UPS FAQ: Third-Party Billing and Tracking Numbers

1) Why does my account number appear in the tracking number when I use third-party billing?

UPS tracking numbers always include the shipper’s account number because that account creates the label and initiates the shipment. The third-party account is used only for billing and does not affect the tracking number.

2) Does selecting Third Party change the tracking number format?

No. Selecting Third Party changes who pays for the shipment, not the tracking number. The tracking number is generated when you create the label using your account.

3) Where can I confirm who is billed after I ship?

Check Shipment History and Billing Information or your UPS.com account. The third-party details will appear there.

4) What do the bill-to codes mean?

SHP: Shipper (your account) | REC: Receiver | TP: Third Party | CB: Consignee Billed. These codes indicate who pays for transportation charges. They do not affect tracking numbers.

5) Can I bill duty and tax to a different party than transportation?

Yes. You can select different payers for transportation, duty, and tax. UPS also offers a Split Duty and Tax option for international shipments.

6) Does Consignee Billed change tracking numbers?

No. Consignee Billed is a billing option for certain accounts. It affects payment, not tracking number structure.

7) Best practices to avoid billing mistakes

Always enter and validate the third-party address and account number before processing. Verify billing details in Shipment History after shipping. For international shipments, confirm duty and tax payer selections.

8) Where can I get official UPS guidance?

Visit UPS.com Help & Support for detailed instructions on billing options and tracking number formats.

9) Quick takeaway

Tracking numbers always show the shipper’s account because that account creates the label. Third-party billing changes who pays, not the tracking number.