How to Find the Reference Number for Each Package in FedEx Ship Manager

September 27, 2024
by Anthony Robinson

How to Find the Reference Number for Each Package in FedEx Ship Manager

FedEx Ship Manager is a critical tool for businesses that need to handle their shipping operations. One of the most crucial pieces of information for managing these operations is the reference number for each package. In this article, we will explore the importance of the reference number and guide you through finding and utilizing it in FedEx Ship Manager.

What is the Reference Number in FedEx Ship Manager?

Before we dive into the details of finding reference numbers in FedEx Ship Manager, let’s first define what it is. A reference number is a unique identifier assigned to a package that can be used for tracking and managing the package throughout its journey. It is typically a combination of letters and numbers that can be easily recognized and searched in the FedEx system.

This number is particularly used for internal purposes, and it can help you track down a package that may have gone missing or overlooked. It’s important to note that reference numbers can also be used for other purposes, such as linking multiple packages together for billing or reporting purposes. Additionally, some businesses may use their own internal reference numbers to track packages, which can be entered into FedEx Ship Manager for easier management. Understanding the importance and versatility of reference numbers can help streamline your shipping process and ensure that your packages are properly tracked and managed.

Why is the Reference Number Important in FedEx Ship Manager?

The reference number in FedEx Ship Manager is essential for a variety of reasons:

  • Provides an efficient way to track down a particular package in the system.
  • Helps manage multiple packages quickly and easily, particularly if they have a unique identifier assigned to them for administrative purposes.
  • Can perform quick searches, which can be helpful in identifying packages that may have been misplaced or delayed during transit.
  • Can provide additional information about the package, such as its contents, destination address, and any special handling instructions.
  • Helps prevent errors and ensures packages are delivered to the correct destination by including a unique identifier in the reference number.

Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Reference Number in FedEx Ship Manager

To find the reference number for each package in FedEx Ship Manager, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the FedEx Ship Manager homepage.
  2. Click on the “Recent Shipments” option located near the top of the homepage.
  3. Select the shipment containing the package whose reference number you want to find.
  4. Once the shipment’s details are displayed, locate the package whose reference number you want to find. The reference number will be displayed in the “Package Details” section of the shipment details.

The reference number is a unique identifier for each package and is often used by the sender and receiver to track the package’s progress. This number can also be used to request proof of delivery or to file a claim in case of any issues with the package during transit.

Different Ways to Locate the Reference Number in FedEx Ship Manager

There are several ways to locate the reference number in FedEx Ship Manager:

  • Look for the reference number on your shipping label.
  • Find the reference number in the shipment confirmation email provided by FedEx.
  • Navigate to the shipment’s details page, as outlined in the previous step-by-step guide section, to locate the reference number.
  • Check the invoice or receipt provided by FedEx; the reference number is usually listed alongside other important shipment details such as the tracking number and delivery address.
  • If you have a FedEx account, log in and view your shipment history to find the reference number for any previous shipments.

It is important to have the reference number handy as it can be used to track your shipment and resolve any issues that may arise during the shipping process.

How to Edit or Add Reference Numbers in FedEx Ship Manager

It is possible to edit or add reference numbers in FedEx Ship Manager. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Go to the FedEx Ship Manager homepage.
  2. Click on the “Recent Shipments” option located near the top of the homepage.
  3. Select the shipment that contains the package whose reference number you want to edit or add.
  4. Once the shipment’s details are displayed, locate the package whose reference number you want to edit or add.
  5. Click on the pencil icon next to the reference number field.
  6. Edit the reference number or add a new one in the field.
  7. Save your changes.

It is recommended that you keep reference numbers up-to-date and accurate to ensure that your packages are delivered to the correct destination. If you are shipping internationally, you may need to provide additional documentation, such as a commercial invoice or a certificate of origin. These documents may require reference numbers to be included. By editing or adding reference numbers in FedEx Ship Manager, you can ensure that your international shipments are properly documented and comply with all necessary regulations.

Tips for Using the Reference Number Feature in FedEx Ship Manager

To get the most out of the reference number feature, it is essential to use it consistently and accurately:

  • Use a standardized naming convention when assigning reference numbers to packages to avoid confusion or misplaced packages.
  • Consider using descriptive keywords in your reference numbers to help identify the package contents and shipping destination quickly.
  • Verify that the reference number you are using matches the shipment’s details to avoid any errors.
  • Maintain a record of the reference numbers assigned to each package, along with the corresponding shipment details to quickly locate a package or track its delivery status.
  • If shipping multiple packages with different reference numbers, consider creating a spreadsheet or document to keep track of all the reference numbers and their associated details.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Finding Reference Numbers in FedEx Ship Manager

If you are having trouble finding the reference number for a package in FedEx Ship Manager, try these troubleshooting steps:

  • Double-check that you have selected the correct shipment and package within the FedEx Ship Manager dashboard.
  • Try reaching out to FedEx customer support for assistance if you still cannot locate the reference number.
  • If the reference number was not entered correctly at the time of shipment, contact the sender of the package to confirm the correct reference number.
  • Use the tracking number provided by FedEx to track the package and retrieve the reference number from the shipment details.

Advanced Features of Reference Numbers in FedEx Ship Manager

Advanced features of reference numbers in FedEx Ship Manager include:

  • Using them as a reference for customs paperwork.
  • Identifying brokerage fees.
  • Applying shipping discounts for repeat customers.
  • More efficient package tracking by assigning unique reference numbers to each package.

By customizing and using reference numbers in this way, businesses can streamline their shipping operations and improve the customer experience.

Other Helpful Tools and Features in FedEx Ship Manager

Apart from the reference number feature, FedEx Ship Manager offers several other helpful tools and features:

  • Automatic tracking updates.
  • Shipping cost calculators.
  • International shipping tools.
  • Ability to schedule pickups for your packages, saving time and effort in dropping them off at a FedEx location.
  • Option to set up recurring pickups for regular shipments for added convenience.

Take the time to explore these features and determine which ones will benefit your business operations the most.

In conclusion, the reference number feature in FedEx Ship Manager is a critical tool for managing your shipping operations and ensuring that packages are delivered promptly and efficiently. By using this feature consistently and accurately, you can streamline your operations, improve tracking, and enhance the customer experience.

About the Author

Anthony Robinson is the CEO of ShipScience, a pioneering company dedicated to helping e-commerce leaders optimize their shipping decisions, reduce costs, and automate tedious processes. With a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Stanford University, Anthony brings over a decade of expertise in logistics, business development, and operational efficiency to the table.

Since founding ShipScience in 2018, Anthony has empowered numerous e-commerce businesses to navigate the complexities of parcel shipping through data-driven insights and innovative solutions. His leadership extends beyond ShipScience, having established Refund Geeks and served on advisory boards at Ciye and RESA Power, showcasing his commitment to driving corporate growth and enhancing operational strategies.

Anthony is passionate about leveraging technology to streamline supply chains and improve customer experiences in the last mile. When he’s not strategizing shipping solutions, he enjoys connecting with industry leaders and staying ahead of the latest trends in e-commerce and logistics.

Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn to learn more about his work and insights on optimizing shipping for e-commerce businesses.

Revolutionize your parcel shipping strategy.

Get a free analysis
© Copyright 2024 ShipScience.com. All Rights Reserved.  Terms of Use  |  Privacy