SMS template · Utility
Delivery Attempt Failed SMS Template for Logistics & Courier Companies
A ready-to-adapt SMS message for logistics, courier and transport companies, with placeholders, sample values and compliance notes.
When to Send This Message
Send after an unsuccessful attempt. For logistics, courier and transport companies, this is one of the everyday messages that keeps consignees and shippers informed without a phone call. It works best when it is triggered automatically from your booking, billing or CRM software.
Consignees mainly want to know when a parcel will arrive and how to reschedule, so proactive status messages reduce failed deliveries and support calls.
The SMS Template
India (DLT format)
We tried to deliver parcel {#var#} today but could not reach you. Please choose a new delivery date here: {#var#} - [Business Name]International (plain text)
We tried to deliver parcel {awb} today but could not reach you. Please choose a new delivery date here: {link} - [Business Name]Example with sample values
We tried to deliver parcel BPL123456789 today but could not reach you. Please choose a new delivery date here: https://example.com/r/LC2 - [Business Name]
With these sample values the message is 156 characters in the standard GSM-7 character set, which is 1 SMS part (square brackets count as two characters each). Long links or local-language (Unicode) text increase the count, as Unicode SMS allow 70 characters per single part.
Replace [Business Name] with your registered brand name. Links shown use example.com as a placeholder; use your own domain.
Placeholders and Sample Values
| Placeholder | Meaning | Sample value |
|---|---|---|
| {#var#} | Awb | BPL123456789 |
| {#var#} | Link | https://example.com/r/LC2 |
Filling in each placeholder
- Awb (sample: BPL123456789): Use the same reference format that appears on your invoices, receipts or software, so customers and staff can match it quickly.
- Link (sample: https://example.com/r/LC2): Use your own short, recognisable domain; for SMS in India the domain must be whitelisted on DLT, and each variable is usually limited to 30 characters.
This template has 2 placeholders and a body of 128 characters before values are filled in. Shorter messages cost less and are more likely to be read in full; aim to keep the filled-in message within one or two SMS parts.
Category and Approval
In India this type of message is usually registered as Service Implicit: it relates to an existing transaction or relationship and can be delivered to numbers on the DND registry. It must not contain promotional content.
Compliance Checklist
- Any link uses a domain whitelisted for your header, as TRAI requires for URLs in commercial SMS.
- The brand name in the message matches your registered business or header.
- Promotional versions are sent only within the permitted hours and only to recipients who have not opted out.
Rules to keep in mind for Logistics & Courier Companies
Delivery messages are transactional and should only contain shipment information; promotional content needs separate consent. Consignee phone numbers belong to the shipper's customer relationship and must be used only for delivery purposes.
General guidance, not legal advice. Rules change, so confirm current requirements before launch. See our SMS compliance guide for India.
Tips for Better Results
- Use the customer's name and a reference number so the message is easy to trust and to search for later.
- Send it as close as possible to the event it relates to, such as right after booking or the day before an appointment.
Getting the delivery attempt failed message right
Explain why the delivery failed, such as the address not found or the recipient not available, and offer simple options: reschedule, change the address, or collect from the nearest branch. Say how many attempts remain before the parcel is returned to the sender. A clear message here saves a second failed trip and reduces return costs.
Where this message fits for Logistics & Courier Companies
Businesses choose couriers based on price, coverage, speed and tracking, often after a trial shipment, while recipients judge the service by delivery updates. Missed deliveries and unclear tracking are the main complaints.
Search and sales outreach win business clients; WhatsApp and SMS send tracking and delivery slot updates to recipients; voice IVR handles delivery rescheduling; email sends invoices and reports to clients.
Campaign ideas that pair with this template
- Delivery slot confirmation with rescheduling options
- Proof of delivery messages with photos
- Monthly service reports for business clients
Need this SMS template set up?
We register, submit and connect templates for you, and send test messages before launch.
Questions About This Template
When should a logistics company send the delivery attempt failed message?
Send after an unsuccessful attempt. Automate it from your software where possible so it is never forgotten.
Can I send this SMS in India without DLT registration?
No. Commercial SMS in India must use a header and a content template registered on a DLT platform. Messages that do not match a registered template are blocked by the operator.
Which DLT category should I choose for this delivery attempt failed message?
Usually Service Implicit. The final category depends on your entity type, the consent you hold and your operator's guidelines, and we confirm it during registration.
Can DND Teams set this up for my logistics company?
Yes. We adapt the template to your business, register or submit it, and connect it to your software or our panel. Share your use case on WhatsApp or through the form.
Related Templates
More SMS templates for Logistics & Courier Companies
This message on other channels
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