Gmail’s package tracking feature automatically detects tracking numbers in your delivery or order confirmation emails and shows shipment status right inside your inbox or at the top of the message. This saves you from having to copy/paste tracking numbers into carrier websites or separate apps.
When enabled, Gmail can show delivery details like “in transit,” estimated arrival date, and even delay notifications right in your email list or the message itself.

The feature works mainly in the Gmail mobile app (Android/iOS) but Gmail is also gradually bringing similar tracking views to the web and a dedicated Purchases tab for easy organization.

🔧 How to Turn On Package Tracking in the Gmail App

You need to enable Smart features & personalization first in Gmail for this option to appear.

📱 On Android

Open the Gmail app on your phone.

Tap the ☰ Menu icon in the top‑left corner.

Go to Settings.

Choose the email account you want to enable tracking for.

Scroll down to General → Package tracking.

Check the box next to it to turn the feature on.

👉 Once enabled, Gmail will start showing delivery statuses directly in your inbox and within package‑related emails.

📱 On iphone / iPad

Open the Gmail app and tap the ☰ Menu.

Go to Settings → your email account.

Scroll to find Package tracking (or Data privacy on iOS).

Toggle it on.

🖥️ Gmail Web & “Purchases” Tab (Newer Update)

Google is rolling out a new “Purchases” tab in Gmail (mobile and web) that puts all order confirmations and package delivery emails in one place for easier tracking.
This tab shows items arriving soon, shipment updates, and order history — so you don’t have to hunt through your inbox.

📌 How Delivery Updates Appear

✔ Inbox summary: You may see delivery status below the subject line — like “Arrives Tomorrow” or “Delivered.”
✔ Inside emails: Opening a shipping email can show a tracking summary card at the top of the message with expected delivery date and current status.
✔ Dedicated view: The new Purchases tab groups all order and delivery emails for quick browsing (rolling out globally).

🛠️ Helpful Tips

🟢 Enable for each Gmail account: If you use multiple addresses, enable package tracking separately for each one.
🟢 Keep Smart features on: If you turn off smart features in Gmail, package tracking may stop working.
🟢 Delivery alerts: Gmail can also highlight delayed packages and prioritize them at the top of your inbox with special labels.

📌 Summary

Turning on package tracking in Gmail lets you:

• Track delivery status directly in your inbox
• See estimated delivery dates and progress
• Use the Purchases tab for a central view of orders
• Avoid manual tracking or third‑party tools

Just enable it in your Gmail app settings, and Gmail will do the rest — making it far easier to stay on top of every shipment and avoid missed deliveries! 📬

 

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