How to Track Walmart Orders A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Waiting for a package can feel like an eternity, especially when you're not sure where it is. If you've got a Walmart order on the way, the easiest starting point is always your 'Purchase History' right on the Walmart website or app. This dashboard gives you a quick snapshot of your order’s journey, from 'Processing' all the way to 'Delivered'.

Your Essential Guide to Tracking Walmart Orders

When you’re anticipating a delivery, a little bit of information goes a long way. But let's be honest—with so many items shipping every day, the tracking process can get messy. This guide is designed to cut through that confusion and give you straightforward, practical ways to follow your packages from the moment you click "buy" until they land on your doorstep.

We'll walk through all the essential methods, so you'll feel completely in control of every order you place.

Why Does Walmart Order Tracking Get So Complicated?

The sheer scale of Walmart's operation is mind-boggling. In fiscal year 2025, Walmart pulled in an incredible $681 billion in total revenue, with online sales accounting for $120.9 billion of that. They serve around 270 million customers every week across the globe.

What does that mean for you? Millions of orders are flying out the door daily, handled by a mix of carriers like UPS, FedEx, and USPS. Juggling Walmart's app, email notifications, and different carrier websites to find your package can quickly become a real headache. You can dig deeper into Walmart's massive scale on electroiq.com to see just how big their logistics network is.

Key Takeaway: The enormous number of orders, combined with a sprawling network of first-party and third-party sellers, creates a complex shipping environment. This is exactly why finding one reliable way to track everything is such a game-changer.

To help you navigate this, we'll break down every option you have.

• Using Walmart's Built-in Tools: We’ll show you how to get a quick status update directly from your Walmart account.
• Tracking with the Carrier: You’ll learn why going straight to the carrier’s website often gives you the most detailed, up-to-the-minute information.
• Handling Marketplace Orders: We’ll cover the unique quirks of tracking items that ship from different sellers.

By the time you're done, you'll know exactly how to find your package, what to do if things get stuck, and how to make the entire process simpler for good. Let's dive in.

How to Track Orders on the Walmart Website and App

The first and easiest place to check on your delivery is right where you placed the order: Walmart's website or app. Think of it as your home base for all things related to your purchases. Both platforms give you a clean, centralized view of your order's journey from their warehouse to your door.

This is my go-to method for a quick status check. You don't have to go digging for tracking numbers or carrier details just yet—it’s all laid out for you in one place.

Finding Your Purchase History

Everything starts with your Purchase History. It’s the official record of everything you've bought.

On the Walmart website, just log in and click your account icon in the top-right corner. You'll see "Purchase History" in the dropdown menu. If you’re on the Walmart app, it’s just as simple: tap the "Account" icon at the bottom and then hit "Purchase History."

This page will show you a list of all your recent orders, with the newest ones at the top. You’ll see the items, the total cost, and most importantly, a snapshot of its current delivery status.

Pro Tip: Can't find an order you know you placed? The most common culprit is being logged into the wrong account. Many of us have old accounts tied to different emails. It's a simple mistake, but one I've made myself more than once.

Understanding Each Tracking Status

Next to each order, you’ll see its current status and a big, blue "Track Shipment" button. Clicking that button dives deeper, showing you a progress bar that maps out your package’s trip.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what those statuses actually mean:

• Processing: Your order is in! The warehouse team is now picking your items off the shelves and getting them packed up in a box.
• Shipped: It’s official—your package has left the building. It's been handed off to a carrier like FedEx, UPS, or USPS, and this is the moment a tracking number is assigned.
• On its way: This is the active travel phase. Your box is moving through the carrier's system, getting scanned at different hubs as it makes its way closer to you.
• Delivered: Success! The carrier has confirmed the package was dropped off at your address.

Walmart's built-in tracker is fantastic for these high-level updates. But if you're like me and want to see the nitty-gritty details—like exactly what city your package is in right now—you’ll want to grab that tracking number and pop it into the carrier’s own website.

Go Straight to the Source: Using Carrier Tracking Numbers for Real-Time Updates

While Walmart’s own tracking system gives you a great high-level view, it can sometimes lag behind what the carrier knows. For the most precise, up-to-the-minute information, you'll want to go directly to the source: the shipping company that has your package in hand. This is where your carrier tracking number becomes invaluable.

Think of it this way: Walmart's tracker gives you the movie trailer—it hits the main plot points. But the carrier’s tracking page is the full feature film, showing you every single stop and scan as your package makes its way to you.

Finding Your Key to Granular Tracking

So, where do you find this magic number? It's simple. Just head to your Purchase History on the Walmart website or app and click "Track Shipment" on the order you’re curious about. On the next screen, you’ll see the carrier’s name (like FedEx, UPS, or USPS) with a long string of numbers and letters right beside it. That's your tracking number.

Once you have it, just copy the number, open a new tab, and head to that carrier’s official website. You'll find a tracking bar right on their homepage where you can paste it in.

