My shipment to the buyer is undeliverable & stuck with USPS

[katsura5]

The original Virginia address had a forwarding request, but had expired. USPS tracking notes said it would be returned to sender, but that didn't happen. The customer said via a message he still wants it, but it needs to go to Colorado. I told him he needs to work with USPS to make that happen, since it's in USPS possession. The package has been crossing the US 5 times (I'm on the west coast) & the customer isn't very responsive to my messages for him to talk to USPS. It now seems to be stuck "moving through network", since 9/30/24. It's only a 19.50 item and was paid for. I don't like it sitting on my record as shipped but not delivered. Ideas?

[wastingtime101 · Accepted solution]

If the buyer files a non-receipt claim, you'll be covered since the buyer provided an invalid address.

Actually, buyer has passed the MBG window so their only recourse would be to file a payment dispute with their credit card.

You've already advised the buyer to file an inquiry with USPS so at this point I wouldn't worry about it unless the package finds its way back to you or unless the buyer files a claim. If you need help with that come back and let us know.

It's not going to harm your account for a package to say shipped, but not delivered. I see it all the time when packages never get a final delivery scan. I just ignore it unless the buyer raises an issue.

[12345jamesstamps]

I have a lot not closed but received like this. Lucky these were honest buyers.

Returns are returns...Not sure what you mailed or how it was mailed but I get back a few returns every months.

[katsura5]

Thank you. Good to know that my account won't be negatively affected. The ball is in my customer's court and he decided not to do anything about it.

[katsura5]

Thank you. Good to know that this is a common occurrence and there is nothing I can do if my buyer doesn't seem to care.

[fbusoni]

@katsura5 

You can get USPS to track down the package at missingmail.usps.com

[kalyoth]

In my experience, until the parcel tracking states return to sender, the seller is still on the hook in terms of a refund request - due to non-delivery/late delivery. USPS is notorious for misdirecting items within it's network. I would suggest you open a case with USPS to locate the parcel.

[katsura5]

The crazy thing is that at one point the tracking system said it was being returned to the seller, but it never was. When it was back at a distribution center near me, it suddenly was shipped back across the country. At a value of 19.50 (glass baking dish), I'm afraid if I reroute it to the new address the customer finally stated in a follow up message or have it returned to me, I will be charged for shipping again. Also I'm not sure I can request the address change and the customer seems to be unwilling to contact USPS.

[wastingtime101]

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@katsura5 wrote:

I'm afraid if I reroute it to the new address the customer finally stated in a follow up message or have it returned to me, I will be charged for shipping again. Also I'm not sure I can request the address change and the customer seems to be unwilling to contact USPS.

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1. If you file a package intercept that will cost approx $20 and you won't get original shipping back.

2. If you file a package intercept you will not be charged return postage on Ground Adv or Priority - it only applies to Media Mail. But you do have to pay the intercept fee if successfully intercepted which, last I checked, was in the $20-ish range.

3. You do not want the package redirected as that will void your seller protections.

Let it play out. The package will either find its way to the buyer, or back to you, or get lost in the crowd. Don't try to intervene.