How do I know the container belongs to Maersk?
A container number is 4 letters and 7 digits, like MAEU 123456 7. The 4 letters are the owner code, and Maersk containers usually start with:
MAEUMSKUMRKUMRSUMNBUMaersk bills of lading usually start with digits only, or starting with MAEU.
Where do I find the number?
The container number is on the bill of lading and the shipping advice from your supplier or forwarder, and on the container door itself. For a consolidated (LCL) shipment, ask the consolidator for the container number or the master bill of lading, because house bills cannot be tracked with the carrier.
Tired of checking every day?
Big Chains tracks your containers with Maersk and 200+ other carriers, without visiting any website:
- All your sea and air shipments on one screen.
- Alerts when the arrival date changes.
- Your customer gets every update by email in your company's name.
- Your customs broker or warehouse is notified before arrival.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a container take from China to Jeddah with Maersk?
It depends on the loading port, the service and transshipment ports, usually 4 to 6 weeks. The tracking page shows the latest arrival date, which changes if the vessel is delayed.
What is the difference between a container number and a B/L number?
The container number identifies the container (4 letters and 7 digits). The bill of lading covers the whole shipment and can include several containers. Both work for tracking.
Why doesn't my number show on the Maersk website?
Usually the shipment is new and not yet registered with the carrier, or a letter or digit is wrong. Check the number with your supplier and try again the next day.
Other carriers
Maersk is a trademark of its owner. Big Chains is an independent platform and is not affiliated with Maersk.