The Difference Between Logistics Number and Waybill Number in 1688

On 1688, orders involve two different tracking numbers that are easy to mix up — the logistics number and the waybill number. Here's what separates them.

Logistics Number

The logistics number is a unique number automatically generated by Alibaba's Cainiao Logistics system once a waybill is produced for an order. It's used specifically to identify that waybill within Alibaba's own China platform.

Waybill Number

The waybill number, by contrast, is issued by the actual logistics company once it receives the parcel for delivery. It's the number you'd use to look up shipment details directly with that carrier — and because different carriers assign their own waybill numbers independently, this number isn't guaranteed to be unique across the whole platform.

How the Waybill Number Is Generated

You don't need to create or enter this number yourself. Once your order is accepted for delivery, the logistics company automatically generates the waybill number and displays it in the system.

What to Do After Arranging Delivery

After you've contacted the logistics company and arranged delivery, click "Contact the logistics company and fill in the waybill number" on the delivery page once you receive the waybill from the carrier, then enter the name of the logistics company you're using along with the waybill number itself.

Why This Matters for Dropshippers

Knowing which number is which makes it much easier to track down a shipment when something looks off — whether you're checking status directly with Alibaba's platform or with the delivery carrier itself. ZQ Dropshipping's automated order sync keeps both identifiers attached to each order automatically, so you're not stuck cross-referencing two different tracking numbers by hand.