Delayed Delivery Inquiry
The estimated delivery date has passed, and the tracking status hasn't updated in several days. The customer contacts customer service to inquire about the delay.
Dialogue
Listen and follow along with the conversation
Vocabulary
Essential words and phrases from the dialogue
order number
A unique code or ID given to your purchase when you buy something online, used to track it.
estimated delivery date
The expected date when your package should arrive, based on the seller's prediction.
tracking status
The current information about where your package is during shipping, updated online.
in transit
A shipping term meaning the package is on its way but not yet delivered.
delay
When something takes longer than expected, like a package arriving late.
investigation
An official check or inquiry to find out what happened to a lost or delayed item.
shipping carrier
The company responsible for delivering packages, like UPS or FedEx.
frustration
A feeling of annoyance or disappointment when things don't go as planned.
Key Sentences
Important phrases to remember and practice
Hi, I'm calling about an online order.
This is a polite way to start a phone call explaining the purpose. Use it when contacting customer service for shopping issues. 'Calling about' means inquiring regarding something.
Could you please provide your order number so I can look up your details?
A polite request for information, using 'could you please' for courtesy. 'Look up' means to search for in a database. Useful for service reps needing customer info.
The tracking status hasn't updated in three days, and it just says 'in transit'.
Describes a problem with shipping updates using present perfect 'hasn't updated' for ongoing situations. Helpful for explaining delays clearly.
I understand your frustration.
Shows empathy in customer service. 'Understand' expresses sympathy. Use it to calm upset customers and build rapport.
What I can do is open an investigation with the shipping carrier.
Explains next steps using 'what I can do is' to offer solutions. 'Open an investigation' means starting a formal check. Practical for handling complaints.
We'll reach out to you via email or phone as soon as we have an update.
'Reach out' means to contact someone. 'As soon as' shows immediacy. This promises follow-up, useful in service dialogues.
Is there anything else I can assist you with today?
A standard closing question in customer service to check for more needs. 'Assist you with' means help. Use it to end calls politely.