The phrase refers to instances where items purchased on the e-commerce platform are not delivered by the estimated date provided at the time of order. These postponements can range from a few hours to several days, and can affect various product categories and geographical locations. As an illustration, a customer ordering a book with a promised arrival date of January 15th, 2024, might experience a delay, receiving the book on January 18th instead.
The occurrence of delayed deliveries has significance for both consumers and the company itself. For shoppers, it can disrupt plans, cause frustration, and necessitate alternative purchasing solutions. For the platform, frequent instances of late arrivals can negatively impact customer satisfaction, brand loyalty, and overall sales. Historically, fluctuations in on-time delivery rates have been influenced by factors such as seasonal demand spikes, weather events, and logistical challenges.