Shipped vs. Out for Delivery: What's the Difference? (2024)

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:

• What is Involved in Order Fulfillment?
• Understanding "Shipped" Status
• What Does "Out for Delivery" Mean?
• Common Tracking Terms for Package Delivery
• Dealing with a Lost Package
• Ways to Get Detailed Tracking Information
• How Can Real-Time Notifications Improve Fulfillment Experiences?

What is Involved in Order Fulfillment?

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:

Step 1: Inventory Check

Upon receiving an order, the seller must first confirm the product's availability. This might involve:

• Warehouse Inspection: Physically verifying stock.
• Supplier Contact: Coordinating with manufacturers or partners.
• Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Coordination: Ensuring partners managing direct-to-consumer deliveries have the item.

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:

• Order Confirmation: Validating the customer's details and payment.
• Picking and Packing: Selecting the item from inventory and preparing it for shipment.
• Labeling: Printing and attaching shipping labels.

Step 3: Shipping and Delivery

With the order ready, it's time for shipment:

• Carrier Selection: Choosing the best shipping service (e.g., UPS, FedEx).
• Shipping: Dispatching the item based on the selected delivery method.
• Tracking: Providing the customer with tracking information.

Step 4: Post-Delivery Service

Finally, after the item reaches the customer, there's follow-up:

• Customer Feedback: Gathering reviews or ratings.
• Returns Handling: Managing any returns or exchanges efficiently.
• Support: Offering assistance for any customer inquiries or issues.

By effectively managing these steps, businesses can ensure a smooth, cost-effective order fulfillment process that enhances customer satisfaction.

Understanding "Shipped" Status

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:

• The type of shipping you picked
• How far you are from the seller
• Where you live
• The weather
• What's in the package
• How big the package is

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.

Is "Shipped" the Same as "Delivered"?

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.

How Can Customs Clearance Delay the Delivery Process?

• Each package undergoes an inspection by a customs agent.
• The agent verifies the accompanying paperwork and assesses import duties and taxes.
• Any issues or discrepancies in the documentation can result in delays.

2. Payment of Duties and Taxes:

• The recipient or the sender must pay the calculated duties and taxes.
• Delays occur if there are any hiccups in payment processing or if additional fees are required.

4. Customs Clearance Fees:

• Apart from duties and taxes, a customs clearance fee is often charged to cover the inspection costs.
• Delay in payment of this fee can prevent the package from moving forward in the delivery chain.

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.

What Does "Out for Delivery" Mean?

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.

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.

Understanding the Three Major Stages of the Delivery Process

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:

• Checking inventory in a warehouse.
• Contacting manufacturers or suppliers.
• Coordinating with third-party logistics providers, such as FedEx or UPS.

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:

• Verifying the buyer's contact information.
  
• Double-checking payment details.
  
• Generating tracking information.

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:

1. Packing: The seller packs the item securely for shipment.
   
2. Shipping: The shipping company takes over, ensuring the package is transported to the right location.
   
3. Delivery: A driver delivers the package to the customer’s doorstep.

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 Crucial Role of the 'Out for Delivery' Step in Last Mile Logistics

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:

1. Customer Satisfaction: This is the point where customer anticipation peaks. Accurate and timely deliveries can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.
2. Real-time Tracking: During this stage, real-time updates and tracking information become incredibly valuable. Services like UPS and FedEx provide customers with precise delivery windows, adding transparency and trust.
3. Efficiency and Cost Management: Efficient management of the 'out for delivery' process can lead to significant cost savings. Optimizing delivery routes reduces fuel consumption and labor costs, crucial for carriers like DHL and Amazon.
4. Problem Resolution: This step is also when issues such as traffic delays or incorrect addresses come to the forefront. Proactive communication from delivery services can mitigate these problems before they escalate.

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.

How Can Shippers Optimize the Delivery Process During the 'Out for Delivery' Phase?

To ensure efficient and cost-effective deliveries that meet customer expectations, shippers can implement several strategies during the 'out for delivery' phase:

• Leverage Advanced Technology: Utilize cloud-based delivery and fulfillment software to streamline logistics. These platforms offer real-time tracking, allowing both shippers and customers to monitor the delivery status. For example, tools like eLogii offer sophisticated solutions to boost efficiency.
• Proactive Communication: Send regular updates and delivery notifications to customers. Keeping them informed via SMS notifications, email alerts, and even app-based push notifications reduces the likelihood of customer service inquiries, thereby lightening the support load.
• Flexible Delivery Options: Offer a variety of delivery choices to accommodate customer preferences and schedules. Options might include standard, expedited, and time-specific deliveries. This flexibility can significantly enhance first-time delivery success rates.
• Performance Tracking and Feedback: Consistently monitor delivery performance using metrics such as on-time delivery rates and customer satisfaction scores and adapt procedures based on customer feedback. Adjust procedures based on this data to continually refine and enhance your delivery process. This dynamic approach helps refine the delivery process over time.

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.

What to Do When Your Package Misses Its Scheduled Delivery Date

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:

1. Verify the Shipping Address
   Double-check your order details to ensure the shipping address was entered correctly. Even a small mistake in the address can cause a delay.
2. Check the Tracking Status
   Inspect the tracking information to see if it indicates a failed delivery attempt. Sometimes, carriers may have attempted delivery but couldn't complete it for various reasons. So, if it indicates a failed delivery attempt, there might be additional instructions or a rescheduled delivery date.
3. Inspect Mail and Alternate Delivery Locations
   See if the package was delivered with your regular mail or to an alternate pick-up location. Some carriers may use different partners for the final delivery.
4. Ask Neighbors or Office Managers
   If you live in a residential area, check with neighbors to see if they received your package by mistake. In business settings, consult the office manager or mailroom.
5. Still Missing? Contact Customer Service
   If these steps don’t resolve the issue, reach out to customer service for further assistance. They can provide specific details on the whereabouts of your package. Companies like UPS, FedEx, and USPS provide support to help locate your missing package.

