How Amazon Delivers Packages: The Complex Journey Behind the Scenes

TLDRAmazon's fulfillment system is complex and convoluted, with packages going through various stages and routes. The process depends on factors such as package size and destination. Amazon uses predictive modeling to stock items closest to potential buyers. Packages are sorted at regional sortation centers before being transported by Amazon Air. Depending on the destination, packages are either delivered by Amazon itself, the USPS, or UPS. Amazon's logistics network poses a threat to traditional delivery companies.

Key insights

🚚Amazon's fulfillment system is more complicated and convoluted than that of other major delivery companies.

📦Amazon's fulfillment centers are split into three categories based on package size: small sortable, large sortable, and large non-sortable.

🏬Amazon uses predictive modeling to put items closest to potential buyers based on their location.

✈️Amazon operates its own cargo planes under the Prime Air brand and has a growing fleet of aircraft.

🚚Depending on the destination, packages are delivered by Amazon, the USPS, or UPS.

Q&A

How does Amazon determine where to stock items?

Amazon uses predictive modeling to put items closest to potential buyers based on their location.

Do all Amazon packages go through their fulfillment centers?

No, about one fourth of sales in the US are fulfilled directly by the seller, not Amazon.

How does Amazon deliver packages in rural areas?

For remote areas, Amazon often relies on USPS or UPS for last-mile delivery.

Are all Amazon packages delivered by Amazon itself?

No, packages can be delivered by Amazon, the USPS, or UPS depending on the destination.

What is Amazon's competitive advantage in logistics?

Amazon's competitive advantage lies in its complex and innovative logistics system, which allows for fast and efficient delivery.

Timestamped Summary

00:23Amazon's fulfillment system is more complicated than that of other major delivery companies.

02:23Amazon's fulfillment centers are split into three categories based on package size.

06:08Amazon uses predictive modeling to put items closest to potential buyers.

09:13Amazon operates its own cargo planes under the Prime Air brand.

13:19For remote areas, Amazon often relies on USPS or UPS for last-mile delivery.

16:40Amazon's competitive advantage lies in its complex and innovative logistics system.

17:42Amazon's rise proves that online is the new main street.

18:47Having a custom email address is equivalent to having a clean and professional store-front.