Docket Number

A docket number is the unique identifier a courier, express or parcel operator puts on a shipment so it can be tracked through the network. It plays the same role as an LR number in full-truckload freight, but at package level rather than vehicle level.

The distinction matters operationally. One truckload moves under one LR; one courier vehicle may carry several hundred dockets, each with its own origin, destination and delivery commitment. Scanning is therefore docket-level: every hub scan-in, scan-out, bag and delivery attempt is recorded against the docket.

Customers almost always know their docket number and nothing else, which makes it the primary search key for any customer-facing tracking page. A system that can only look up by order ID will generate support calls.