At delivery creation time, include the undeliverable action configuration in the Drive API request payload; set the action to return the items to the pickup address (the store or dark store) rather than abandoning them at the dropoff location
Specify the return contact details and any special return instructions in the payload so the courier knows the correct return destination and who to notify on arrival
Monitor delivery status webhooks for events indicating a failed delivery attempt (e.g., customer unavailable, failed age verification for alcohol); confirm that the delivery transitions to a return-in-progress status
When the return-completed status event is received, trigger your inventory system to record the returned items and update stock levels accordingly
For alcohol returns, follow any additional regulatory steps required in your jurisdiction (e.g., logging the return reason and verifying the seal is intact before restocking); consult legal counsel on jurisdiction-specific alcohol return requirements
Notify the customer of the failed delivery and the reason; provide options for rescheduling or refund according to your store's policy
Known gotchas
The return-to-store configuration must be set at delivery creation — it cannot be added retroactively once a delivery is in progress; always include the undeliverable action for order types where return is required (e.g., all alcohol orders)
DoorDash Drive charges for return trips in addition to the original delivery fee; factor return delivery costs into your pricing model for order types with elevated non-delivery risk (e.g., alcohol, high-value orders)
Return-completed webhooks confirm the courier has returned to the pickup location but do not confirm item condition or quantity; build a physical inspection step into your receiving workflow for returned orders
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