Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Unclaimed Amazon Packages (2024)

Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Unclaimed Amazon Packages (1)

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Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Unclaimed Amazon Packages (3)

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In the digital age where online shopping reigns supreme, Amazon stands as the colossus of e-commerce. Millions of packages are shipped daily, making their way to eager customers. Unfortunately, some packages never make it to their intended recipient.

Items that aren’t picked up are categorized as unclaimed Amazon packages. Recently, interest in purchasing mystery boxes has surged. However, you should proceed with caution. If you’re tempted to buy one of these packages, read on for some do’s and don’ts.

The Do’s of Buying Unclaimed Amazon Packages

Purchasing unclaimed items can be a thrill. However, there are some do’s to keep in mind when buying Amazon packages:

Research the Seller

Before purchasing unclaimed packages, always check the authenticity of the seller. Whether you’re buying from an online auction, a local seller, or even from a popular social media influencer, a quick search can provide valuable feedback on their reliability and track record.

Set a Budget

It’s easy to get carried away with the excitement of the unknown. Decide on a spending limit and stick to it. Remember, while there’s a chance for profit, there’s also a possibility for disappointment.

Ask for Details

Sellers should be transparent about where the packages came from. Are they truly unclaimed Amazon packages or just a collection of random items? Knowing the origin can help you gauge the potential value and legitimacy of your purchase.

Liquidation, a website that sells unclaimed packages, allows you to pick the company you want to purchase packages from. Choices include Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Wayfair. Some listings let you see what you’re buying before you make a purchase. However, other listings only display images of the boxes, the relevant category, and the price.Shipping can cost as much as $100 depending on the size and weight of the items you buy.

Be Aware of Return Policies

Since your package might be a mystery box, it’s essential to know if the seller has a return or exchange policy in place. Some sellers might offer returns if you’re unsatisfied, while others might have a strict no-return policy.

Open With Care

Once you receive your package, open it cautiously. Although it’s rare, packages can sometimes contain breakable items.

Don’ts of Buying Unclaimed Amazon Packages

It’s great to snag a deal. However, there are some don’ts when it comes to purchasing unclaimed Amazon packages. Here’s what you shouldn’t do:

Don’t Expect a Jackpot

The allure of unclaimed packages is the possibility of striking gold. However, it’s best to adjust your expectations. It’s likely these packages contain everyday items. While there’s a chance you might find something valuable or unique, it’s just as likely you’ll end up with something mundane.

Don’t Assume All Packages Are Legitimate

While many sellers offer genuine unclaimed Amazon packages, some might be selling curated boxes disguised as unclaimed ones. This misleading practice can result in overpaying for items of little value.

Don’t Forget About Safety

Be cautious about packages that contain consumables or personal products. Items such as cosmetics, food, or medications might be expired or unsafe to use. Always check the items’ integrity and expiration dates before using them.

Don’t Get Addicted

The thrill of the unknown can become addictive. As fun as it might be to unravel these mysteries, it’s wise not to make it a frequent habit. Over time, you might end up spending more than you initially intended, with a pile of items you don’t really need.

Buying Unclaimed Amazon Packages

The world of unclaimed Amazon packages offers the thrill of the unexpected. However, like any adventure, there are risks and potential pitfalls. By following these do’s and don’ts, you can navigate this landscape with more confidence, ensuring a safer and potentially rewarding experience. Whether you’re in it for fun, potential profit, or a mix of both, always proceed with caution, do your homework, and keep your expectations in check.

Editor's note: This article was produced via automated technology and then fine-tuned and verified for accuracy by a member of GOBankingRates' editorial team.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Unclaimed Amazon Packages (2024)

FAQs

Is it worth buying Amazon unclaimed packages? ›

The allure of unclaimed packages is the possibility of striking gold. However, it's best to adjust your expectations. It's likely these packages contain everyday items. While there's a chance you might find something valuable or unique, it's just as likely you'll end up with something mundane.

How to buy real unclaimed Amazon packages? ›

Where to Buy Unclaimed Amazon Packages
  1. Look for unclaimed packages on liquidation sites like liquidation.com and govdeal.com.
  2. Search Facebook Marketplace, Poshmark, eBay, and Craigslist for unclaimed packages.
  3. Research sellers on the Better Business Bureau before buying to avoid getting scammed.

