When an order paid with PayPal gets a tracking number, PlatformDTC now sends the tracking number and carrier to PayPal automatically, usually within about 10 minutes. It is on by default for every store with PayPal connected.
Why PayPal wants it
PayPal uses tracking to release payment holds sooner, and as proof of shipment when a buyer opens an “item not received” claim under PayPal Seller Protection.
What it covers
- Every way an order gets tracking — fulfilling a single order, bulk fulfil, CSV import, or a supplier or 3PL fulfillment.
- Checkout orders and renewals — one-time orders, and subscription renewals charged through PayPal, including billing agreements.
- The last 90 days — when first switched on, it also sends tracking for PayPal orders from the last 90 days that already have it.
- Corrections — change a tracking number and the old one is cancelled at PayPal before the new one is sent.
The right carrier
If our shipment tracking identifies the destination carrier, such as USPS, Royal Mail or Canada Post, that carrier and its own tracking number are sent too, so PayPal can verify delivery. Otherwise the carrier name you entered is sent, matched to PayPal’s own carrier list where it can be. Enter carrier names accurately when you fulfil.
What your buyer sees
No extra email from PayPal. Buyers get your store’s own shipping email, and may see the tracking in their PayPal account or app.
Where to find it
Settings → Automation → Send tracking to PayPal. View activity lists every tracking number sent, waiting, skipped or failed, with the reason, and Retry failed re-sends failures. It needs PayPal connected with your store’s live REST API credentials in Settings → Payment Provider. The full guide is in the docs.