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What to Do When an Online Order Is Delayed

Determine whether a shipment is still moving and when to contact the seller.

Quick Answer

Review official tracking and the promised delivery window, then contact the seller if the shipment exceeds its stated timeframe or tracking stops updating.

Step by Step

  1. Use the merchant, marketplace, carrier, bank, or card issuer's official website/app rather than a link in an unexpected email or text.
  2. Review official tracking and the promised delivery window, then contact the seller if the shipment exceeds its stated timeframe or tracking stops updating.
  3. Save receipts, order numbers, tracking details, cancellation notices, and relevant communications.
  4. For unresolved billing or delivery problems, follow the official merchant/payment-provider escalation process and observe any applicable deadlines.

If That Doesn't Work

  • Pending authorizations, merchant billing names, refund timing, and dispute rights vary by merchant, financial institution, payment network, and transaction type.
  • Never send passwords, one-time verification codes, full card credentials, or remote computer access to someone who contacts you unexpectedly about an order or payment.