In eCommerce shipping, every order involves three key elements: Order ID, Order Number and Shipper Reference. These terms can often be confusing, as they may appear to mean the same thing. This document aims to clarify when and how to use each of these items:
Order Number: Is generally a number for the order but is not a required field. This number is less likely to be globally unique, but it is still be unique for that store. The number is typically shown in the invoice or receipt copy that the recipient of the shipment would receive. The Order # is displayed on the packing slip and the order summary.
Order ID: Is required for any shipment created using a shopping cart, marketplace or when uploading a CSV. The Order ID is always unique – meaning it’s different for each order. Sometimes this ID is the same as the order number or it can be a different, longer, random number. The Order ID is displayed on the order details page.
Shipper Reference: Is what a shipper uses to identify the shipment. This reference is also not a required field, but (if desired) it can be made a required field for all users. The Reference field is found at the top of the Ship page above the Receiver Address info.
Tip: Look on the History/Track page to find the Order ID, Order Number and Reference (if used) within each shipment.