What Happens If I’m Not In for Amazon Delivery?

Missing an Amazon delivery can be a common concern, especially with busy schedules. If you’re not home when your Amazon package arrives, don’t worry—Amazon has several processes in place to handle such situations. Depending on the delivery method, courier, and location, the next steps can vary, and you still have options to receive your package without hassle. Let’s break down what happens when you’re not in for an Amazon delivery and how you can manage it effectively. 

Delivery Attempt and Notification

When Amazon attempts to deliver a package and you’re not available, the first thing that happens is a delivery notification. The courier will leave a delivery update on your Amazon account, typically through email, the Amazon app, or text message. You’ll also receive details on whether another delivery attempt will be made, where your package has been left, or instructions on how to retrieve it. 

For deliveries handled by Amazon Logistics, the driver may also leave a note or update with a photograph showing the delivery location if they found a safe place to leave your package. 

 

Safe Place or Alternative Drop-Off

If you’re not home, many couriers look for a safe place to leave the package. This could be a covered porch, garage, doorstep, or with a neighbor who agrees to accept it. The delivery driver may leave a note or update your tracking information to show exactly where the package is located. 

If the package is left with someone else, like a neighbor, Amazon will usually specify the recipient’s name in your delivery details. 

In cases where no safe place is found, the driver may return the package to the delivery hub for a reattempt or alternative delivery solution. 

 

Reattempted Delivery

If the package couldn’t be delivered or left safely, the courier will typically make one or two additional delivery attempts on subsequent days. Amazon will keep you updated through notifications, letting you know when the next attempt is scheduled. 

You can also check your Amazon tracking page to find out the status of the delivery attempt and confirm when the next delivery is planned. 

 

Delivery to an Amazon Hub or Locker

If repeated attempts fail or you’ve chosen an alternative delivery method, your package might be redirected to an Amazon Hub or an Amazon Locker near you. Amazon Lockers are self-service kiosks where you can collect your package at your convenience. Once delivered to a Locker, Amazon sends a unique pickup code, which you’ll need to access your package. 

Amazon Hubs, like local partner stores, function similarly but often involve assistance from staff members. This option gives you flexibility to pick up your delivery when you have time. 

 

Return to Sender

If a delivery attempt fails after multiple tries and no one claims the package from a Hub or Locker, it may be marked as undeliverable and returned to Amazon. In such cases, Amazon automatically issues a refund to your original payment method. If you still want the item, you’ll need to place a new order. 

 

How to Avoid Missing Amazon Deliveries

To ensure you don’t miss future Amazon deliveries, you can take a few proactive steps: 

Use Amazon’s delivery preferences to add special instructions, like leaving the package in a safe place or with a neighbor. 

Choose delivery options like Amazon Locker or “Pick Up Locations” during checkout. 

Opt for Amazon Key, which allows drivers to securely place packages inside your garage or home (available in select locations). 

Track your deliveries in real-time using the Amazon app and set notifications to stay informed. 

 

Missing an Amazon delivery doesn’t have to be stressful. If you’re not home, Amazon provides options like safe-place drop-offs, redelivery attempts, or alternative pickups at Amazon Lockers or Hubs. If delivery repeatedly fails, your package will return to Amazon, and you’ll receive a refund. By tracking deliveries and using Amazon’s tools, you can stay informed and ensure your orders arrive as smoothly as possible.