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The Parcel Tracking API allows you to register and monitor parcels in Sendcloud, even if they were not shipped via Sendcloud. By registering external parcels, you can retrieve their tracking timeline and integrate Sendcloud’s monitoring, analytics, and post-purchase visibility into your own systems. This API provides two core capabilities:
  • Register a parcel for tracking
  • Retrieve a complete timeline of tracking events
Note: This guide covers our latest version, Parcel Tracking API v3. For full endpoint and schema documentation, see the API reference.

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When to use the Parcel Tracking API

Use the Parcel Tracking API when you want to:
  • Display tracking information to customers.
  • Monitor externally shipped parcels and/or internal shipments in back-office dashboards.
  • Automate post-purchase support workflows.
  • Analyze shipping performance, delivery timelines, and trends.
Typical implementation scenarios include:
  • Tracking parcels fulfilled outside Sendcloud.
  • Consolidating tracking visibility across multiple logistics providers.
  • Building custom tracking portals or support tools.
Note: High-frequency polling is discouraged. Webhook support for tracking-only parcels is not yet available.

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How it fits into the Sendcloud workflow

The Parcel Tracking API operates after shipment creation. Typical flow:
  • A parcel is shipped outside Sendcloud.
  • You register the parcel via the Parcel Tracking API.
  • Sendcloud begins monitoring tracking events.
  • You retrieve the tracking timeline via the API.
  • Tracking data is integrated into customer-facing portals, internal dashboards, or post-purchase workflows.
Note: Tracking webhooks do not currently fire for parcels created via this API. Webhook support will be added in a future release.

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Key concepts

ConceptDefinition
Parcel Tracking objectRepresents a single parcel being tracked in Sendcloud. It is independent of Sendcloud shipments, meaning no shipment or label needs to exist in Sendcloud and no carrier announcement is triggered. This allows externally shipped parcels to be registered and monitored without using the Shipments API.
Tracking EventsThe Retrieve tracking information endpoint returns a timeline of parcel events. The timeline contains both historical and near-real-time updates. You can determine the parcel’s current status by inspecting the most recent event. The event types that can be shown include:
Internal (Sendcloud) eventsUpdates generated by Sendcloud for parcels announced via Sendcloud.
Carrier tracking eventsStatus updates received directly from the carrier reflecting the parcel’s physical journey.