Expert Tip: I make it a habit to do this as soon as an order is marked "Shipped." Carrier websites often show "micro-updates" that Walmart's system might not, such as "Arrived at Sort Facility" or "Out for Delivery." These little details can give you a much clearer idea of when your package will actually show up.

After you've entered the number on the carrier’s site, you'll unlock a treasure trove of information. Every scan, every stop, and every status change is laid out for you. This level of detail is a lifesaver if there’s a delay, as you might see a specific reason—like a weather hold or a logistical snag—long before that info trickles back into Walmart's system.

Why This Matters Even More for Marketplace Orders

Using the carrier’s site is absolutely essential when you buy from a Walmart Marketplace seller. These are third-party businesses that handle their own shipping, and they often use a much wider variety of couriers beyond the big names. You might see your package is coming via OnTrac, LaserShip, or even a smaller regional service.

Because these sellers operate independently, their tracking updates aren't always perfectly integrated with Walmart's platform. Your best bet for accuracy is always to take that tracking number and plug it directly into the courier's website. If you're having trouble finding it, our guide on how to find your tracking number can walk you through it.

The Power of Direct Carrier Information

Checking directly with the carrier gives you several key advantages:

• Real-Time Updates: The information is posted the moment a barcode is scanned, cutting out any potential delay from Walmart's system.
• Detailed Exception Notices: You'll be the first to know about issues like an incorrect address, a failed delivery attempt, or a customs hold.
• Precise Location Data: Instead of just "In Transit," you can see exactly which city and sorting facility your package is currently in.
• Delivery Management Options: Many carriers let you take action right from their site. You might be able to schedule a delivery window, hold the package for pickup, or even redirect it to a different address.

This direct approach puts you in the driver's seat, turning you from a passive watcher into an informed and empowered customer.

Solving Common Walmart Tracking Issues

Even the best systems have hiccups, and tracking a Walmart order can sometimes hit a snag. We’ve all been there: a package is marked "Delivered" but isn't on your doorstep, or the tracking status gets stuck on "In Transit" for days. It's frustrating, for sure, but most of these issues have a simple explanation and a clear path to getting things sorted out.

Knowing what to do when things go wrong can save you a ton of time and worry. Let's walk through the most common problems and the practical steps you can take to solve them.

What to Do When Tracking Information Is Stuck

One of the most frequent headaches is seeing your package's status freeze in place. It might be sitting at a sorting facility or just showing "In Transit" for what feels like an eternity. Before you start to worry, just remember that delays are a normal part of the shipping game.

Here’s a quick checklist to run through before you do anything else:

• Check Carrier Alerts: Pop over to the FedEx, UPS, or USPS website directly. They almost always post service alerts for widespread delays caused by bad weather or other major disruptions.
• Give It Some Time: A package can easily go a few days without a new scan, especially if it's on a long haul between major hubs. I usually give it at least 48-72 hours of no movement before I raise an eyebrow.
• Look at the Last Scan: If the last update shows it arrived at a local facility, it’s probably just waiting its turn to get loaded onto the final delivery truck. The delay is annoying, but it's usually temporary.

If a few days go by with complete radio silence and there are no service alerts, that's your cue to contact Walmart support or the Marketplace seller. They have the ability to initiate a "tracer" with the carrier to figure out where your package is.

The reality is that with Walmart's digital sales making up 18% of their total, the sheer volume of orders creates a lot of tracking complexity. This leads to 25-30% of all customer service inquiries being about order status. Knowing how to troubleshoot these issues yourself can save a ton of time. You can learn more about how online sales impact customer support with these Walmart statistics from Capital One Shopping.

The “Delivered But Not Here” Mystery

There's nothing more baffling than getting that "Delivered" notification only to find an empty porch. Don't jump to conclusions just yet—there are a handful of logical reasons why this happens.

What to Do When Your Package Goes Missing

First off, take a deep breath. Then, start with the simple stuff.

• Check Everywhere: I mean everywhere. Delivery drivers often try to tuck packages in less obvious spots to keep them safe from rain or theft. Take a good look behind bushes, by a side door, or near the garage.
• Ask Your Neighbors (and Family!): It’s amazing how often this solves the problem. A well-meaning neighbor might have grabbed it for you, or someone else in your house might have brought it inside without telling you.
• Wait It Out (Just a Bit): Sometimes, a driver scans a package as "delivered" a bit too early while they're still finishing their route. Give it a few more hours; it might just show up later in the day.
• Confirm the Shipping Address: This one is crucial. Log into your Walmart account and double-check the shipping address on your order confirmation. A tiny typo can send your package on a completely different journey.

If 24 hours have passed and there's still no sign of your package, it's time to contact Walmart Customer Service. They can work with the carrier to verify the delivery details and help you file a claim for a replacement or refund if it's truly lost.

Of course, having an invalid tracking number from the get-go is a whole different ballgame. If you're in that situation, our guide on what to do when you need to track a package without a valid number has some useful strategies.

