Discover the contrasts between Shipped & Out for Delivery, grasp tracking statuses, handle lost packages, & access detailed tracking info with eLogii.
When you're waiting for your online order, you might get a message saying "Your order has been shipped," but then you see that it won't arrive for a couple more days.
That can be confusing!
But actually, "shipped" and "out for delivery" aren't the same thing. They mean different steps in the process of getting your package to you.
Let's break it down!
"Shipped" means your order has been prepared, packed, and sent out from the seller's location or warehouse. It's on its way to you, but it could still be anywhere between where it was sent from and where it's headed.
Now, when your order is "out for delivery," it means it has already left the local distribution center or the nearest hub and is on its way to your doorstep. So it's much closer to reaching you than when it was shipped.
In simpler terms, "shipped" means it's on the move, while "out for delivery" means it's almost at your door.
Let's go into more details below.
TABLE OF CONTENTS:
Order fulfillment is a multi-step process, ensuring a customer's purchase is efficiently delivered. To fully grasp the journey of your package, it's important to understand what happens behind the scenes.
Here's a detailed look at the steps involved in order fulfillment:
Upon receiving an order, the seller must first confirm the product's availability. This might involve:
Automating this step with logistics management software can streamline the process, reduce costs, and offer customers more affordable shipping options. Namely, you can synchronize with warehouse management systems and track orders through real-time updates.
Step 2: Order Processing
Once availability is confirmed, the next phase is order processing. This includes:
With the order ready, it's time for shipment:
Finally, after the item reaches the customer, there's follow-up:
By effectively managing these steps, businesses can ensure a smooth, cost-effective order fulfillment process that enhances customer satisfaction.
You might assume your order gets shipped right after you place it, but that's not usually how it works. Shipping is usually the last step in the supply chain process for online orders.
E-commerce orders go through a lot of steps before they're shipped. Once you confirm your order, the company starts working on it. This means they pack and label the stuff you bought.
If your order isn't yet made, they will also handle making it during this process.
For maximum efficiency, businesses often utilize logistics management software. This technology automates stock verification, which not only speeds up the process but also helps reduce errors.
Once your order is all set to come to you, the seller gives it to a delivery company like USPS, DHL, or FedEx.
But sometimes, if the seller has its delivery service, as Amazon does with Amazon Logistics, they might handle it themselves.
Once the package leaves the seller's warehouse, the shipping starts.
Shipping means getting the package from where it was sent (the seller's place) to where it's going (your place).
The time it takes for shipping depends on a few things:
Express or priority shipping usually takes one to three days for delivery, while standard shipping can take anywhere from two to eight days. Keep in mind, though, that express shipping costs more.
How your package is transported can affect how long it takes to get to you. For example, if it's shipped by air, it'll probably arrive faster than if it's sent by ground.
If your package is coming from another country, it'll take longer because it has to go through customs and other processes.
Bigger or heavier items might take extra time to arrive because they need special packing and transportation.
Also, if a package requires a cold chain or temperature-controlled packaging, it could take longer to reach you.
Correct, "shipped" and "delivered" have different meanings.
When you receive a notification that your package has been shipped, it means it's on its way to you.
It's in transit between the seller's location and your final delivery address.
However, if the tracking status indicates that your package has been delivered, it means the delivery driver has successfully dropped off the package at your location, completing the delivery process.
When shipping internationally, your package must go through customs before it can enter the destination country. This mandatory step ensures that the shipment complies with the nation's regulations and that appropriate duties and taxes are applied. However, this process can sometimes lead to delays.
Key Factors Leading to Customs Delays:
1. Customs Inspection:
2. Payment of Duties and Taxes:
3. Compliance with Regulations:
Packages must comply with the destination country’s legal and regulatory requirements.
Items like electronics, pharmaceuticals, or perishables might need additional scrutiny, potentially resulting in longer clearance times.
4. Customs Clearance Fees:
In short, customs clearance can delay the delivery process due to thorough inspections, regulatory compliance checks, and the requirement to pay various fees. These steps are necessary to ensure safe and legal entry of goods but can add time to the overall delivery schedule. Ensure all paperwork is complete and accurate to minimize potential delays.
