When shipping freight with ABF, one of the most common questions is: “What does an ABF Freight tracking number look like?” Understanding the format helps you quickly identify your shipment, avoid tracking errors, and troubleshoot issues when your tracking isn’t updating.
In this guide, we’ll break down the ABF Freight tracking number format, explain the differences between PRO numbers and Bill of Lading (BOL) numbers, and provide real-world examples you can use.
What Is an ABF Freight Tracking Number?
ABF Freight, part of ArcBest, primarily uses a PRO number as its tracking number. This number is assigned when your shipment is picked up and is used to monitor its journey from origin to destination.
Unlike small parcel carriers (like UPS or FedEx), ABF handles LTL (Less-Than-Truckload) shipments, so tracking numbers follow a slightly different structure.
ABF Freight Tracking Number Format
1. PRO Number (Primary Tracking Number)
The PRO number is the most common tracking identifier for ABF shipments.
Format:
- Typically 9 digits
- Numeric only (no letters)
Examples:
- 123456789
- 987654321
- 456789123
👉 This is the number you’ll enter on the ABF Freight tracking page.
2. Bill of Lading (BOL) Number
The Bill of Lading (BOL) is another reference number used during shipping. While not always accepted directly for tracking, it may still be searchable in some systems.
Format:
- Can be alphanumeric
- Length varies (usually 6–12 characters)
Examples:
- BOL123456
- ABF789012
- 2024SHIP001
👉 If your PRO number isn’t available yet, try using the BOL number.
3. Pickup Number or Reference Number
ABF also allows tracking using reference numbers, which are assigned by the shipper.
Format:
- Flexible (letters + numbers)
- Defined by the shipper or customer
Examples:
- REF20250420
- ORDER78945
- INV-556677
👉 Useful for businesses managing multiple shipments.
How to Identify Your ABF Tracking Number
If you’re unsure which number to use, follow these quick tips:
- Check your shipping confirmation email → Look for “PRO Number”
- Review your invoice or receipt → Often lists both PRO and BOL
- Ask the shipper → They can confirm the correct tracking ID
💡 Pro tip: If the number is exactly 9 digits, it’s almost certainly a PRO number.
Where to Enter Your Tracking Number
You can track your shipment directly on the ABF Freight website or through third-party ABF tracking tools like Express Tracking.
Steps:
- Go to the tracking page
- Enter your PRO number
- Click “Track”
- View shipment status and updates
Common Tracking Issues (And Fixes)
1. Tracking Number Not Found
- The shipment may not be scanned yet
- Wait a few hours after pickup
2. Using the Wrong Number Format
- Double-check if you’re entering a PRO number vs. BOL
- Remove spaces or special characters
3. Tracking Not Updating
- LTL shipments update less frequently than parcel shipments
- Delays of 12–24 hours are normal
ABF Freight Tracking Number vs Other Carriers
| Carrier | Format Type | Length |
|---|---|---|
| ABF Freight | Numeric (PRO) | 9 digits |
| FedEx Freight | Numeric | 9–12 digits |
| UPS Freight (TForce) | Alphanumeric | 9–12 chars |
👉 ABF’s format is simpler but requires knowing the correct number type.
FAQs About ABF Tracking Numbers
Is the PRO number the same as the tracking number?
Can I track using a BOL number?
How long does it take for tracking to appear?
Final Thoughts
Understanding the ABF Freight tracking number format makes it much easier to track your shipment accurately. In most cases, you’ll only need the 9-digit PRO number, but having access to your BOL or reference number can be helpful in certain situations.
If your tracking isn’t working, double-check the format and give the system a little time to update—LTL freight tracking works differently from standard parcel services.