Is it true that Amazon sells unclaimed packages? ›

1. Yes, Amazon sells unclaimed packages. 2. Amazon sells unclaimed packages to recover the cost of shipping and to ensure that the package is delivered to the correct recipient.

How to buy pallets of unclaimed mail? ›

GovDeals

If an item is lost or unclaimed for 90 days through the United States Postal Service, it may be auctioned off on GovDeals. This site works with the USPS to claim and sell unclaimed mail. You'll most likely have to pick up whatever you buy though. GovDeals is like eBay for governments.

Is Amazon selling pallets of unclaimed items? ›

Don't fall for these ads offering mystery boxes from Amazon. Amazon ONLY sells to a few distributors by the pallet load. Those distributors then sell them, mostly by pallet but some are sold in smaller lots. You can buy from THOSE DISTRIBUTORS for resale.

How to buy return pallets from Amazon? ›

Amazon provides a liquidation program where sellers can resell the customer-returned products in the auction to make way for new stocks in the warehouse. You can buy Amazon Return Pallets directly through this program or from third-party liquidation companies.

How much does it cost to buy unclaimed packages? ›

On average, you can expect to pay between $1 to $2 for smaller packages, with unclaimed mail that features larger parcels can easily stretch to $5 to $10 a box. However, as we said, the final price is going to be completely unpredictable.

How do unclaimed packages work? ›

Auction or Disposal of Unclaimed Packages

If the rightful owner does not claim a package sent through the USPS, the contents of the package are then sometimes sold by auction. The U.S. Postal Service auctions unclaimed items on GovDeals.com.

How to get a box of Amazon returns? ›

Amazon returns pallets and liquidation boxes cannot be purchased directly from the Amazon marketplace, but can be sourced from a variety of online liquidation stores. These liquidation sites often have unclaimed Amazon packages for sale, giving you the opportunity to purchase merchandise that has never been opened.

Can you throw away Amazon packages? ›

Amazon's mailers can be thrown right into your curbside recycling bin—just like a cardboard box and other paper products.

What happens to uncollected Amazon parcels? ›

If you don't collect your package within three calendar days after delivery. the package is returned to Amazon. For more information about that are returned as undeliverable, visit Undeliverable Packages.

Where is the best place to buy unclaimed packages? ›

5 sites offering unclaimed packages for anyone to buy
  • How does buying unclaimed packages work? $816 billion. ...
  • GovDeals. Head to GovDeals.com to check out stuff from USPS and other government entities. ...
  • eBay. ...
  • Liquidation.com. ...
  • Facebook Marketplace. ...
  • Poshmark. ...
  • Bonus: Unclaimed Baggage. ...
  • Read this before you buy.
Jun 28, 2023

How to buy unclaimed boxes from Amazon? ›

There are a few ways to get your hands on unclaimed Amazon packages:
  1. Auction sites: You can buy them directly in bulk yourself from auction sites mentioned in this article, GovDeals or Liquidation.com.
  2. Online marketplaces: Sites like Poshmark and eBay may have them, so you can try them out if you're feeling adventurous.
Oct 6, 2023

What does the USPS do with lost packages? ›

The Postal Service has its own “lost and found” department in Atlanta called the Mail Recovery Center (MRC), which some may recognize by its older name, the “Dead Letter Office.” The staff at the Mail Recovery Center is dedicated to reuniting lost letters and packages with their recipient or sender.

Is Amazon good with stolen packages? ›

Does Amazon Replace Stolen Packages? The short answer to this question is "most often, yes." Amazon offers a guarantee called "The A to Z Guarantee." This guarantee offers an added level of security for customers making their purchases. The A to Z Guarantee protects purchases sold or fulfilled by third-party sellers.

Does Amazon always refund lost packages? ›

If the seller is unwilling to help, Amazon will get involved with this guarantee. In cases of package theft, however, Amazon A-to-Z Guarantee may not cover you if it can be proven that the package was delivered by the carrier. Then, you'll be needing to consider options through insurance.

Does Amazon pay for lost packages? ›

Amazon will usually replace the merchandise or refund your money if your package is stolen or lost during shipping. I have had the experience, and they refunded my money, as I asked them to do. Amazon has multiple ways to contact them, including through chat on their website.

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