Sending or receiving a parcel is often accompanied by a feeling of anticipation. You want to know where your package is and when it will reach its destination. That’s where tracking numbers come in! An Post tracking numbers, in particular, provide a convenient way to monitor your parcel’s journey. This blog post will break down everything you need to know about An Post tracking numbers and answer frequently asked questions about the process.
Table of Contents
- Anatomy of an An Post Tracking Number
- How to Use Your An Post Tracking Number
- Tracked vs. Non-Tracked Services
- An Post Tracking – Common Issues & Solutions
- An Post Scam Awareness
- FAQs
Anatomy of an An Post Tracking Number
An An Post tracking number, also referred to as an “an post tracking id” or “an post tracking id number,” follows a specific structure:
- Two Letters: The tracking number always begins with two letters. These letters can vary depending on the type of service used to send the parcel.
- Nine Numbers: The letters are followed by a sequence of nine numbers.
- “IE” Ending: The number concludes with “IE,” indicating that the parcel originated in Ireland.
Example of an An Post Tracking Number: RR123456789IE
Where to Find Your An Post Tracking Number
- Post Office Receipt: When you send a parcel from the post office, the tracking number will be clearly printed on your receipt.
- Click & Post Confirmation Email: If you use An Post’s Click & Post service to create and pay for postage online, you’ll receive a confirmation email containing the tracking number.
- Provided by the Sender: If you’re the recipient of a parcel, the sender should be able to provide you with the tracking number.
How to Use Your An Post Tracking Number
An Post’s online Track & Trace tool makes it simple to monitor your parcel. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Track & Trace Tool: Go to the An Post website and navigate to the Track & Trace tool. You can find it directly at: https://www.anpost.com/Post-Parcels/Track/Search.
- Enter Your Tracking Number: Type in the 13-character An Post tracking number (e.g., RR123456789IE) in the search field provided.
- Retrieve Tracking Information: Click on the “Track” button. The tool will display the latest tracking updates for your parcel, including its current location and estimated delivery timeframe.
Tracking International Parcels
For international parcels, An Post’s Track & Trace tool will provide updates up to the point where the parcel leaves Ireland. Once it reaches the destination country, you may need to use the tracking system of the recipient country’s postal service for continued updates. An Post provides a helpful list of International Carriers on their website: https://www.anpost.com/Post-Parcels/Sending/International-Postal-Carriers.
Tracked vs. Non-Tracked Services
An Post offers both tracked and non-tracked services for sending parcels and mail.
- Tracked Services: When you choose a tracked service like Registered Post, Express Post, or parcels sent via Click & Post, you receive a tracking number that enables you to monitor your item’s progress. Tracked services also offer the added security of knowing the exact location of your parcel and the ability to obtain proof of delivery.
- Non-Tracked Services: These services are generally more economical but do not provide a tracking number. If you’ve used a non-tracked service, it’s sometimes possible to upgrade to a tracked service by visiting a post office. This allows you to obtain a tracking number and gain access to tracking updates.
An Post Tracking – Common Issues and Solutions
Even with tracked services, you might encounter some common issues:
- “Dispatched” but Not Trackable: If your parcel’s status shows as “Dispatched” on the sender’s end but is not yet appearing on An Post’s Track & Trace, it means that An Post hasn’t received and scanned the item into their system yet. Rest assured, it will become trackable once An Post receives it.
- Trans Ref ID vs. Tracking Number: The “Trans Ref ID” on a post office receipt is not the same as a tracking number. This ID simply records your transaction at the post office. Remember, a valid An Post tracking number will always follow the format of two letters, nine numbers, and the “IE” ending.
- Delayed Parcels: Delays can occur, particularly during peak seasons like holidays or during unexpected events. While waiting for your parcel, use the Track & Trace tool to stay updated on its status. If you experience significant delays, consider contacting An Post customer support for assistance.
An Post Scam Awareness
Unfortunately, scammers often try to take advantage of people waiting for deliveries. Be wary of suspicious text messages claiming to be from An Post.
- An Post Will Never Request Payment via Text: An Post will never send you a text message requesting payment for a parcel. They will also never include a payment link in a text message.
- Red Flags of Scam Messages: Look out for these common indicators of fake An Post text messages:
- Poor Grammar and Spelling Mistakes: Legitimate messages from An Post will be well-written.
- Sense of Urgency: Scammers often create a false sense of urgency to pressure you into acting quickly.
- Requests for Personal Information: Never provide personal or financial information in response to an unsolicited text message.
Staying Safe from Scams
- Do NOT Click on Links: If you receive a suspicious text message, do not click on any links contained within it.
- Report the Scam to An Post: Forward the text message to An Post.
- An Post Security Hub: An Post’s website has a dedicated Security Hub with information on how to identify scams and protect yourself: https://www.anpost.com/Security.
FAQs
- Can I track prepaid gift packaging? Prepaid gift packaging is typically sent using a non-tracked service. However, you can upgrade to a tracked service when sending it from the post office. This will provide you with a tracking number.
- How do I get a copy of the signature for my parcel? If you require proof of delivery, go to the Track & Trace tool and enter your tracking number. If a signature was obtained upon delivery, you should see an option to request a copy of the signature. You can often download a PDF of the delivery record instantly.
- How long will an international parcel take to arrive? Delivery times for international parcels vary depending on the destination country and the chosen service. An Post can provide general estimates, but keep in mind that delays may occur, especially during peak seasons or due to unforeseen circumstances.