Amazon Hub Counter: How Does It Work?

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Launched in 2019 in the U.S., the Amazon Hub Counter is still a relatively new feature offered by Amazon. As technology advances, so must we. Here is quick rundown of what you need to know before using an Amazon Hub.

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Amazon’s new Hub feature is an amazing invention, but in order for us to enjoy it, we must first understand it. As a small business seller on Amazon myself, I think it is a great option for my customers to consider when receiving shipments from Amazon.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll learn:

Here is all you need to know about the Amazon Hub Counter

What is Amazon Hub Counter?

amazon hub code — Image Source: @talkingretail.com

Most of us are familiar with Amazon leaving our packages at the front door, however, what do you do if you need it delivered somewhere else at a specific time? That is where Amazon Hub comes in.

“Instead of having a package delivered to your home or business address, you can select an Amazon hub location. Then, you can pick up your package at a time that suits you.”
Amazon

This new Amazon feature allows you to choose a hub close to you, and a time for pickup with ease. There are numerous hubs spread throughout the country for your convenience. These counters are serviced by employees that are there to help.

You may find an Amazon Hub Counter in your local,

Post Office
Airport
Stop-N-Shop
Wal-Mart
Etc.

Just search, “Amazon Hub Counter near me,” and the nearest location should pop up!

Pros & Cons of the Amazon Hub Counter

One of the single most mentioned Pros of the Amazon Hub experience by users, is the safe keeping aspect of it. With a rise in package delivery over the past 10 years, porch pirate incidents have risen as well. So, if you are having or have had trouble in the past with package thieves I recommend utilizing the hub.

Amazon Hub Locker vs Counter

If you live in apartments or the city area, you may be familiar with the Amazon Hub Locker. If not, you may ask what’s an amazon hub locker? It is important to know the difference so you are not blindsided when you go to pick up your package.

Amazon Hub Locker:

This is a self service locker. Meaning when you go to pick it up there will be no one to assist you. Just follow this simple 3 step system.

3 Step Pickup:

Locate your Amazon Hub code in the order details section of your Amazon app OR in your email.
Type in your 6-digit code into the touchscreen pad on the lockers
Wait for the corresponding locker to pop open revealing your package

NOTE: Sometimes Amazon will deliver your package to a locker without your request if you live in an apartment complex with lockers already in your mail room. Otherwise, the location will be chosen by you.

Amazon Hub Counter:

The counter is serviced by an employee that will assist you. Much like a storefront, they are there to locate and hand over your order for you. This is great if you enjoy the in-person customer service experience.

Here is what you should expect at the Amazon Hub Counter:

Amazon will provide you with a barcode to show the staff
Staff will scan your barcode to verify your order
Staff will retrieve the correct package and hand it over to you

How do I set up Amazon Hub Counter?

You’ve decided to give the hub a try? Great! You’ll want to start by finding hub locations near you.

1. You can search for a hub near you HERE. This is what you should see when you click the link:

2. Type in an address nearby your preferred pickup location. Make sure you double check whether it says “locker” or “counter.”

3. When you find an Amazon hub location perfect for you, click the yellow “Add to address book” button to save it in your Amazon address book. When you are ready to checkout, you can click this address as the delivery location!

how to get amazon hub code — Image source: @amazon

Amazon Hub Returns

Yes, you can make returns with the Amazon Hub! It makes returning much easier than going to the post office. Most times, you will be provided with returning materials by Amazon if needed. After packaging up your return here is what do to next:

Amazon Hub Return Process:

Choose your drop off location (counter or locker)
- If you chose locker – a 6-digit code will be given to you to place your return package in a slot.
- If you chose counter – a QR code will be given to you for the counter attendant to scan.
Arrive at the drop off location and follow the instructions that the attendant or locker touch screen give to you.

NOTE: Additional packaging supplies is not available at Amazon Hub lockers or counters. This needs to be provided by you or by the Amazon seller in which you are returning to.

Other Helpful Resources for Amazon Hub Counter

I can’t let you go so soon without some additional helpful knowledge. Here’s are a few important things to keep in mind when planning to use the Amazon Hub:

via GIPHY

Amazon Hub Hours
- Most counters operate between the hours of the retail store that they reside in.
  - For Example: If you use the counter in your local Barnes & Noble the counter will operate the same hours as the Barnes & Noble.
- The lockers claim to operate 24/7. However, this is dependent on where your lockers are located. If your mail room closes at a certain time, the lockers will also be unavailable to you.

Amazon Hub Max Hold
- When you deliver to an Amazon Hub locker, your package will only be held for 3 business days. At that time your package may be set in the office of the building or it will be sent back to Amazon, and you will receive a full refund.
- When you deliver to an Amazon Hub Counter, your package will be held for up to 14 days.
Not Guaranteed
- Your package may be delivered to a locker without you requesting it, however, this does not mean ALL Amazon packages you receive will be delivered to a locker.

With this information, I hope you are able to better understand Amazon’s new hub system and get great use out of it. I personally love it and always recommend it to my customers.