Failed Delivery Attempts

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