) and DHL provide tracking numbers that can be used in these systems. Choosing a method that matches the carriers you use avoids extra work.
Free Methods Using Platform Built-in Tools
Many ecommerce platforms include basic tracking features at no extra cost. Start by checking your current platform settings before adding third-party tools.
- Shopify: Use the free Shopify Shipping labels if you print through them. The system automatically sends a tracking email when the order is marked as fulfilled. For other carriers, add the tracking number manually in the order screen; Shopify then emails the customer the link.
- WooCommerce: Install the free WooCommerce Shipment Tracking plugin from the official repository. After activation, enter the carrier name and tracking number on each order. The plugin can send automatic emails if configured in the settings.
- BigCommerce and Squarespace: Check the built-in order fulfilment section. Most allow adding a tracking URL that appears in the customer account and order confirmation emails.
These options require you to enter the tracking number yourself but handle the customer notification automatically. They work well when order numbers are still low.
Low-Cost Automation with Carrier APIs and Plugins
When manual entry becomes time-consuming, connect directly to carrier systems for automatic import of tracking data. Several affordable tools handle this for UK sellers.
AfterShip offers a free plan for up to 100 shipments per month. Sign up, connect your store via API or plugin, and add your carrier accounts. The system then pulls tracking updates and sends branded emails or SMS to customers. Paid plans start at a modest monthly fee once volumes increase.
TrackMage and ParcelPanel provide similar functionality. Install the WordPress plugin for WooCommerce or use the Shopify app. Both allow automatic status updates and customer notifications. Test the free tier first to confirm it works with your main carriers.
For Royal Mail specifically, their free Business Account lets you generate tracked labels. Connect this to your store using a plugin such as the official Royal Mail Shipping for WooCommerce or a compatible third-party integration. Tracking numbers are added automatically when labels are printed.
Step-by-Step Setup for Automatic Tracking on Shopify
1. Log into your Shopify admin and go to Settings > Shipping and delivery.
2. Under Tracking, ensure customer notifications are enabled. These cover the main status changes.
3. If using a third-party app, visit the Shopify App Store and search for "tracking". Install a free or low-cost option such as AfterShip or ParcelPanel.
4. Connect your store to the app and authorise access to orders.
5. Add your carrier accounts inside the app using your existing courier credentials. Most carriers provide API keys in their business portals.
6. Test by placing a sample order, marking it as fulfilled with a real tracking number, and checking that the customer receives the update.
7. Review the notification templates inside the app. Edit the wording to match your brand tone while keeping the tracking link prominent.
This setup usually takes under an hour and runs without further daily input.
Step-by-Step Setup for WooCommerce Stores
1. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Add New and search for "WooCommerce Shipment Tracking" or "AfterShip".
2. Install and activate the chosen plugin.
3. Navigate to WooCommerce > Settings > Shipment Tracking.
4. Add the carriers you use from the pre-filled list. For custom carriers, enter the tracking URL format manually. Replace the tracking number placeholder with %number% or follow the plugin instructions.
5. Enable automatic customer emails for status changes.
6. When processing orders, the fulfilment screen will now show fields for carrier and tracking number. Enter these once the courier has collected the parcel.
7. For higher volumes, connect the plugin to a carrier API. This pulls updates every few hours and changes order status automatically from "Processing" to "Completed" on delivery.
Check the plugin documentation for exact field names as they vary between versions.
Improving the Customer Experience with Tracking Pages
A self-service tracking page reduces support requests. Both AfterShip and similar tools provide a hosted tracking page that can be linked from your website footer or order confirmation.
Customise the page with your logo and colours to maintain brand consistency. Customers enter their order number or email and see all shipments in one place.
Combine email notifications with this page so customers have multiple ways to check progress. Include a clear explanation in the initial order confirmation that a tracking link will arrive separately once the item is dispatched.
Monitor which carriers cause the most delays by reviewing reports inside the tracking tool. This information helps you manage expectations in product descriptions or at checkout.
Choosing the Right Approach for Your Business
Begin with the free built-in features of your platform. Move to a dedicated tracking tool only when the time saved justifies the cost. Test any new service with a small number of orders first to ensure the carrier connections work reliably with your fulfilment method.
Keep an eye on data privacy. Any tool that sends customer emails must comply with UK GDPR rules. Review the provider's terms regularly as platform policies and fees change.
Loomworks in West Yorkshire supports selected early-stage ecommerce founders with free desks, a registered address and mentoring. Such resources can help test these tracking methods without increasing overheads while you refine operations.
Frequently asked questions
Can I add tracking without paying for an app?
Yes. Most platforms let you add a tracking number manually in the order details. The system then includes the link in the fulfilment notification email automatically. This works for low volumes and requires no extra cost beyond your existing plan.
Which carriers work best with automatic tracking tools?
Royal Mail, DPD, Evri and DHL integrate reliably with most tracking plugins and apps used by UK stores. Check the specific tool's supported carriers list before committing. Some smaller couriers may need manual updates.
How do customers receive tracking updates?
The usual method is an automated email sent when the order status changes. Some tools also offer SMS notifications for an additional fee. A branded tracking page lets customers check status without waiting for emails.
Does adding tracking affect my store's processing time?
The initial setup takes between thirty minutes and two hours. Once configured, entering or importing tracking numbers adds only a few seconds per order. Automatic status updates actually reduce overall admin time by cutting customer enquiries.
What should I do if the tracking information is wrong?
Always verify the tracking number before fulfilling the order. Test the link yourself. If an error occurs, contact the carrier promptly and update the order record so the correct information reaches the customer.
Related reading: Managing seasonal inventory spikes for UK ecommerce sellers, What should a UK ecommerce refund policy include?, Integrating a 3PL with Shopify for small UK brands. Browse all fulfilment & logistics guides or apply to Loomworks.