Once your order status changes to "out for delivery," it means the delivery driver is on their way to bring your package to you.
When a package is marked as "out for delivery," it indicates that it has left the last pickup point and is en route to your doorstep.
As a result, you can expect your package to arrive either later on the same day or possibly the following day.
Before the tracking status shifts to "out for delivery," it will display as "in transit." These statuses aren't identical.
However, several factors can influence the exact delivery time. While 'out for delivery' generally suggests same-day arrival, there are instances where delays can occur. These delays might result from high delivery volumes, weather conditions, or other unforeseen events. Delays can also happen due to the operational hours of the local warehouse, driver workload, signature requirements etc.
In situations where the package cannot be delivered on the same day, the driver will typically attempt to deliver it the next day. If multiple delivery attempts fail, the package may be taken back to the local post office or delivery office. In rare cases, the delivery agent might return the package to the fulfillment center.
On the other hand, "In transit" signifies that your package is journeying from one shipping point to another, often from a national shipping center to a regional one, or a regional center to a local delivery center.
When your package is out for delivery, it denotes that it has departed from the local fulfillment center and is heading to your delivery address.
When you’re waiting for a package, it helps to understand the journey it takes to reach your doorstep. The delivery process can be broken down into three major stages: receiving an order, processing that order, and fulfilling the order. Here’s a closer look at each step.
1. Receiving an Order
The first stage begins when a customer places an order. The seller must verify that the item is in stock. This often involves:
In today's fast-paced environment, many companies use logistics management software to automate this process. This not only speeds things up but also reduces shipping costs, which can result in cheaper delivery options for customers.
2. Processing an Order
Once confirmed that the item is available, the next step is to process the order. This usually involves:
At this point, tracking updates will show that the order is being processed, signaling to the customer that their purchase is moving through the system.
3. Order Fulfillment
The final stage is the fulfillment of the order, which involves several smaller steps:
Throughout this stage, tracking information is updated to reflect each step, from packing to shipping and finally to delivery.
Different shipping companies might have slightly different terminology, but the general sequence remains consistent across the industry. Understanding these stages helps you know what to expect and when to expect your package.
The 'out for delivery' phase in last mile logistics is a pivotal juncture in the supply chain. This step signifies that a package is en route to its final destination, making it the most customer-centric moment. Here's why this stage is so essential:
In summary, the 'out for delivery' step in last mile logistics is not just about getting a package to a doorstep—it’s about ensuring a seamless, reliable, and positive end-to-end delivery experience.
To ensure efficient and cost-effective deliveries that meet customer expectations, shippers can implement several strategies during the 'out for delivery' phase:
By adopting these best practices, shippers can optimize the 'out for delivery' phase, ensuring timely deliveries and customer satisfaction.
Optimize your delivery process today to enjoy lower logistics costs and happier customers.
When a package that's listed as 'out for delivery' doesn't arrive on time, it can be frustrating. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:
Taking these actions promptly can help ensure that missing packages are located as quickly as possible, preventing further delays.
When a package is marked 'out for delivery,' it can be frustrating to see it not arrive on the expected day. Several factors might cause these delays:
Proof of Delivery Requirements
Many delivery services require a signature or digital confirmation upon receipt. If no one is available to sign or provide the necessary proof, the delivery personnel might leave a notice and return the package to the local distribution center. This will usually necessitate a second attempt or require the recipient to pick up the package themselves.
Delivery Exceptions
Unexpected events, often referred to as delivery exceptions, can cause delays. Bad weather conditions, vehicle breakdowns, or other unforeseen issues may prevent the delivery team from completing their route as planned. In such cases, the package will typically be re-scheduled for delivery on the next available day.
Inaccessible Delivery Locations
Sometimes, the delivery driver may be unable to access the recipient's address. This can occur due to businesses being closed on weekends, locked gates, or even unfriendly pets like growling dogs. When access isn't possible, the driver will either attempt the delivery at a later time or leave a notice indicating the attempt was made.
Miscommunication and Human Error
Miscommunication can also result in delays:
Understanding these factors can help manage expectations and reduce the frustration that comes with delayed deliveries.
