Tracking says delivered, but the package isn't here

It happens more often than it should, and most of these packages turn up within a day.

By Stevie McLane · Updated October 31, 2026

First, check the obvious places

• Behind planters, inside screen doors, garages, side and back doors, and porches of neighboring units.
• Your mailbox or the building's parcel lockers, mailroom or front desk.
• Neighbors: drivers sometimes leave packages next door when it seems safer.
• The delivery photo, if the carrier took one. It shows exactly where it was left, and sometimes reveals the wrong house.

Why it says delivered when it isn't

• Scanned early: drivers sometimes scan a few stops ahead. The package arrives later the same day.
• Wrong address: a similar house number or a neighboring street.
• Left with someone: a family member, building staff or a neighbor signed for it.
• Theft: porch theft is real, especially in the weeks before holidays.

How long to wait

Give it until the end of the next business day. A large share of "delivered but missing" packages appear by then, especially early scans.

Who to contact

1. The seller or store first. They're the carrier's customer, so they can file a claim, and most stores will reship or refund. Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, Etsy and Depop have a "item didn't arrive" option on the order.
2. The carrier, if the seller asks you to or you shipped it yourself. USPS lets you start a search after seven days; UPS and FedEx accept missing-package reports through their websites.
3. Your bank, as a last resort, if a seller refuses to help with a paid order.

Next time

Turn on alerts for your packages so you know the moment something is delivered, and consider a pickup point, locker or delivery instructions for busy weeks.