Embodiments disclosed include methods for controlling the behavior of autonomously navigating delivery robots when items cannot be delivered. Methods can include receiving a request to proceed to a delivery location when a robot is at a first location. Attempting to deliver an item at a delivery location. If the robot determines delivery is successful, it autonomously navigates back to the first location. If the robot determines delivery of the item is not successful, it autonomously navigates to another location different from the first location.