Have you ever stopped and wondered who delivers all of those Amazon packages to your door? Amazon relies on an intricate network of delivery partners to get packages to their destinations.
In this post, I’ll take a closer look at Amazon logistics, package delivery partners, and what that means for online shoppers!
Who Delivers Amazon Logistics In [currentyear]?
Amazon logistics depends on company vehicles and a broad network of other carriers to get packages to customers quickly in [currentyear]. Depending on the size of the box, orders may be delivered by third-party carriers like DHL, FedEx, and USPS. Over time, Amazon has developed several innovations in delivery, like using planes, drones, and self-driving vehicles.
To learn more about the innovative ways Amazon logistics delivers an order, keep reading!
What Is Amazon Logistics?
Amazon logistics is the process of Amazon transporting and delivering orders to customers, including everything from packaging and shipping to tracking and customer service.
As you can imagine, to make sure that orders arrive on time and in good condition, Amazon has developed a sophisticated logistics network.
Moreover, this network includes Amazon warehouses, sorting centers, delivery stations, and trucks. In some cases, Amazon also uses third-party logistics providers (3PLs).
That said, these are companies that specialize in transportation and warehousing. For example, Amazon works with several different 3PLs, including USPS, UPS, FedEx, and DHL.
How Does Amazon Logistics Work?
When a customer places an order on Amazon, it goes through a complex process before it arrives at their doorstep. With that, here’s a brief overview of how Amazon logistics works:
1. Amazon Warehouses
Amazon has a network of more than 175 fulfillment centers around the world. So, when an order is placed, it is routed to the closest fulfillment center.
2. Picking And Packing
Once an order arrives at a fulfillment center, it is assigned to a picker. Then, the picker uses a handheld device to locate the items in the warehouse.
Finally, they place the items in a box or bag and prepare them for shipping.
3. Shipping
In most cases, Amazon uses its fleet of trucks and planes to transport orders. However, specific orders may also be shipped via UPS, FedEx, USPS, or other carriers.
4. Tracking
Amazon uses various tracking methods to ensure that orders are delivered on time, including GPS tracking, barcodes, and RFID tags.
5. Customer service
If there are any problems with an order, Amazon’s customer service team will work to resolve the issue.
For example, this may involve contacting the carrier or arranging for a replacement item to be sent.
What Percentage Of Amazon Deliveries Are Handled Directly By Amazon?
By the end of 2020, Amazon delivered about 67% of what it sells directly to customers, up from roughly 50% in 2019.
Therefore, this means that if you place an order through Amazon, there’s a good chance that an Amazon employee or contractor will deliver your package.
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that this number can vary depending on factors like the size and weight of your order and your location.
So, if you’re curious about how your particular order will be delivered, it’s always best to check with Amazon directly.
What Is Amazon’s Logistics Network?
Amazon’s Cargo Airline
One crucial part of Amazon’s logistics network is its cargo airline, which the company uses to transport packages from fulfillment centers worldwide to major hubs.
Further, this allows Amazon to quickly and efficiently move products to customers as needed.
In addition, the cargo airline helps Amazon keep shipping costs low by reducing reliance on outside delivery services like UPS and FedEx.
Amazon Underground Deliveries
One of the newest innovations in Amazon’s logistics network is its use of drone technology.
Known as “Underground Deliveries,” these drones are designed to quickly and safely transport packages from Amazon warehouses to local customers.
Unlike traditional delivery services, these drones operate underground, out of sight of drivers and customers.
That said, this helps ensure that packages are delivered quickly and securely without unnecessary delays or interruptions.
Parachute Deliveries
An alternative to Underground Deliveries is the Parachute Delivery program.
With this program, large packages are delivered by parachute using high-altitude balloons directly to customers’ doorsteps, reducing the risk of damage during transport and ensuring quick and reliable delivery.
Self-Driving Vehicles
Finally, Amazon has begun using self-driving vehicles – automated cars and trucks capable of quickly delivering packages directly to customers’ doorsteps.
Further, these vehicles are equipped with technologies to improve safety and efficiency, including cameras and sensors to detect obstacles and communicate with other vehicles in real-time.
While still in its early stages, it seems likely that self-driving vehicles will play an increasingly important role in Amazon’s logistics network in the years ahead.
What Other Carriers Deliver Amazon Packages?
USPS
One of the most common carriers used by Amazon, particularly for smaller items, is the United States Postal Service.
UPS
UPS is another major carrier that delivers Amazon packages, typically larger items.
FedEx
FedEx is also a popular carrier for Amazon deliveries, especially for orders that need to be delivered quickly.
Regional Carriers
In addition to these carriers, Amazon works with smaller regional carriers to ensure its customers receive their orders.
How Do Shoppers Track An Amazon Package From A Third-Party Carrier?
There are a few different ways that shoppers can track an Amazon package from third-party carriers.
First, they can sign in to their Amazon account and check the order history for the package in question.
That said, this will typically include information like the delivery date and tracking number, which can be used to track the package on third-party courier websites or apps.
In some cases, shoppers may also contact Amazon customer support directly to get more information about a package being delivered.
How Long Does It Take Amazon Logistics To Deliver Orders When Using Other Carriers?
Delivery times for an Amazon order can vary depending on several factors, such as the size and weight of the order, the shipping method used, and the customer’s location.
However, Amazon typically promises to deliver most orders within three to five business days when using other carriers.
So, if you’re wondering how long it will take for your Amazon order to arrive, this is generally a reasonable estimate.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on whether or not Amazon delivers to hotels, does Amazon delivers to the Philippines, and Amazon warehouse hiring process.
Conclusion
Amazon has a vast logistics network that ensures speedy and accurate delivery of products to customers worldwide.
Whether using innovative methods like self-driving cars, parachutes, drones, or partnering with third-party carriers, Amazon is always looking for better ways to get products into customers’ hands.
And now, with Amazon Flex, anyone 21 and older can be a part of the delivery process. What will Amazon Logistics think of next?
