Tracking packages from your BlackBerry Smartphone

I'm a tech geek -- I like gadgets. More often than not I find myself ordering "stuff" just for the sake of getting something new. It's pretty much always been this way and there is really no solid explanation for it, it's just how I am. It can be anything from a new phone to an accessory to a video game or what have you. Right along with that, I'm also a fan of tracking my stuff. I love to watch it move along its route and know right when it will land at my door. When I'm away from my computer that is sometimes a struggle, but thankfully there are a few ways to keep track of your stuff right from your BlackBerry. Most big name carriers provide easy to use mobile sites that you can access from your BlackBerry browser and some even have apps. You can also grab one of the many third-party apps that lets you drop in tracking numbers from multiple carriers so everything is in one spot. Keep reading for some of my favorite tracking methods.

Tracking Packages from the Browser

The easiest way to track your packages is through the BlackBerry browser. Most carriers have a mobile site that allos for easy viewing on BlackBerry where you simply enter your tracking number and you're good to go. This is a great solution for those who don't want an extra app they won't use often as there is nothing to install on the device. Some favorites include:

UPS: m.ups.com
FedEx: m.fedex.com
USPS: m.usps.com
Canda Post: canadapost.ca/cpo/mc/default.jsf?mobile=true

Other carriers like DHL and Purolator don't seem to have "streamlined" mobile sites for tracking, however with the ease of the browser on new OS 6 and OS 7 devices the full sites seem to do an ok job and are just a bit tougher to navigate. You can always check with whatever carrier you choose as most will redirect to the mobile site when using your BlackBerry browser if available. 

Carrier Mobile Apps

Plenty of carriers offer mobile apps for BlackBerry that let you track items as well as find stores, creat labels and more. These are great tools if you want to easily track packages or make use of a carriers services often.

UPS Mobile

UPS Mobile is a free download that lets you track packages, locate stores, create labels and even estimate shipping costs. It's free through BlackBerry App World.

More information/download of UPS Mobile

FedEx Mobile

FedEx Mobile lets you track packages and keep an eye on important shipments. With the mobile app you can even sync to your account at fedex.com.

More information/download of FedEx Mobile

Canada Post Corporation

The Canada Post app gives you package tracking as well as the ability to create personalize stamps, find locations and postal codes and more. 

More information/download of Canada Post Corporation

Third-Party Package Tracking Apps

Of course if you track packages quite often you may want to go with a paid, third-party app that allows you to track multiple shipments in one place. If you use any international carriers these are a great alterantive as they offer and all-in-one solution. There are plenty of these available for download and each offers the ability to save and track packages.

Package Tracking

This app gives you access to over 40 carriers including USPS, UPS, FedEx, DHL, Canda Post, Purolator and many more. For international carriers this one is a great solution. Available for $3.99 in BlackBerry App World.

More information/download of Package Tracking

Mobile Package Tracker

Mobile Package Tracker http://crackberry.com/node/162844/editnot only gives you the option to track packages, but also to name shipments,  email tracking info and more. Supports UPS, USPS, FedEx, DHL, Royal Mail, Purolator and many more. Available for $3.99 in BlackBerry App World.

More information/download of Mobile Package Tracker

Track Away!

So if you're like me and want to keep tabs on all of your traveling packages from your BlackBerry, there are plenty of great options. Casual trackers may prefer to just stick to a carriers mobile site, while others may splurge for an all-in-one tracking app. No matter which you choose you'll be able to keep up with just where your packages are at all times so no more guessing when you'll get that shiny new BlackBerry on your doorstep :-)