Track and trace

Track a shipment

One box for every major shipping line. Enter a bill of lading, booking, container or air waybill number and we will work out who issued it.

Bill of lading, container or air waybill

Scapex reads the reference format and the carrier prefix, validates the check digit where the format has one, and takes you to that carrier’s own live tracking page. Nothing is stored and nothing is sent anywhere.

Spaces and dashes are ignored. Container numbers are checked against the ISO 6346 check digit; air waybills against the IATA modulus-7 rule.

Vessel tracking

Where is the ship, and when will it berth? Enter the vessel name or its seven-digit IMO number for live position, port calls and estimated arrival.

Questions we get asked

Tracking, explained

How do I track a bill of lading?

Enter the bill of lading number in the search box. Scapex identifies the shipping line from the prefix and opens that carrier’s own live tracking for the reference. Bill of lading numbers usually begin with the line’s four-letter SCAC code, for example MAEU for Maersk or MEDU for MSC.

What is the difference between a container number and a bill of lading number?

A container number identifies one physical box and follows the ISO 6346 format of four letters and seven digits, the last being a check digit. A bill of lading number identifies the contract of carriage and may cover several containers. Both can be tracked here.

Can I track a shipment without knowing the carrier?

Yes. Enter the reference and the tool works out which line issued it from the prefix. If the prefix is not recognised, every major line is listed so you can go straight to the right one.

How do I track a vessel?

Enter the vessel name or its seven-digit IMO number in the vessel section. You will be taken to live AIS position, port calls and estimated arrival on the public tracking services.

How do I track an air waybill?

Enter the eleven-digit air waybill number, with or without the dash. The first three digits identify the airline and the tool opens that airline’s cargo tracking.

Ready when you are

Send us a lane and roughly what is moving. You will have a firm all-in figure inside a working day.