Out for Delivery
Also known as: OFD, On Vehicle for Delivery, With Delivery Courier
Definition
“Out for delivery” means your package has left the local delivery facility, is on a truck or with a carrier, and should arrive today. It’s the final status before “delivered”—your package is close!
What “Out for Delivery” Means
When you see this status:
- Package is on a delivery vehicle
- It’s scheduled for delivery today
- Driver has it as part of their route
- Delivery typically happens within hours
Typical Delivery Windows
| Carrier | Residential | Business |
|---|---|---|
| USPS | 8am - 8pm | 8am - 5pm |
| UPS | 9am - 7pm | 9am - 5pm |
| FedEx Ground | 8am - 8pm | 8am - 5pm |
| FedEx Express | By committed time | By committed time |
| Amazon | 6am - 10pm | Varies |
Note: Exact times vary by location and route.
Why Delivery Might Not Happen Today
Even with “out for delivery” status:
Common Delays
- Heavy delivery volume - Driver runs out of time
- Access issues - Gated community, locked building
- Weather - Safety concerns stop deliveries
- Address problems - Can’t find location
- Business closed - After-hours arrival
What Happens Next
- Package returns to facility
- Reattempted next business day
- Status updates to “delivery attempted”
Tracking After “Out for Delivery”
| Next Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Delivered | Successfully delivered |
| Delivery Attempted | No one available, will retry |
| Delivery Exception | Issue preventing delivery |
| Returned to Facility | Couldn’t deliver today |
What You Can Do
Before delivery:
- Ensure someone is home (if signature required)
- Leave delivery instructions
- Provide gate codes or building access
- Sign up for delivery notifications
If “out for delivery” all day:
- Wait until end of delivery window
- Contact carrier after 8pm (most areas)
- Check with neighbors or building office
- Look for delivery attempt notice
Delivery Notifications
Set up alerts to know when delivery is near:
- USPS Informed Delivery - Free email/app notifications
- UPS My Choice - Delivery window estimates
- FedEx Delivery Manager - Real-time updates
- Carrier apps - Push notifications
For E-commerce Sellers
When customers see “out for delivery”:
- Delivery usually happens within hours
- If no update by evening, ask them to check surroundings
- Most “out for delivery” packages deliver same day
- Next-day delivery attempt is standard if missed
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