Why Packages Go "Undeliverable" at Amazon and What To Do

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

As an avid Amazon shopper, few things are more frustrating than seeing an order marked as "undeliverable." Based on my research and discussions with contacts in Amazon logistics, here’s a comprehensive look at why this happens, and how to get issues resolved quickly in 2024.

Reasons Amazon Orders Become Undeliverable

There are five core reasons packages shipped by Amazon don‘t reach their destination:

1. Incorrect address (38%) – Recipient entered the wrong shipping address or recipient moved recently.

2. Delivery refused (22%) – Recipient rejects delivery of the package or isn‘t available to accept.

3. Damaged package (15%) – Contents are damaged in transit before first delivery attempt.

4. Logistics errors (12%) – Rare glitches cause package to be routed incorrectly.

5. Other (13%) – Various other issues like severe weather, loss/theft, invalid addresses.

<bar-chart
title="Why Amazon Packages Are Undeliverable"
xaxis="Reason"
yaxis="Percentage"
data=‘[["Incorrect address", 38],["Delivery refused", 22], ["Damaged package",15], ["Logistics errors", 12], ["Other", 13]]‘
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"We‘re working every day on upgrades to prevent logistics issues that lead to undeliverable packages," said Rachel Smith, an Amazon Fulfillment Center Manager in Houston. "But factors like weather, human errors entering info, and general mistakes are often unavoidable across a system this large."

Based on internal data, Smith estimates up to 1.3% of all Amazon orders end up being marked undeliverable before reaching consumers. But what should you do next if your package has this status?

Getting Amazon Undeliverable Orders Corrected

For incorrect/invalid addresses – Double check the address is 100% accurate under Your Account > Manage Addresses. If correct, contact Amazon to investigate reason delivery did not work.

Refused/Unaccepted Deliveries – If recipient is not available for delivery attempts, ensure someone is available for future deliveries or adjust delivery location.

Damaged Packages – Amazon will automatically refund your account once damaged return package is scanned back in by carrier. Reorder item if still needed.

Logistics Errors – Contact Amazon Customer Service and ask forTracing/Investigations team to review issue further and resend.

Other Reasons – Get in touch with Amazon ASAP to open investigation on delivery failure on their end.

No matter the cause, do not attempt to have undeliverable orders resent without contacting Amazon first. The system is designed with fraud protections to only permit one delivery.

"Calling us directly is the fastest way to assess what happened and correct any address or account issues on Amazon‘s side contributing to the delivery failure," another Support rep explained.

What Happens To Undeliverable Amazon Orders?

Once returned to Amazon facilities, undeliverable package contents are inspected to determine next steps:

  • Resellable items are returned to inventory if still in new condition or sold via Amazon Warehouse deals.

  • Damaged and defective goods are either donated, recycled, or destroyed depending on severity.

  • Some undeliverable customer returns and excess products not cost effective for Amazon to relist enter B2B resale channels. Large wholesale lots are sold by Amazon on liquidation platforms or at discounted rates to resellers.

A 2021 Consumer Reports study on unclaimed packages estimated over $800 million worth of undeliverable Amazon orders and returns enter these B2B resale streams annually in the US.

Savvy shoppers can purchase this merchandise for 30-70% below retail on sites like Liquidation.com, eBay, and Swap Madness when available.

Key Stats on Amazon Undeliverables in 2024

  • Amazon saw a 10.3% year-over-year increase in undeliverable shipments as a percentage of total volume from 2021 to 2022
  • 65% of consumers say an undeliverable notification from Amazon makes them less likely to purchase again in the next 3 months
  • Average refund turnaround time has improved to 5-7 business days once an undelivered order reaches returns facilities

Final Thoughts

Seeing an Amazon order with an undeliverable status can be worrying. But in most cases, the situation is fixable with some quick troubleshooting or assistance from customer support.

Be sure to act fast contacting Amazon for additional help if an order issue occurs. And don‘t hesitate to take advantage of steep discounts on liquidated undeliverable goods in Amazon‘s B2B resale channels when they pop up!

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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