Taking these actions promptly can help ensure that missing packages are located as quickly as possible, preventing further delays.

Factors That Can Delay Delivery After 'Out for Delivery' Status

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:

• Wrong Truck Loading: The package could be mistakenly loaded onto the wrong delivery vehicle, leading to delays as it gets rerouted correctly.
• Tracking System Errors: Incorrect tracking numbers or data entry mistakes can send misleading information to customers, making it appear as though the package is en route when it isn't.
• Delivery Scanning Issues: Sometimes, drivers might fail to scan the package upon delivery or record it as delivered without actually doing so. In some instances, the package may be left with a neighbor or delivered to the wrong address entirely.

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

Common Tracking Terms for Package Delivery

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:

• Accepted by carrier. This status means the shipper has given your package to the delivery company to start the delivery process.
• Arrived at regional carrier facility. When you see this, it means your package has reached the main regional facility before moving on to your local one.
• Arrived at local carrier facility or post office. Your package is now at a local distribution center or post office close to you, getting ready for delivery.
• In-transit. This status means your package is on the move, either between different shipping centers or from the local warehouse to your place.
• Out for delivery. This is the final step! It means a delivery person has your package and is bringing it to your door.
• Delivered. When your package is dropped off and confirmed, the status changes to "Delivered," meaning the delivery is complete.

How Can Recipients Expedite the Delivery Process?

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:

1. Monitor Delivery Status: Utilize tracking software from shippers like FedEx, UPS, or DHL. These tools offer real-time updates on your package's journey, allowing you to prepare for its arrival.
2. Be Ready for Signatures and Fees: Plan to be available at your address to sign for the package, if required. Additionally, make sure you have any necessary fees ready, which can streamline the handover process.
3. Prearrange Redelivery or Pickup: Life can be unpredictable. If you miss a delivery attempt, immediately arrange for a second attempt or opt to pick up the package at a nearby collection point. This way, your parcel won’t get stuck in a delivery limbo.
4. Allow Wiggle Room for Delivery Times: Understand that unexpected events can cause minor delays. If your package status changes to "out for delivery", give it up to 48 hours to accommodate any issues that may arise.

Following these steps can help you work more effectively with carriers, promoting smoother and faster shipping experiences.

Dealing with a Lost Package

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.

1. Check for Attempted Delivery. Most delivery services will leave a notice or notify you via text or email if a delivery is unsuccessful. If you suspect your package is lost, check the tracking status to see if a delivery attempt was made.
2. Verify Acceptance. Sometimes, someone else may have accepted the package on your behalf without informing you. If the tracking status indicates delivery, inquire if someone else received it for you.
3. Check with Neighbors. Delivery mistakes can happen, so ask your neighbors if the package was mistakenly delivered to them.
4. Contact the Delivery Company. If the above steps don't resolve the issue and your package is still missing, reach out to the delivery company. Provide them with a detailed explanation via email or phone. There might be an error in the tracking status or the package could be held up at their facility.
5. Reach Out to the Seller. If the delivery company can't assist you, contact the seller next. They initiated the shipping process and may have more insight. They could have made an error with your address or chosen a different shipping method than you selected. The seller can offer a refund or arrange for another shipment.

Ways to Get Detailed Tracking Information

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.

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.

Common Scenarios During Last Mile Order Fulfillment

When a package is out for delivery, several scenarios can influence the final delivery timeline. Let’s explore what typically happens:

Successful First Attempt

• Package Delivered Successfully: The delivery agent drops off the package and scans it, updating the system to notify the shipper and recipient of the successful delivery.

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

• Tracking Not Updated: Occasionally, the driver may neglect to scan the package upon delivery, leaving the status as 'out for delivery' even though the item has been dropped off.

Failed Delivery Attempts

• Initial Attempt Unsuccessful: There are various reasons why a first delivery attempt may fail, including poor weather, restricted access to a commercial residence on non-business days, or the inability to obtain a required signature or fee.

Depending on the courier's policy:

1. Automatic Reattempt: Some companies will automatically try to deliver again.
2. Rescheduling Option: The recipient may receive a note allowing them to reschedule or providing instructions for picking up the package from a designated location.

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

• Multiple Unsuccessful Attempts: If no delivery is successful after a set number of tries, the package usually gets returned to the sender. The exact number of attempts and wait times before returning a package can vary by carrier.

Delivery Errors

• Wrong Truck Scenario: Sometimes, packages get mistakenly loaded onto the wrong truck or the status isn't updated correctly. This error can cause delays, showing incorrect ETAs in the tracking information.

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.

How Can Real-Time Notifications Improve Fulfillment Experiences?

Enhancing Customer Transparency

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.

Reducing Delivery Anxiety

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.

Increasing Efficiency

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.

Cutting Costs

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.

Improving Customer Retention

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.

Summary

• Transparency: Keeps customers informed at every stage
• Anxiety Reduction: Alleviates stress associated with waiting
• Efficiency: Enhances operational adjustments and success rates
• Cost Savings: Reduces follow-up delivery attempts
• Customer Retention: Builds trust and loyalty through reliable fulfillment

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.