So, you’ve been patiently waiting for your long-awaiting parcel to arrive. The day has finally come, and maybe you’ve even had to work from home for the day so that you can be there to sign for it.
The clock continues to tick, darkness falls, and there is still no sight of your parcel. We’ve all been there – the disbelief and disappointment. You’ve wasted a whole day waiting for it!
After contacting the delivery couriers, you’re faced with even more frustration as they claim it’s already been delivered to your address.
You’re not alone – since the rise of Royal Mail strikes, this happens more often than you think.
So, what’s your next steps? Can you get the police involved? Maybe you have reason to believe you’ve been a victim of crime, and someone has stolen your beloved parcel.
Today, we discover how far the police will take your investigation and what steps you can take to resolve the issue.
What happens when a parcel goes missing
An inconvenience for sure, when a parcel goes missing, the first step is to contact the seller to resolve the matter directly.
Often, if there is reason to believe that your parcel hasn’t been delivered through the fault of the courier, the seller is responsible for sending you another parcel. However, it’s advised that you also check with the courier – they may be running late or have had to reschedule the delivery.
If the seller fails to deliver your goods within 30-days, under the Consumer Rights Act, you are entitled to a full refund of your money.
However, if you have reason to believe that you have been a victim of theft, there are steps you can take to resolve the matter with your local police department.
It’s important to note that, unless you have evidence of theft or crime, the police force’s hands are often tied in just how far they can pursue an investigation.
Evidence such as CCTV footage, doorbell footage or if you or a witness have seen someone take your parcel would enable the police to conduct an investigation.
Who is responsible for the parcel
The retailer you bought your item from is responsible for the missing parcel. Your contract is with them and not the courier.
It’s important to note that, although the courier has failed to deliver the parcel, you must engage with the seller to resolve the matter.
What to do if your parcel goes missing
If your parcel has gone missing, the first thing you must do is contact the seller you purchased from. It’s also important to double check any correspondence from the courier – they may be running late or have had to reschedule your delivery.
Responsible for your goods, the seller has up to 30-days to resolve the matter and ensure you receive your parcel.
It’s worth noting that, if you have instructed the courier to leave your parcel in a safe place such as a garage or behind garden furniture, the responsibility for your missing parcel now lies with you.
However, if the courier leaves your parcel in a safe space without instruction, the responsibility remains with the seller to organise a replacement.
If you believe you have been a victim of theft, you may report the crime to your local police department. Without evidence such as CCTV, doorbell footage, or witnesses, the police have no scope to commence an investigation.
If you do decide to contact the police, be sure to provide them with as much evidence as possible. Perhaps the courier has taken a photo of where they left your parcel or has stated it was left with your neighbour who is now denying it.
When do Police investigate missing parcels
The police will investigate missing parcels if you have sufficient evidence suggesting that you have been a victim of theft or crime.
Without evidence, the police will be unable to assist you in tracing your missing parcel.
We get it, you’ve wasted time contacting couriers, the seller, and possibly the police – it is frustrating and one of life’s many inconveniences. There is light at the end of the tunnel though – protected by the Consumer Rights Act, you are entitled to receive a full refund usually after 30-days if you have not received your goods.
