Courier - sign or not on delivery?

November2

Hi, started using couriers earlier in the year and am still trying to work out the best options. I had a few people complain that their parcels were left with neighbours or on the doorstep, so I started using the signed for on delivery service as I realised unless the person was honest they could claim item not received. Problem is I realise that someone has to be in to receive the parcel which isn't always the case and I'm worried some parcels will be returned to me as undelivered (Ebay/Paypal always refund the buyer as 'undelivered item' so I'll finish up out of pocket as I have to refund the item and postage charge). So what is the best method? If I send by the standard Hermes unsigned service is the tracking sufficient for seller protection so I'm covered if the parcel 'goes missing'? or is it still better to use the signed for service? I give Hermes a telephone number (if the buyer gives me one as most ignore my request) or an email address, this is supposed to help the driver with delivery. Also Hermes gives the option of stating where a parcel can be left if the person is out, ie a shed, neighbour. Is that ok with Ebay or a safe thing to do as again the buyer could claim 'not received'. I really don't know what to do for the best. Sorry if I sound untrusting but I've just had a 1st class RM packet returned as uncollected and buyer (who couldn't be bothered to collect from his sorting office) is now demanding a full refund!) Seems I can't win who I choose to post with!!!

forgotmyname

At least if they sign for it your covered with ebay/paypal.

The courier leaves a card more often than royal mail, Well around here anyway.

I ordered a load of stuff over the weekend, amazon and ebay. 2 items arrived yesterday, I expect the rest to arrive tomorrow within minutes of me going out probably.

Sellers always lose. You need to factor these into your prices if your a business or decide if its worth the effort for a private seller.

RFW

You're always going to have some problems with post by whatever means, some are better than others but all have problems.

As for couriers, some have systems in place for rearranging deliveries to suit the buyer, Parcelforce can leave at a post office, some have one hour time slots for delivery.

One thing's for certain, no matter what you do and how well you do it someone will find something to complain about;)