In the vast and treacherous world of Death Stranding, delivering cargo is your primary mission. Whether you’re reconnecting isolated cities or hauling crucial supplies, knowing where each order is headed and how to track its progress is essential for efficient delivery. This guide covers everything you need to know about tracking your orders, from the basic map interface to advanced cargo management techniques.
As Sam Porter Bridges, you’ll take on dozens of orders simultaneously, each with different destinations and requirements. Mastering the art of order tracking will save you time, protect your cargo, and improve your standing with various facilities. Let’s dive into the tools and strategies that keep your deliveries on track.
Using the Map to Track Orders
Your primary tool for tracking orders is the in-game map. Accessible via the cuff link menu, the map displays your current location, all active orders, and their destinations. Each order appears as a colored waypoint, with the color corresponding to the urgency or type of delivery. For example, main story orders often appear as golden icons, while standard orders use blue or other colors. You can place a pin on any destination to set a custom navigation route, and the game will display the most efficient path, taking terrain and weather into account.
To closely monitor a specific order, open the Orders menu from the cuff link and select the order you want to track. The map will highlight its precise destination and show your current distance. You can also toggle between orders if you’re carrying multiple, ensuring you never lose sight of your priorities. The route planner also indicates potential hazards, such as BTs, Timefall, or steep terrain, helping you adjust your path before setting out.
Understanding Delivery Waypoints
Delivery waypoints are dynamic. They change in real time as you move, and the map updates continuously. If an order has a time limit, the waypoint might blink red to indicate urgency. Additionally, bridges, ladders, and other structures placed by you or other players appear on the map, which can be used to refine your route. You can also view the map in a 3D topographical mode to assess elevation changes, crucial when hauling heavy cargo.
Order Status and Details
Every order you accept has detailed information available in the Orders screen. Here you can see the destination facility, cargo weight, condition requirements, and special instructions. The status shows whether the order is in progress, delivered, or partially damaged. By keeping an eye on cargo condition, you can decide whether to prioritize repair sprays or take a less hazardous route. The order description often includes the sender’s name and any lore-related notes, but for tracking purposes, focus on the destination and any constraints.
If an order is lost or destroyed, the status will reflect that, and you’ll have the option to redeploy the cargo later. Some orders are unique to specific preppers and cannot be repeated, so tracking them carefully is important for 100% completion.
Multiple Orders at Once
Carrying multiple orders simultaneously is an efficient way to maximize your deliveries. When you accept several orders, they all appear on your map and in your order list. You can sort them by destination, distance, or deadline to plan an optimal route. The game allows you to set a primary order that will be highlighted more prominently on the map, but you can easily switch focus. The compass at the top of the screen also indicates nearby order destinations, making it easy to track them even without opening the full map.
Cargo Management and Tracking
Physical cargo management ties directly into order tracking. Each order consists of one or more packages that you attach to your suit, backpack, or vehicles. The cargo menu shows each package’s destination and condition. If a package becomes damaged or detached, it can be lost in the environment. Lost cargo appears as a glowing icon on the map, allowing you to retrieve it if you act quickly. This feature works for both your own orders and those of other players you might find in the world.
When you hold a package in your hands, you can scan it with the Odradek to instantly see its destination tag. This is a quick way to verify you haven’t mixed up packages when near a delivery terminal. Additionally, if you entrust cargo to a partner porter or a shared locker, you can track its delivery status back at any terminal.
Vehicle Handling and Delivery
Vehicles like the Reverse Trike and trucks significantly expand cargo capacity. However, tracking orders while driving works differently. The map can be minimized to a corner display, and delivery waypoints integrate into the vehicle’s HUD. Be mindful that off-road travel can damage cargo quickly, so always check the route for smooth terrain. If a vehicle is destroyed, all cargo is ejected and becomes retrievable lost cargo. The map will immediately update with the locations of these items, so you can collect them and continue your delivery.
Tips for Efficient Delivery Tracking
- Plan your route before leaving: Spend time studying the map for Timefall areas, BT zones, and potential shortcuts. A well-planned route reduces the need for mid-journey adjustments.
- Use the compass: The compass around Sam shows waypoints for active orders, keeping you oriented without constantly opening the map.
- Prioritize time-sensitive orders: Orders with a timer appear with a distinct icon and flash when low on time. Always handle these first to avoid failure.
- Repair vehicles and cargo: Regularly use repair stations or sprays to maintain condition, as damaged cargo can affect delivery ratings and even fail orders.
- Build infrastructure: Constructing roads, zip-lines, and bridges not only speeds up travel but also permanently marks your map with useful routes. These structures can be tracked via the map as well.
- Check for lost cargo: The map shows icons for any lost cargo, including yours. Retrieving and delivering it to the correct facility can earn extra rewards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I track where my orders are going in Death Stranding?
Yes, you can track all your active orders through the map and Orders menu. The map displays waypoints for each order’s destination, and you can select a specific order to highlight its path. The compass and the Odradek scanner also help you track cargo in real time.
What happens if I lose track of my cargo?
If cargo is dropped or lost, it appears as a glowing icon on the map, labeled as lost cargo. You can retrieve it by walking over it. If you cannot find it immediately, the icon persists until you leave the area or cancel the order. Lost cargo can also be entrusted at any facility if you don’t want to complete the delivery yourself.
How do I see all orders I’ve accepted?
Open the cuff link menu and select “Orders.” This lists every active order with their current status, destination, cargo details, and deadline. You can scroll through, select one, and choose to track it or cancel it. The map also shows all order waypoints when no specific order is highlighted.
Can I track orders entrusted to other players?
No, you cannot track orders that you’ve entrusted to other players or postboxes. However, if you entrust cargo to a partner porter or a shared locker, you can monitor the delivery progress from a terminal by checking the delivery history. In general, once cargo leaves your hands, you’re no longer responsible for its tracking.
Do different order types affect tracking?
Yes. Main story orders, known as “Orders for Sam,” often have unique icons and are critical for progression. Standard orders may have deadlines that add urgency indicators. Fragile or high-value cargo may require more careful route planning, so their waypoints might be color-coded differently during planning.
