Let's be real: shipping delays happen. While you can't always control logistics, you can control the customer experience with a clear and thoughtful email. We've got five shipping delay email templates to help you do just that.
Starting with a template means you don't have to stare at a blank page. It ensures you cover all the important details with grace, turning a hiccup into a chance to strengthen your customer relationship.
<template>
Subject: We're sorry — there's a delay with your order [Order Number]
Hi [Customer Name],
We're writing to apologize. There’s an unexpected delay in shipping your recent order, [Order Number], and we wanted to let you know as soon as possible.
Due to [briefly and honestly explain the reason, e.g., a warehouse operations issue or a carrier delay], we now expect your package to ship by [New Shipping Date]. You can expect it to arrive around [New ETA Window]. We are truly sorry for this change in plans and the inconvenience it causes.
We value your business and your trust. If you have any questions or concerns, please reply directly to this email, and we’ll get back to you right away.
Thank you for your patience.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Company Name]
</template>
<template>
Subject: An update on your order [Order Number]
Hi [Customer Name],
We wanted to share a quick update on your order, [Order Number]. It has officially been [mention the new status, e.g., shipped, packed, or processed]!
We expect it to be delivered around [New ETA Window]. If your order has shipped, you can follow its progress with this tracking number: [Tracking Number and Link].
We appreciate your business and can't wait for you to enjoy your purchase. If you have any questions in the meantime, just reply to this email—we're here to help.
All the best,
[Your Name]
[Your Company Name]
</template>
<template>
Subject: Good news! A new delivery date for your order [Order Number]
Hi [Customer Name],
We have an update on your order, [Order Number]. We’ve confirmed a new delivery date and wanted to share it with you right away.
Your package is now scheduled to arrive between [New Delivery Date Window]. We appreciate your patience as we resolved the delay, and everything is now back on track. You can follow its progress right to your door with your tracking link: [Tracking Link].
We’re excited for you to receive your items. If any questions come up, simply reply to this email, and we’ll be happy to help.
Best,
[Your Name]
[Your Company Name]
</template>
<template>
Subject: A little something for your patience with order [Order Number]
Hi [Customer Name],
We’re writing to follow up on your order, [Order Number]. We are very sorry that your shipment is taking longer than expected and sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.
We know waiting is frustrating, so we’d like to offer you [e.g., a 20% discount on your next purchase] as a thank you for your patience. To accept, simply use the code [Discount Code] at checkout on your next order.
Your package is still on its way, and we now expect it to arrive between [New ETA Window]. We’ll send a final confirmation once it’s out for delivery.
Thank you for your understanding.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Company Name]
</template>
<template>
Subject: An important update regarding your order [Order Number]
Hi [Customer Name],
We're writing to inform you about an unforeseen issue affecting your order, [Order Number]. A situation outside of our control, [briefly explain the unexpected event, e.g., a severe weather disruption or a customs hold], has caused a significant delay.
We are monitoring the situation closely and working with our partners to resolve it. At this moment, we don't have a revised delivery date, but we promise to keep you informed as soon as we have a clear update. We understand this is not ideal, and we sincerely apologize for the disruption.
If you have any questions, please reply to this email. We appreciate your patience as we navigate this.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
[Your Company Name]
</template>
Sending shipping delay emails like the ones above is simple with the right tool, and that's what we built Flodesk for. We provide intuitive email marketing tools that help small businesses grow and manage their email lists. You can design, send, and automate your communications without needing any background in coding or graphic design, helping you connect with your audience and support your business goals.
Our platform includes a straightforward email builder, effective automations, and well-designed forms. These features give you everything required for your email marketing, from start to finish. We focus on giving you powerful tools without the steep learning curve, so you can create emails that look good and perform well for your business.
Turning a shipping delay into a moment of connection is about clear, thoughtful communication. Use these templates as your starting point to keep your customers informed and feeling valued.
With Flodesk, you can send well-designed emails that build your brand and manage customer relationships. Get started with Flodesk to see how simple your email marketing can be.
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