To minimize the impact of these delays, recipients can adopt certain proactive measures. By monitoring delivery status and preparing for contingencies, you can help ensure a smooth delivery process
Apart from "shipped" and "out for delivery," you might encounter various other stages in the delivery process linked to your order.
The tracking status gets refreshed every time someone scans your package.
Here's a breakdown of common tracking statuses:
When it comes to ensuring timely package deliveries, recipients can take several proactive steps. By focusing on improving delivery efficiency, you can help carriers expedite the process. Here’s how:
Following these steps can help you work more effectively with carriers, promoting smoother and faster shipping experiences.
You're excitedly anticipating your package, but the tracking status indicates "delivery not successful."
Wondering what to do if you suspect your package is lost? Here are five steps to address lost package concerns.
When a package is out for delivery, you'll likely receive updates directly from the shipping service.
Yet, with certain shipping services, you might need to visit their website or use their app and input the tracking number each time to check your delivery status.
If you're anticipating multiple deliveries from various carriers, this method might not be the most convenient for tracking all your packages.
To track a shipment that’s out for delivery, you need to work with a shipping carrier or third-party logistics provider who provides an online portal or app you can use to see status updates.
If you’re a retailer, a best practice is to work with your carrier or logistics provider to give your customers the ability to see status updates for their packages.
Unfortunately, many retailers fail to follow this practice. A survey of 500 retailers found that 61% of retailers fail to provide visibility for packages which are out for delivery. This problem can be compounded for retailers who work with third-party fleets.
eLogii has real-time driver tracking as well as automatic task status updates. These features allow for smoother deliveries and better customer experience.
With eLogii, you can keep your customers or recipients informed about their ongoing deliveries by including the tracking link of the task in your communications or by configuring their notifications.
This ensures they stay in the loop and can follow the progress of their packages effortlessly.
When a package is out for delivery, several scenarios can influence the final delivery timeline. Let’s explore what typically happens:
Successful First Attempt
Note: Sometimes the package may be left with a neighbor or receptionist if the recipient isn't available. This might not always reflect in the tracking information immediately.
Miscommunication or Errors
Failed Delivery Attempts
Depending on the courier's policy:
For example, if the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) faces a failed delivery, they typically offer another attempt or direct the recipient to the closest fulfillment center.
Sorting and Return
Delivery Errors
Each of these scenarios can impact the final delivery time and update the tracking information accordingly, except in cases where there are successful first delivery attempts or errors that prevent timely updates. Understanding these processes can better prepare recipients for possible delays and help manage expectations.
Real-time notifications play a pivotal role in improving fulfillment experiences by fostering transparency. When customers receive updates at every stage of the shipping process, they can track the progress of their orders. This transparency eases any anxiety about when a package will arrive, thereby boosting customer satisfaction.
Frequent updates about the location and status of a shipment, especially when automated through advanced delivery management software, can significantly reduce the stress associated with waiting for a package. With real-time status updates provided by softwares like eLogii, customers are informed and reassured, enhancing their overall experience and reducing the need to contact customer service for support.
Real-time notifications and automated systems, such as eLogii, enhance operational efficiency for retailers by optimizing delivery routes and keeping everyone informed. These tools allow for prompt adjustments, reducing delivery times, fuel costs, and the need for follow-up delivery attempts. For example, informing a customer of a change in delivery status increases the likelihood that someone will be available to receive the package on the first attempt.
Real-time notifications, coupled with flexible delivery options offered through automated systems, significantly improve first delivery attempt success rates. By minimizing the need for follow-up attempts, these technologies not only cut costs but also allow retailers to allocate resources more effectively, whether it's through scheduled day delivery or alternative pickup points.
Effective communication through real-time updates, enhanced by automated customer notifications, plays a crucial role in boosting customer retention rates. When customers receive proactive communication and have access to flexible delivery options, their confidence in a retailer's delivery process grows. This consistent, positive fulfillment experience fosters trust and loyalty, driving sustained business success.
Incorporating real-time notifications and leveraging advanced delivery management software into the shipping process provides a comprehensive strategy to enhance customer satisfaction and operational effectiveness. These tools optimize logistics, reduce costs, and improve delivery success rates, ultimately exceeding customer expectations and ensuring long-term business growth.
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