Waiting for international shipments can be stressful, but with the right tools, you can transform from passive observer to active manager of your cargo's journey. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to track ONE Shipping Line containers and access vessel schedules with ease.
1. Primary Method: Official ONE Shipping Line Tracking (Recommended)
Step 1: Access the Tracking Portal
Navigate to the Ocean Network Express official website and locate either the "Cargo Tracking" option in the top navigation bar or the prominent "Track & Trace" shortcut on the homepage.
Step 2: Required Tracking Information
You only need one of these identifiers (available on your bill of lading, booking confirmation, or from your freight forwarder):
- Bill of Lading Number (B/L) : The shipment's unique identifier, typically beginning with "ONE" (e.g., ONE1234567890), consisting of 10-12 alphanumeric characters (note: distinguish between letter O and number 0).
- Container Number : The 11-digit code (4 letters + 7 numbers) assigned to each container, beginning with ONE prefixes like ONEU, OOLU, or HLXU (e.g., ONEU1234567).
- Booking Reference : The unique reservation code provided during booking (e.g., BKG12345678).
Step 3: Tracking Process
- Enter your chosen identifier in the search field (enter complete code without spaces).
- Click "Search" to initiate tracking.
- The system displays real-time shipment status including departure/arrival times, loading/unloading events, and estimated time of arrival (ETA). Completed milestones appear with timestamps (e.g., "Departure from Shanghai" or "Arrival at Los Angeles").
2. Understanding Key Terms
- Bill of Lading (B/L) : The legal document establishing cargo ownership, issued by the carrier with the format "ONE" followed by numbers.
- Container Number : The unique 11-character code physically marked on containers and documented in shipping paperwork.
- Booking Reference : The reservation number linking all shipment details in the carrier's system.
3. Alternative Tracking Methods
While the official website provides the most accurate data, third-party logistics platforms may serve as temporary alternatives during system maintenance. However, these platforms often have data delays and should only be used for preliminary checks.
4. Troubleshooting Common Issues
No Results Found
- Verify identifier accuracy, particularly similar characters (O/0, I/1).
- Allow 1-2 business days for system updates if the shipment is newly booked.
- Refresh the page or try again later during peak update cycles (data refreshes every 4-6 hours).
5. Vessel Schedule Information
To research sailing schedules between ports (e.g., Shanghai to Los Angeles):
- Navigate to "Transport Services" then "Vessel Schedules" on the website.
- Input origin/destination ports and optional departure date range.
- View results showing vessel names, voyage numbers, ETD/ETA, and any transshipment points.
6. Status Terminology
- Departure from [Port] : Vessel has left the origin port.
- Arrival at [Port] : Vessel has reached the destination port.
- Loaded on Vessel : Container successfully boarded the ship.
- Discharged from Vessel : Container unloaded and awaiting next steps.
- Container Released : Cleared for pickup by consignee.
For optimal security, always use official channels when entering sensitive shipping information. Regular tracking updates combined with schedule research provide comprehensive visibility for supply chain management.