Amazon Flex Driver Dilemma

Summary

The user, an Amazon Flex driver, failed to return undelivered packages due to a flat tire. The user opened the packages to prevent theft while staying in a hotel. The user has been contacted by Amazons loss prevention but has not yet returned the items. The user is concerned about potential legal consequences, including felony charges for opening mail. The user is advised to consult with an attorney to understand their rights and potential liabilities.

Full Conversation

I am an amazon flex driver and failed to return packages I couldn’t deliver to back to the warehouse. Now loss prevention is calling me but I still have all the stuff. I opened the packages so I could put the stuff in my trunk and it didn’t get stolen overnight but then realized now I wouldn’t be able to return the stuff
What state are you located in, ****? This will help me provide the most accurate information regarding your situation.
idaho
What was the reason you couldn't deliver the packages back to the warehouse?
I had a flat tire and needed to wait until my tire got replaced. I was staying in a hotel and didn’t want to leave the packages in plain view in my car so I removed the packaging so everything would fit in the trunk
Did you inform Amazon or the warehouse about the situation and your inability to return the packages on time?
no
What is the content of the call from loss prevention? Have they mentioned any legal action against you?
they haven’t mentioned any legal action yet. I got a voicemail yesterday from a loss prevention specialist that they were calling to see what happened to those packages. They are calling me back today
Did you communicate with Amazon about opening the packages and your intention to return them once your tire was replaced?
no I was worried opening the packages was a felony so I could have returned them a few days ago but got nervous
Did you have any intention to use or sell the items from the packages?
no
What is the total value of the items in the packages?
probably $* max
What is the exact content of the packages?
Random stuff like a book, pet shampoo, a body cam, batteries, toothbrushes, stuff like that. There were about * packages
What was the date of the incident and when were you supposed to return the packages?
*/* and I was supposed to return them */* by * am
What is the current status of the packages? Are they still with you or have you managed to return them to Amazon?
i still have all the content that was in the packages but not the packaging they were in
Did you try to contact Amazon or the warehouse after receiving the call from the loss prevention specialist?
No because he said he’d call me back today
What is your plan when the loss prevention specialist calls you back today?
I don’t know
What is your plan for returning the items to Amazon?
I want to return the items if I still can
What is the policy of Amazon Flex regarding the return of undelivered packages?
You can get banned from amazon flex if you fail to return packages to the warehouse. They can also contact local police to prosecute
What is your plan for explaining the situation to the loss prevention specialist when they call you back?
To tell him I was worried about the packages being left in my car so I removed everything from the packaging so it would all fit in my trunk. Then after I did that I wasn’t sure how I could return the packages
Have you considered seeking legal advice before speaking with the loss prevention specialist? It's important to understand your rights and potential liabilities in this situation.
yes
What is the exact message you received from the loss prevention specialist?
The message said: My name is Matt I work Loss Prevention at Amazon. I just tried to call you and got no answer so I left a voicemail. I am trying to get ahold of you about a route you picked up out of DID2 on */*/*. I will try to call you again tomorrow afternoon. If there is a better time of day to reach you just let me know.
What is your plan for returning the items to Amazon now that the original packaging is not available?

In Idaho, opening someone else's mail is considered a felony if done with malicious intent. However, your intent seems to be to protect the items.
My plan is to see what the loss prevention specialist says
What is your plan if the loss prevention specialist insists on legal action due to the opened packages?
I will get a lawyer and hope for the best
What is your current employment status with Amazon Flex?
I’m currently an independent contractor
What is your understanding of the contract you signed with Amazon Flex regarding handling of undelivered packages?
I didn’t read the terms
What is your plan to familiarize yourself with the terms of your contract with Amazon Flex?
Should I find it and read it?
Yes, it's crucial to understand the terms of your contract. It will help you know your rights and obligations as an Amazon Flex driver.
ok
What is the exact wording of the contract regarding the handling and return of undelivered packages?
It says “your eligibility to deliver with amazon flex may be impacted if you repeatedly fail to return undelivered packages”
Did you sign any agreement with Amazon Flex regarding the handling of undelivered packages?
I don’t remember
Do you have access to any documents or emails that might contain the agreement or terms you agreed to when you started with Amazon Flex?
No
What is your plan if Amazon Flex decides to terminate your contract due to this incident?
I will be okay with that. I am just hoping for no legal action
What is your plan if the loss prevention specialist insists on legal action due to the opened packages?
what should my plan be?
Have you considered consulting with a local attorney to discuss your situation and potential defenses?
should I wait until I’m charged?
It's generally advisable to consult with an attorney as soon as possible, especially if you anticipate potential legal issues. They can guide you on how to handle the situation.