What is empty boxing?

Empty boxing is returning a box with nothing in it, or with junk inside, and claiming the refund as if the item were there. It works because most refunds go out on the carrier scan or a quick weight check, long before someone opens the box.

It overlaps with FTID. The difference is that with empty boxing the package does arrive at your warehouse, so the dispute is about what was inside rather than whether it was delivered.

Who it hits

Electronics, appliances, luxury goods, jewelry and premium beauty: small, valuable items where the gap between the item and an empty box is worth the effort.

What it costs

The full refund plus the item, both shipping legs, and the time to investigate. When the customer insists they packed the item, many teams refund again to avoid a chargeback.

How to prevent it

• Weigh returns at the dock and compare against the item’s shipped weight.

• Refund high-value returns on warehouse receipt, not on carrier scan.

• Photograph boxes at opening so disputes have evidence.

• Connect returns to one identity so repeat “empty box” claims link up across accounts.

FAQ

How is empty boxing different from FTID?

With empty boxing the box reaches you, just without the item. With FTID the label is manipulated so tracking shows a delivery even though nothing you can match to the order arrives.

Do weight checks stop it?

They help, but abusers weigh boxes down with junk to match. Weight works best combined with the customer’s history and the item’s value.