Managing All Your Online Orders in One Place

If you shop online regularly, you know the drill. You've got a Walmart order coming via FedEx, an Amazon package with UPS, and maybe something from a smaller shop shipping through the local post office. It's a logistical juggling act, forcing you to bounce between a half-dozen browser tabs and apps just to see where everything is.

Frankly, it's a mess. Each carrier has its own website, its own quirks, and its own weird tracking terminology. This constant context-switching is more than just inefficient; it’s a source of low-key stress you just don't need. What if you could see everything in one spot?

The Power of a Unified Tracking Dashboard

This is exactly where universal package trackers make a world of difference. Instead of hunting down each order individually, these tools pull everything into a single, clean dashboard. You just plug in your tracking numbers, and the platform handles the rest, no matter who you bought from or which company is delivering it.

Let's say you have a few things on the way:

• A new coffee maker from Walmart.
• A book from a small independent bookstore.
• A gift from a friend that was sent with DHL.

Instead of hitting three different websites, you can see all three packages on one screen, maybe even on a single map, with their latest updates clearly displayed. This centralized view gives you an immediate, at-a-glance picture of what's arriving when. The whole chaotic process of tracking becomes simple and organized. For a broader look at how technology is shaping the customer experience, you can find a lot of great e-commerce insights that dig into these trends.

A centralized tracking system is basically a command center for your online shopping. It consolidates scattered information, translates confusing carrier jargon, and ultimately gives you back control and peace of mind.

How Universal Trackers Simplify the Process

A good tracking tool does more than just list your packages. The best of them, like the apps you’ll find in this best package tracking app guide, are packed with smart features designed to make life easier. For starters, they automatically detect the carrier from the tracking number, so you don't have to figure out if that Walmart package is coming via FedEx or some regional courier you've never heard of.

They also standardize the status updates. Ever seen a status like "In Transit Manifested" from one carrier and "Shipment Information Received" from another and wondered if they mean the same thing? (They often do.) A quality tracker cuts through the noise and translates these into plain English, like "Shipped" or "On its way," so you always know what's going on.

This is a lifesaver when you're dealing with international shipments or orders from Walmart Marketplace sellers who might use a wide array of couriers. A dedicated tracking tool can wrangle them all, giving you a consistent, predictable experience no matter where your package started its journey. It’s all about turning a dozen different data points into one clear story about your delivery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Walmart Tracking

Got a question about your Walmart shipment? You're not alone. Let’s go through some of the most common issues people run into when trying to track their orders. Think of this as a quick-reference guide to get you the right answer, right now.

We'll tackle everything from why your tracking number isn't working yet to the slightly different rules for Marketplace orders.

How Long Until My Walmart Tracking Number Works?

It’s that confusing moment: you get the "shipped" email, but when you click the tracking link, it says "Not Found." Don't panic—this is totally normal. It usually takes a good 24 to 48 hours for the carrier’s system to catch up after they’ve picked up the package from Walmart’s warehouse.

The tracking number gets created the moment the shipping label is printed. However, it won't actually show any movement until the package gets its first scan at a sorting facility. So, if it’s not working right away, just give it a day or two. It’ll show up.

My Personal Rule of Thumb: I never even bother checking a tracking number until at least 12 hours after I get the shipping confirmation email. This simple habit saves me from the unnecessary stress of seeing an "invalid number" error.

Can I Track a Walmart Order Using Just My Order Number?

Yes, you can, but it’s a bit limited. Your Walmart order number is your key for tracking within Walmart's own system, which is great for a quick glance.

• If you have a Walmart account: Just log in, head to your 'Purchase History,' and click on the order. You'll see Walmart's simple progress bar.
• If you checked out as a guest: Look for the 'Track Orders' link in the footer of Walmart's website. You'll need your email and the order number to pull up the status.

This method is perfect for seeing the basics, like 'Shipped' or 'Delivered.' But for the play-by-play—the detailed scans and location updates—you’ll still want to use the carrier's tracking number on their own site.

What Should I Do If My Walmart Package Is Late?

A late package is always a pain, but there’s a clear process to figure out what's going on. First, copy the tracking number and paste it directly into the carrier’s website (FedEx, UPS, USPS, etc.). They often post specific alerts for delays, like bad weather or local service disruptions, that you won't see on Walmart's site.

Next, see how the carrier's estimated delivery date compares to the one Walmart originally gave you. If the package is more than a couple of days late with no new tracking updates, it's time to take action. Your best bet is to contact Walmart customer service. If it was a Marketplace item, reach out to the third-party seller instead. They are the ones who can start an official investigation with the shipping company.

Is Tracking Different for Walmart Marketplace Orders?

It certainly can be. Since third-party sellers on the Walmart Marketplace handle their own shipping, they use a much wider range of carriers. You'll see the big names, of course, but you might also run into regional couriers or international shippers you've never heard of.

You’ll always receive a tracking number, but figuring out which website to use can sometimes feel like a mini-mystery. This is exactly where a universal tracking tool like Instant Parcels becomes so valuable. It automatically figures out the carrier for you, saving you the headache.