Overview
A failed delivery attempt means the carrier tried to deliver the package but was unsuccessful.
In most cases, the carrier will attempt delivery again or redirect the package to a pickup location.
How to Identify This Issue
Tracking may show statuses such as:
- “Delivery Attempted”
- “Delivery Exception”
- “Customer Not Available”
- “Business Closed”
- “No Access to Delivery Location”
Why This Happens
Common reasons for failed delivery:
- Recipient not home or unavailable
- Business closed at time of delivery
- Gated or restricted access (no code, no entry)
- Missing apartment, suite, or unit number
- Carrier unable to safely leave the package
What To Do
1. Notify Your Customer
Your customer should:
- Monitor tracking closely
- Be available for the next delivery attempt
- Provide any missing delivery details
2. Provide Additional Delivery Instructions (If Needed)
If the issue was access-related, ensure the carrier has:
- Gate codes or entry instructions
- Apartment / suite number
- Business name
- Phone number
3. Watch for the Next Step
After a failed attempt, carriers typically:
- Retry delivery (usually 1–2 more attempts), or
- Hold the package for pickup
👉 The next step will typically be shown in tracking details
Important: Timing Matters
- Carriers only attempt delivery a limited number of times
- After final attempt:
- The package may be held for pickup, or
- Returned to sender
If tracking shows “Final Attempt” or “Final Notice”, action is required immediately.
Carrier-Specific Behavior
USPS
- Typically makes 1–2 delivery attempts
- Leaves a notice (PS Form 3849) if unsuccessful
- May:
- Hold at local post office, or
- Return to sender if not claimed
UPS
- Typically makes up to 3 delivery attempts
- After final attempt:
- Redirects to UPS Access Point or
- Returns to sender
- May allow:
- Delivery rescheduling
- Hold for pickup
FedEx
- Typically makes up to 3 delivery attempts
- After final attempt:
- Holds at a FedEx location, or
- Returns to sender
- Recipient may:
- Request redelivery
- Hold at location
What Happens If It’s Not Resolved
If delivery continues to fail:
- The shipment may be:
- Held for pickup, or
- Returned to sender
If Returned
- Inventory will be returned to stock upon receipt
- The order may require reshipment or refund
- Handled will apply standard return-to-stock fees
Best Practices
- Collect complete addresses, including unit numbers
- Require customer phone numbers
- Set clear delivery expectations with customers
- Monitor tracking for early signs of delivery issues
When to Contact Handled
Reach out to support@handledcommerce.com if:
- You need help interpreting delivery exceptions
- A shipment is approaching final delivery attempt
- The package is being returned to sender
Key Takeaways
- Failed delivery ≠ failed shipment (yet)
- Carriers will usually retry or hold for pickup
- Fast communication with your customer is critical
- If unresolved, the package will be returned and fees will apply