The practice of handing off a package from one delivery service to another, specifically within the context of Amazon’s logistics network, describes a process where an item initially managed by Amazon’s internal delivery system, or a contracted carrier, is then entrusted to a different carrier for the final stage of its journey to the customer. A common instance of this occurs when a package is transported long distances by Amazon’s logistics and subsequently handed over to the United States Postal Service (USPS) for last-mile delivery to a residential address.
This transfer model offers several strategic advantages, including optimized cost-efficiency, particularly in areas where a secondary carrier possesses established infrastructure or better accessibility. It can also expedite deliveries in certain regions or during peak seasons when delivery volumes exceed the capacity of a single provider. Historically, this strategy has enabled broader geographical reach and allowed Amazon to leverage the specialized capabilities of various delivery partners, improving overall logistical performance and customer satisfaction.